http://www.comicbookresources.com/article/dc-comics-cancels-batgirl-joker-variant-at-artists-request
"The cancelled "Batgirl" #41 variant cover, illustrated by Rafael Albuquerque.
The highly criticized variant cover for "Batgirl" #41 will not be published by DC Comics, CBR News has learned. This move was made at the request of the cover's artist, Rafael Albuquerque.
"My intention was never to hurt or upset anyone through my art," Albuquerque said in a statement. "For that reason, I have recommended to DC that the variant cover be pulled."
The image was released Friday, as one of 25 Joker-themed variant covers scheduled for release in June. Albuquerque's "Batgirl" variant took inspiration from Alan Moore and Brian Bolland's famous 1988 story "Batman: The Killing Joke," in which Barbara Gordon/Batgirl was shot and paralyzed by the Joker. It has been commonly interpreted, though not definitively established within the story, that the character was also sexually assaulted.
The "Batgirl" #41 variant quickly received criticism for highlighting a dark period in the character's history, especially when juxtaposed with the current youthful, more optimistic direction of the series under the creative team of co-writers Cameron Stewart & Brenden Fletcher and artist Babs Tarr. Multiple websites ran editorials critical of the image, and the hashtag #changethecover drew dozens of posts on Twitter and Tumblr asking DC to not release the variant.
In DC's official statement on the situation, it's indicated that "threats of violence and harassment" were made following the release of the image. Both Albuquerque and DC Entertainment's full statements on the cancellation of the cover follow in full.
Rafael Albuquerque:
My Batgirl variant cover artwork was designed to pay homage to a comic that I really admire, and I know is a favorite of many readers. 'The Killing Joke' is part of Batgirl’s canon and artistically, I couldn't avoid portraying the traumatic relationship between Barbara Gordon and the Joker.
For me, it was just a creepy cover that brought up something from the character’s past that I was able to interpret artistically. But it has become clear, that for others, it touched a very important nerve. I respect these opinions and, despite whether the discussion is right or wrong, no opinion should be discredited.
My intention was never to hurt or upset anyone through my art. For that reason, I have recommended to DC that the variant cover be pulled. I'm incredibly pleased that DC Comics is listening to my concerns and will not be publishing the cover art in June as previously announced.
With all due respect,
Rafa"
Banning me for telling the simple truth is really bad form. The author was harassed and sent death threats by people who were simply offended that he dare reference something from batgirl's past, a horrible crime I'm sure.
By your actions I can only assume you agree with the actions taken against the artist.