As a longtime fan of Superman, I must say that the various portrayals and depictions of his demise have left me with a mix of emotions ranging from heartache to admiration for the writers who dared to explore such a poignant aspect of the Man of Steel’s life.
In 1992, DC Comics introduced a crossover tale titled “The Death of Superman.” Due to dwindling sales of Superman comics, a creative team consisting of editor Mike Carlin and writers Dan Jurgens, Roger Stern, Louise Simonson, Jerry Ordway, and Karl Kesel devised an ingenious strategy: they temporarily killed off the character to rejuvenate reader engagement. This decision was inspired by the widespread belief that Superman was invincible and lacked depth, aspects that had contributed to his falling popularity.
The film mirrored the impact of Superman #75 comic book, which depicted the demise of the Man of Steel, selling more than six million copies and being the most sought-after comic in 1992. Since then, those behind the live-action and animated adaptations of Superman have felt compelled to write off Superman periodically. Luckily for fans, Superman is often portrayed as akin to DC’s Jesus, ensuring his resurrection. Nevertheless, there are instances where he has met a permanent end.
Here are 7 instances where the Man of Steel was killed off, whether permanently or otherwise.
7
‘Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice’ (2016)
In “Batman v Superman,” viewers might have found themselves frustrated enough to strike their keyboards during critical assessments. However, the movie boasted several exhilarating scenes, particularly those involving Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman joining forces against Doomsday. Regrettably, Superman succumbs to injuries inflicted by the monster before it perishes. The story concludes with a tribute being held for Superman in Metropolis, as Bruce Wayne and Diana Prince attend Clark Kent’s funeral in Smallville.
Superman’s Death Triggers Superhero Unit
In the early stages of the DCEU, it might have been premature to explore a “Death of Superman” narrative. However, Superman’s death wasn’t merely for dramatic effect. Instead, it served as a catalyst for Batman to establish the Justice League, a team dedicated to safeguarding Earth from formidable foes like Doomsday, and averting future heroic deaths. Interestingly, Superman’s demise was short-lived, with a comical return in “Justice League”, complete with a CGI-enhanced mustache.
6
‘All-Star Superman’ (2011)
The comic book adaptation titled All-Star Superman, which is inspired by the comic book series of the same name created by Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely, presents an unusual and gradual end for the Man of Steel. In this storyline, Superman inadvertently positions himself for lethal radiation during his attempt to disarm a genetically-superior time-bomb clone crafted by Lex Luthor. As he becomes aware of his diminishing lifespan, he transports Lois Lane to the Fortress of Solitude and administers her a serum that empowers her for 24 hours, thus transforming her into Superwoman.
DC’s Version of Temp V?
The serum Lois is using recalls the character Temp V (also known as V24) from “The Boys”, and it’s clear which one was inspired by the other. Due to Superman’s sad demise, we encounter a Lois Lane who transcends her role as merely a love interest.
The movie presents a more prolonged emotional journey compared to other DC films involving Superman’s demise. Since the radiation poisoning occurs at the start, we witness him battling throughout the film, compelling him to undertake actions he never planned, including disclosing his true identity to Lois.
5
‘Smallville’ (2001 – 2011)
In the “Hidden” episode of Smallville, a past student of Smallville High named Gabriel forcibly obtains missile codes with the intention of eradicating the krypto-mutants in town permanently. A powerless Clark attempts to confront him, but ends up getting shot and succumbing to his injuries. Eventually, he is revived by Jor-El in the Fortress of Solitude.
Family Feud
In Smallville, the superhero show disguises a heartfelt teen drama, where we find common family disputes, friendship dilemmas, and swift romantic entanglements. On this particular occasion, Clark’s death carries an extra emotional punch because it stems from a conflict with Jor-El. When the protagonist defies his biological father’s command to return to the Fortress before sunset, Jor-El takes away his powers, making him human. Despite this setback, Clark views it as a blessing, happy he can now live a regular life. However, he soon discovers that he is not like Peter Parker; even without extraordinary abilities, he still bears great responsibility.
4
‘The Death of Superman’ (2018)
In “The Death of Superman” movie, which closely follows the comic book storyline, Doomsday wreaks havoc, ultimately claiming the lives of Wonder Woman and others. As Doomsday prepares to end Lois Lane’s life, Superman intervenes and fights it. Tragically, during this confrontation, Superman gets stabbed and succumbs to his injuries.
Superman’s Death Gives Luthor a Chance to Shine
The standard death story does little to excite, but it brilliantly sets up the amazing sequel, Reign of the Supermen, where four new Supermen emerge. As much as we hate Lex Luthor, it’s fun to see him thrive, now that his enemy is gone. He gives a speech at Superman’s state funeral, before proceeding to launch his own Man of Steel clone. For once, we get a story where Luthor is the star, not just an archnemesis who shows up occasionally.
3
‘Batwoman’ (2019 – 2022)
In the Arrowverse event known as “Crisis on Infinite Earths”, various Supermen from different time periods were reintroduced, including those portrayed by Tom Welling and Brandon Routh. As expected, the situations became challenging, leading to numerous deaths of Superheroes spread across the multiverse. This tragic turn of events unfolds after Lex Luthor, having obtained the Book of Destiny from the Monitor, manipulates his way through various universes to eliminate the Supermen residing there. During “Crisis on Infinite Earths Part 2” of “Batwoman”, we witness a Lois Lane from another world, mourning over Clark’s deceased body.
Luthor the Ripper
Regardless of its short length, this sequence carries a profound emotional impact, demonstrating the intense sorrow that comes with losing someone dear. Although we may not have personally known the other Supermen, witnessing their demise at Luthor’s handless still leaves us with a deep sense of pain. Fortunately, this turmoil doesn’t persist indefinitely. The team ultimately succeeds in subduing Lex and recovering the book, but Luthor’s actions continue to echo across the Arrowverse.
2
‘Superman: Doomsday’ (2007)
Among Superman’s most formidable foes, Doomsday stands out primarily due to its ruthless nature. Time and again, it has overpowered Clark Kent, even causing his death on several occasions. The movie “Superman: Doomsday” depicts another such brutal act. Following Superman’s demise, Lex Luthor, ever the opportunist, manufactures a clone and introduces it as a resurrected Superman. However, things become intriguing when Luthor’s Superman clone rebels against him.
Fight to the Death
Reading the comic book “Superman: Doomsday” is downright spine-tingling, particularly due to the intense, prolonged fight between Superman and his adversary. The battle lasts nearly 10 minutes, and witnessing the hero and villain mercilessly pound on each other while causing widespread destruction is a scene that sticks in your mind. However, despite the lack of originality in the storyline, the comic’s humor shines through, especially when Luthor compares Doomsday to an “intergalactic soccer hooligan.
1
‘Superman & Lois’ (2021 – 2024)
Superman & Lois was an intriguing series throughout its entire run, but it really found its stride in the fourth and last season. Regrettably, Superman met his end: twice. In the season opener, Superman perishes during a battle with Doomsday. He is subsequently brought back to life after receiving General Lane’s heart through a transplant. In the finale, he meets his end once more, this time peacefully and contentedly, having accomplished everything he had ever dreamed of.
The Most Creative Handling of Superman’s Demise
In the series, Superman’s initial death is something we’ve seen before, but luckily, the writers come up with some very imaginative twists afterward. The character becomes increasingly human-like, which makes him more relatable. Even after his resurrection, it’s revealed that he won’t be immortal indefinitely. His strength also wanes, causing us to always worry about his wellbeing. Whenever he engages in a fight, there’s a constant fear that he might overexert himself, potentially leading to a heart failure.
In essence, the series unfolds a tale as poignant as a sunset, striking a chord with our personal experiences. Lois succumbs to cancer, leaving Clark feeling isolated; he adopts a dog named Krypto to fill the void, but even Superman can’t escape the passage of time.
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2024-12-15 22:02