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| “ | He came into our lives like a destructive whirlwind-- But the left it in a blaze of hope! We'll never forget him! | „ |
| ~ Bruce about Lance |
| “ | Dead, Stark? Then I'm back to haunt you! | „ |
| ~ Robin in The Brave and the Bold |
Lance Bruner is a fictional character in DC Comics comic books. His first appearance occurred in The Brave and the Bold #83 (May 1969), being conceived by Bob Haney and Neal Adams.
Often considered the 'Jason Todd prototype', Lance Bruner was launched in The Brave and the Bold #83 (Bob Haney, Neal Adams, Petra Scotese and Ben Oda) as an arrogant delinquent for whom Bruce Wayne adopted, after Lance's father died. Bruce would have to resist Lance's constant misdemeanors, from destroying precious artifacts kept at Wayne Manor to faking his own kidnapping.
History[]
Lance Bruner was created by Bob Haney in 1969 with the comic book The Brave and the Bold #83 and is the son (already motherless at age 2) of a good friend of Thomas Wayne's, father of Bruce Wayne, who dies after a accident.
Sliver Age[]
Lance Bruner, the son of the late Professor Bruner, one of Bruce's father's closest friends. Under an agreement drawn up between the two, and signed by both Bruner and Dr. Thomas Wayne, the Wayne family promised to adopt and raise Lance should anything happen to the professor.
Biography[]
Early Life[]
Lance Bruner was born to Mr. Bruner, a teacher, and an unnamed mother. Lance's mother passed away when he was two years old, leaving a maternal absence in his life. Lance's father was a close friend of Dr. Thomas Wayne and made an agreement that, in the event of his death, the Wayne family would adopt and raise Lance. Eventually, Lance's father passed away, leaving him orphaned. At some point, Lance discovered the agreement between his father and the Wayne family and decided to go to Wayne Manor.
Adopted by Bruce Wayne[]
Lance in Wayne Manor with Bruce and Dick
He brought with him a signed agreement between his father and Thomas Wayne, stating that if anything happened to Bruner's father, Thomas would take care of him. With Thomas no longer alive, Bruce Wayne, moved by Lance's story, decided to honor his father's word and adopted Lance.
However, Lance's presence brought trouble to his new family, especially for his adopted brother, Dick, as he continued to be blamed for Lance's mischievous actions, such as stealing money, vandalizing a police officer's motorcycle, and damaging Bruce's new car.
Bruce took Lance with him to a corporate meeting regarding an oil kidnapping case he and Dick were working on. During the meeting, Lance became interested in Grantland Stark, who seemed to be causing trouble for Bruce. Meanwhile, Dick convinced the Teen Titans (Wally, Roy, and Donna) to befriend Lance.
The Titans took Lance to a club to dance, but he did little to impress them, and they grew increasingly wary of him. Lance then approached a "big local gangster" named Milo Manton. Later that night, Bruce received a ransom note ($50,000) for Lance's safe return.
Kid Flash discovers Lance entering a bank
Lance was returned safely and told the story of his kidnapping. The next day, Kid Flash caught Lance entering a bank. Bruce later confronted Lance about a $25 deposit into the blonde's account. Once again, Lance escaped punishment by lying to Bruce, claiming it was money inherited from his father. During their conversation, Charles Hinton from the State Corrections Department arrived to inform Bruce about Lance's troubled past, including his abandonment of the Reformatory and expulsion from Military Academy. Hinton began searching for Lance, but Lance begged Bruce not to let Hinton take him away. Lance confessed to everything he had done, including putting Dick in trouble and orchestrating his own kidnapping. He promised to change, and Bruce agreed to officially adopt him.
For a while, it seemed like Lance had changed, especially as he helped Alfred and donated gifts for his party. However, while Bruce and Dick were out as Batman and Robin, and Alfred was also away, Lance explored the mansion and discovered the Batcave. He realized that Bruce was Batman and Dick was Robin, and he decided to make them pay for humiliating and treating him with condescension.
Lance as Robin surprises Stark
When the trap was sprung, Lance arrived at the tower where the trap was set up to receive his reward. Stark aimed a high-pressure air hose at Batman, but Robin jumped in front, knocking him off the tower. Batman thought Robin was dead, but he survived. Lance then revealed himself to be the one who had sacrificed himself to save Robin, having finally understood true love and respect when he saw Dick sacrifice himself for Bruce. Lance apologized and expressed regret for not being who Bruce wanted him to be before dying in Bruce's arms.
Legacy[]
Ceremony for Lance's passing
Later, the Teen Titans and Bruce held a small ceremony in Lance's memory, placing a bust of him in the Wayne Manor garden, possibly near the grave of Lance's adoptive grandparents, Thomas and Martha Wayne.
Personality[]
Lance Bruner's personality is complex and multifaceted. At his core, Lance is a troubled young man who has experienced loss and hardship, which has shaped his behavior and outlook on life. He is rebellious, often acting out and seeking attention in negative ways. Lance can be impulsive, making decisions without fully considering the consequences. Despite his troubled nature, Lance also shows moments of vulnerability and a desire for connection. He craves acceptance and approval, especially from figures like Bruce Wayne and Dick Grayson. Lance is capable of showing loyalty and affection, particularly towards those who show him kindness and understanding.
One of Lance's defining traits is his ability to adapt and survive in difficult situations. He is resourceful and cunning, often finding ways to get what he wants or escape from trouble. However, this adaptability can also lead him to make questionable choices, especially when he feels backed into a corner. Overall, Lance's personality is a mix of troubled past, impulsive behavior, and a deep-seated desire for acceptance and belonging. His journey is one of redemption and self-discovery, as he tries to overcome his troubled past and find his place in the world.
Appearance[]
Lance has blond hair and blue eyes. Like Dick, he is usually seen wearing preppy clothes. Lance wore his hair slicked to the side.
Relationships[]
Bruce Wayne[]
The relationship between Lance Bruner and his adopted father, Bruce Wayne is complex and goes through several phases. Initially, Bruce decides to honor his father's word by adopting Lance after his father's death. Bruce tries to be a mentor and father figure to Lance, but Lance's problematic actions, such as stealing and lying, cause tension between them. However, Bruce also sees potential in Lance and believes he can change. He gives Lance several chances and tries to help him overcome his issues. Bruce shows genuine concern for Lance's well-being, even when he makes mistakes.
However, Lance's discovery of Batman and Robin's identities creates a rift in their relationship. Lance uses this information to try to get revenge on Bruce and Dick, which puts a strain on his relationship with Bruce. In the end, despite the difficulties, Bruce mourns Lance's death and acknowledges that he was a young man who needed more chances to change. Lance's death seems to have impacted Bruce, leading him to reflect on the importance of giving people opportunities and on his role as a mentor and adopted father.
Alfred Pennyworth[]
The relationship between Lance Bruner and Alfred Pennyworth is initially cordial, with Alfred treating Lance with kindness and respect. Alfred tries to be a positive influence on Lance, offering guidance and support in the absence of his father. However, Lance's troubled behavior causes strain in his relationship with Alfred. Lance's actions, such as stealing and causing trouble in the Wayne Manor, test Alfred's patience and understanding. Despite this, Alfred continues to care for Lance and tries to help him see the error of his ways.
When Lance discovers the identities of Batman and Robin, his relationship with Alfred becomes more complicated. Lance's betrayal of their trust deeply hurts Alfred, who sees it as a betrayal of the family that has taken Lance in. Despite this, Alfred remains compassionate and understanding, recognizing that Lance is a troubled young man in need of guidance and support. Overall, Alfred's relationship with Lance is characterized by a mix of kindness, patience, and disappointment, as Alfred tries to help Lance navigate his troubled past and find redemption.
Dick Grayson[]
The relationship between Lance Bruner and his adopted brother, Dick Grayson, is strained from the start, as Lance's problematic behavior often leads to Dick being blamed for his actions. Dick, as Robin, tries to guide Lance and steer him in the right direction, but Lance's rebellious nature and desire for attention often put him at odds with Dick.
Despite their differences, Dick tries to understand Lance and sees potential in him, much like Bruce does. Dick's relationship with Lance becomes more complicated when Lance discovers the identities of Batman and Robin. Lance's betrayal deeply affects Dick, as he feels responsible for not being able to prevent Lance from using this information against them. However, Dick also recognizes that Lance is troubled and in need of guidance. He tries to reach out to Lance, even convincing the Teen Titans to give him a chance. Dick's efforts to help Lance ultimately lead to Lance sacrificing himself to save Dick, which deeply impacts Dick and reinforces his belief in redemption and second chances.
Wally West[]
The relationship between Lance Bruner and Wally West (Kid Flash) is initially strained, as Lance's troubled behavior and actions cause friction between them. Wally is wary of Lance, especially after he discovers Lance's true intentions and the extent of his manipulations. However, as the story progresses, Wally begins to see a different side of Lance. He recognizes Lance's troubled past and the reasons behind his behavior, which leads to a more empathetic view of him. Wally tries to understand Lance and offers him a chance to change, much like he would with any troubled individual.
Despite their initial differences, Wally and Lance develop a somewhat reluctant camaraderie. Wally sees potential in Lance and believes that he can change for the better. Lance, in turn, starts to respect Wally and sees him as a friend and ally. Overall, the relationship between Lance and Wally is characterized by a mix of distrust, empathy, and reluctant friendship. They both learn from each other and grow throughout the story, ultimately forming a bond based on mutual respect and understanding.
Roy Harper[]
The relationship between Lance Bruner and Roy Harper is initially one of mistrust and conflict. Roy is wary of Lance's troubled past and his manipulative tendencies, which causes tension between them. Roy sees Lance as a potential threat and keeps his guard up around him. However, as the story progresses, Roy starts to see a different side of Lance. He recognizes that Lance is a troubled young man who has experienced loss and hardship, much like himself. Roy begins to empathize with Lance and tries to understand the reasons behind his behavior.
Despite their initial differences, Roy and Lance develop a tentative friendship. Roy sees potential in Lance and believes that he can change for the better. Lance, in turn, starts to respect Roy and sees him as a mentor figure. Overall, the relationship between Lance and Roy is characterized by a mix of conflict, empathy, and friendship. They both learn from each other and grow throughout the story, ultimately forming a bond based on mutual respect and understanding.
Donna Troy[]
The relationship between Lance Bruner and Donna Troy is one of initial misunderstanding and conflict. Donna, like the other Titans, is wary of Lance due to his troubled behavior and past actions. She sees him as a disruptive influence and is skeptical of his intentions. However, as the story progresses, Donna begins to see a different side of Lance. She realizes that he is a troubled young man who is struggling to find his place in the world. Donna starts to empathize with Lance and tries to understand the reasons behind his behavior.
Despite their initial differences, Donna and Lance develop a tentative friendship. Donna sees potential in Lance and believes that he can change for the better. Lance, in turn, starts to respect Donna and sees her as a confidante and ally. Overall, the relationship between Lance and Donna is characterized by a mix of conflict, empathy, and friendship. They both learn from each other and grow throughout the story, ultimately forming a bond based on mutual respect and understanding.
Jason Todd[]
We don't know about the relationship between Lance Bruner and Jason Todd due to the fact that Lance died before Jason was officially adopted by Bruce, we also don't know what Jason thinks of Lance, since Jason knows that Lance existed due to the fact that he has a bust of Lance's face from the garden of Wayne Manor.
Love-Interests[]
Other Media[]
Television[]
- In the TV series Gotham Knights, the biological mother of the protagonist, Turner Hayes, is called Emma Brunner, it is not known whether this was a reference to Lance Bruner or just a coincidence.
Powers and Abilities[]
- Intelligence: As the son of a teacher, Lance is assumed to have remarkable intelligence.
- Fencer: Lance has shown to be skilled enough to fight using swords.
- Acrobatics: As Robin, Lance has shown to have balance, agility and coordination.
- Aviation: Lance is an individual who shows good knowledge about aviation.
Paraphernalia[]
- Robin Uniform: After taking up the mantle of Robin, Lance took the uniform that Dick Grayson wore as Robin. It includes a cloth tunic, which offered limited protection against bullets and blunt attacks, a yellow cape, green shorts, and elf boots. His utility belt contained batboomerangs, hooks, gas clusters and various other paraphernalia.
Quotes[]
| “ | Dad was killed... Mr. Wayne, not long ago... In a accident... Right before my eyes! It was awful! I'm an orphan now..! Dad's last words were... "Go to Bruce Wayne... he'll take care of you!" And I'm really sorry about those doodads I busted! | „ |
| ~ Lance to Bruce. |
| “ | I never dreamed they were valuable! Guess I was just nervous about meeting my new family...! | „ |
| ~ Lance to Bruce. |
| “ | Big shockeroo... huh, Bruce! Yeah, had to even things up for what I'd done... putting the finger on you and Dick... playing ball witha fink like Stark... | „ |
| ~ Lance to Bruce. |
| “ | When I saw him sacrifice himself for you... I knew at last what real love... real respect was! It made me jealous! I had to prove I wasn't all rotten... to myself... and you..! | „ |
| ~ Lance to Bruce. |
| “ | Don't worry Robin's okay... his cape saved him... from serious injury... fell into my boat back there... I switched clothes... Batman... Bruce... hold my hand... wish I could've been kind of guy you wanted... so long... | „ |
| ~ Lance last words to Bruce. |
Trivia[]
- Bruce notes on page 5 that Lance is the son of his father's closest friend, Dr. Bruner. Despite this, no name of Lance's father is mentioned.
- Lance mentions that he saw his father die in an accident. He makes no mention of how he died. However, this is later opposed by the Representative of the State Department of Corrections - but it was not mentioned whether it was in fact true that he saw his father die, or whether he was making it up. It was not mentioned in his confessions to Bruce.
- On page 6, Bruce mentions to Dick in another room that he remembers Lance as a baby in Dr. Bruner's arms, indicating that Lance was born before Bruce's parents died.
- It is noted that Lance was expelled from the Reform School and the Military Academy. He was probably also expelled from public school and/or private school.
- It is also noted that Lance has a juvenile record.
- Lance tells Bruce that his mother died when he was two and that his father was always too busy for him.
- It is also noted that he never had anyone when he was growing up to show him right from wrong.
- It was never stated whether he revealed who Batman and Robin were; however, from the context of the question, it seemed that although he said he knew who they really were, he still didn't reveal who they were.
- It's often said that Lance is pre-Jason Todd.
- He is also considered pre-Damian Wayne.
External Links[]
- Lance Bruner on the DC Database Wiki
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