DC Comics has at last given us a concrete backstory for the Joker, confirming that his origins, as depicted in The Killing Joke, are now considered canon. The intriguing plot twist involving Red Mask creating three Joker copies is finally being resolved, bringing closure to a storyline that has been left hanging for quite some time. Although there's always the possibility of another unexpected turn, for now, the mystery surrounding the Joker's origin can find some peace. You can get your hands on Batman #142 starting from February 6th. Check out this image of the Joker's super-sense of laughter: 
A new storyline in Batman #142 finally reveals the true origin story of the Joker. In this issue, a flash-forward scene shows an elderly Bruce examining Joker's body and finding a pill made from the same material as the Red Hood's helmet. This raises questions about how it connects Red Mask the creation of three Joker duplicates. Flashbacks to The Killing Joke that instead of one Joker, three emerged from the chemical bath that night, with one mistakenly believing a random woman to be his wife.
For decades, fans have been intrigued by the surrounding the Joker's origins. While there have been various potential backstories explored, The Killing Joke has been considered the closest to a definitive origin for this iconic Batman antagonist. It portrays him as a failed stand-up comedian who undergoes tragic events before transforming into the Harlequin of Hate. However, even within that story, it is revealed that he doesn't fully remember his past life and prefers it to remain ambiguous like "multiple choice". Despite other interpretations being explored by different creators over time, The Killing Joke remains widely popular as Joker's canon origin story.
The Killing Joke hinted at the possibility of being the Joker's canon origin in a previous story arc involving Batman and Red Mask. Instead of breaking his mind, Red Mask accidentally two Joker copies. This plot point has been confirmed, indicating that the origin story told in The Killing Joke was true. This revelation is further supported by an apology made by the Joker, likely in reference to his actions in The Killing Joke. the Joker's origins have been shrouded in mystery, DC is now confirming that he was truth.
The debate surrounding the Joker's origins has been a long-standing one as he is portrayed as chaos incarnate no definitive origin story. However, with Red Mask creating multiple Jokers and unresolved plot points, an origin needed to be built on something solid and The Killing Joke provides that foundation. There may still be a chance that this story isn't what it seems given's greatest adversary; however, for now, this new revelation can put to rest the ongoing mystery of where the Joker actually came from.
You can find Batman #142 available on February 6th from DC Comics.
Batman #142 (2024)
Writer: Chip Zdarsky
Artists: Giuseppe Camuncoli and Andrea Sorrentino
Colorists: Alejandro Sanchez & Dave Stewart
Letterer: Clayton Cowles
Cover Artist: Giuseppe Camuncoli