Jason Momoa Aquaman Design continues to influence the character’s look as DC Comics unveils a fresh visual direction that honors the actor’s impact on the hero’s identity. Following Momoa’s groundbreaking portrayal across multiple films and the Snyderverse, DC is bringing back elements of his rugged style in an upcoming comic series set to launch in March 2026.
A Return to Momoa’s Aquaman Style in DC Comics
Jason Momoa’s portrayal of Aquaman redefined the hero’s appearance and personality for a contemporary audience, helping the character rise from relative obscurity to blockbuster status. After starring in two successful live-action Aquaman movies and appearing in Snyderverse titles, Momoa’s influence extended into the comics. Mainstream storylines adapted Aquaman’s design to reflect Momoa’s tattoos and distinctive look, notably in 2022’s Aquaman: Andromeda by Ram V and the 2023 special edition Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom Special #1.
However, the launch of DC’s All In era brought a shift back to a more traditional interpretation of Aquaman’s appearance, setting aside the rugged, Momoa-inspired design for a cleaner, Golden Age aesthetic. Now, as DC moves into the next phase of their publishing initiative with DC Next Level, the Momoa-era influence is making a notable comeback.
New Aquaman Visuals Debut in Jeremy Adams’ Emperor Aquaman Series
DC’s upcoming relaunch of the Aquaman series, beginning with issue #15 of Jeremy Adams’ run titled Emperor Aquaman, introduces a new look that integrates key elements from the Momoa-inspired era. This creative shift arrives amid DC’s Next Level wave of titles, which aims to capture fresh audiences by revitalizing ongoing series with new artistic and narrative approaches.
Jeremy Adams initially reimagined Arthur Curry as a clean-shaven hero reminiscent of his classic Golden Age origins, a contrast to the gritty, tattooed Aquaman that had dominated previous years. However, the preview for Emperor Aquaman #15, featuring art by John Timms, reveals what feels like a tribute to Momoa’s design, blending iconic traits such as wild blond hair, a beard, and tattooed arms displayed through a sleeveless version of Aquaman’s classic suit.
The storyline, following the aftermath of the DC K.O. crisis event, explores Arthur’s fractured identity as he drifts within the mysterious realm known as The Blue. Two personas emerge: a youthful version of Arthur and an older, wiser iteration who dons this updated Aquaman look. This elder form symbolically represents the future self of the hero and serves as a direct nod to the film-inspired aesthetic.
What the New Design Means for Aquaman’s Future
This dual identity suggests a narrative arc in which Aquaman’s fragmented selves may eventually converge, restoring a unified and current version of Arthur Curry. While the younger and older forms are likely temporary, they provide fans with a unique visual experience that reflects both tradition and modern reinvention.
Ultimately, Aquaman is expected to revert to the sleek, clean-cut interpretation established by Adams at the beginning of his tenure, blending the classic Golden Age look with contemporary storytelling. Nevertheless, the resurgence of the Momoa visage in the comics highlights the lasting impression Jason Momoa has made on the character’s image across media.
Emperor Aquaman #15 is scheduled for release on March 11, 2026, offering readers a fresh chapter that is sure to excite fans who appreciate the blend of classic and cinematic influences in Aquaman’s evolution.
