While there’s no denying the beloved and iconic romance of Nightwing and Starfire in the DC Universe, the bond shared between Dick Grayson and Batgirl can never be matched by Kori for one reason. However, whether this bond makes Nightwing and Batgirl the “one true pairing” is up for each fan to decide.

Nightwing #85 by Tom Taylor and Robbi Rodriguez treats fans to a flashback to Dick and Barbara’s days as Robin and Batgirl. In this scene, Barbara unexpectedly arrives at the manor, unbeknownst to her father and Bruce Wayne, to persuade Dick to join her for a patrol as Batgirl and Robin.

Initially hesitant due to fears of Bruce’s disapproval, Dick expresses concern about disappointing Batman. However, Barbara’s response not only puts Dick’s apprehensions to rest but also underscores the unique bond they share.

Robin and Batgirl Bonded Over the Pressure of Living Up to the Expectations of Batman and Commissioner Gordon

When Dick expresses his concern with the statement, “You don’t get it. If Batman found out…“, Barbara swiftly points out her father’s role as the chief of police. Dick concedes to her point. However, true to her compassionate nature, Batgirl doesn’t let the conversation end there. She continues, “Look, we both have some pretty impressive authority figures who will be very disapproving if they catch us.” This exchange highlights that Batgirl and Nightwing share the bond of knowing the pressures of living up to the expectations of their heroic parents and their desire not to disappoint them.

While all teenagers grapple with the pressure of meeting their parents’ expectations, Dick and Barbara arguably face this pressure tenfold, given that their fathers are exceptionally unique individuals regarded by many as the pinnacle of excellence. Consequently, this shared anxiety becomes a significant aspect of their bond, one they navigate together. In contrast, Starfire’s experience differs significantly. Having lost her parents at a young age and subsequently endured enslavement, Kori misses out on this pivotal aspect of adolescence, compounded by the fact that she and Dick didn’t even know each other during this formative period of their lives.

Dick Grayson and Barbara Gordon’s Bond Is Exceptionally Strong Because They Grew-Up Together

In addition to sharing this teenage rite of passage, Nightwing and Batgirl essentially grew up alongside each other. Nightwing #78, the inaugural issue in Tom Taylor’s run, showcases Barbara and Dick interacting as preteens, with Barbara eager to forge a friendship with Dick following an encounter with a school bully. From that moment on, their history together unfolds, with both of them evolving as heroes and individuals in current continuity. While the length of a relationship doesn’t always determine its depth, in Barbara and Dick’s case, it certainly does. Consequently, the relationship between Nightwing and Batgirl holds an advantage.

Nightwing #85 is available now from DC Comics!