Riddler
Back to Villains Main > RiddlerReal Identity: Edward Nashton
Powers/Skills: Intelligence, Problem Solving, Manipulation, Deduction, Technology, and Analysis
Voiced By: Bruce Timm
Edward Nashton suffered a terrible childhood due to an absent mother and abusive father. While in school, Nashton became involved in a puzzle contest and spent extra time on campus to practice and master the puzzle. He won the contest and received a riddle book as first prize. Over time, Nashton's intelligence increased and he could solve any puzzle or riddle. Mr. Nashton was skeptical and suspected his son was cheating. Mr. Nashton beat his son to teach him not to lie ever again. After the trauma, Nashton became compulsive with telling the truth. As an adult, Nashton worked at a carnival and used his skills to cheat people. Nashton became quickly bored with his job and sought out a worthy challenge. He decided to challenge the law and became the Riddler. Riddler's motif became leaving a clue at a crime scene that hinted of his next plan, usually for his worthy foe, Batman.
Sometime during the first three years of Jason Todd's career as Robin, the Riddler conducted an art theft at a local Gotham museum. Batman and Robin received word from Commissioner Gordon and arrived in time to confront the villain. Robin prevented him from escaping by kicking him the groin, launching him back down the museum entrance's staircase.