Superman has been a cultural icon for nearly a century, embodying hope, strength, and the idea that doing good is always the right choice, especially for the downtrodden. Since his first appearance in Action Comics #1 in 1938, the character has been reinterpreted in countless ways, across comic books, television, and film (the less said about the video games, the better). I discovered Superman when I was very young via The Adventures of Superman with George Reeves and The Super Friends cartoon series, right around the time I began reading the comic books.
Recently, a handful of Superman-related events have reminded fans why the character remains so compelling, from the emotional finale of a television series, the excitement surrounding an upcoming movie, a deeply moving documentary, and even the staggering sale of his first appearance for a record-breaking price.
One of the most recent and heartfelt interpretations of the character came through Superman & Lois, a TV show that not only honored the legacy of Superman but also presented him in a way that hadn’t been explored in live-action before. Rather than focusing on the origin story or endless battles against alien threats (though there were some), the show centered on Clark Kent and Lois Lane as parents, raising their two sons in Smallville while navigating the struggles of family life alongside Clark’s duties as Superman.
The final season delivered an emotional conclusion, bringing closure to four seasons of interesting, well-written stories. The finale featured a climactic battle against Doomsday, a fight that pushed Superman to his limits, while also reaffirming his core values—protecting his family, his friends, and the world at large. But what made Superman & Lois truly special was its ability to balance the larger-than-life heroics with small, deeply personal moments. Tyler Hoechlin’s portrayal of Superman captured both the power and kindness that define the character, making his journey resonate in a way few other adaptations have managed. I wasn’t crazy about his take on the character in the Supergirl TV show, but I thought he was great in Superman & Lois.
While Superman & Lois brought an end to its story, another take on the Man of Steel is just beginning. James Gunn’s Superman, set to release in 2025, has already generated massive excitement, especially after the trailer drop in December. The teaser introduced audiences to not only a new Superman, played by David Corenswet, but also several DC characters making their live action cinematic debut. Krypto, Superman’s superpowered canine companion, stole the spotlight in the trailer, and the mere confirmation that he’ll be in the movie thrilled longtime fans. Nathan Fillion’s Guy Gardner, complete with his signature bowl haircut, promises to bring some humor and arrogance to the mix, while Hawkgirl and Mr. Terrific expand the film’s scope beyond just Superman’s personal story. There’s a clear sense that Gunn is embracing the broader DC Universe, making this film feel like a fresh and exciting new chapter for Superman on the big screen.
Superman’s legacy has always been larger than just one actor, but there’s no denying that for many, including me, Christopher Reeve remains the definitive portrayal of the character. The 2024 documentary Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story is a powerful, deeply moving look at his life, career, and the unimaginable tragedy that changed everything. Watching it, I couldn’t help but tear up, thinking about the contrast between the towering, handsome, and robust man who defined Superman for a generation and the reality of his later years, where he faced incredible adversity after his riding accident left him paralyzed. It’s hard to comprehend going from being the embodiment of power and grace to suddenly losing nearly all mobility. And yet, rather than retreat into bitterness, Reeve became an advocate, using his platform to push for advancements in spinal cord research and to inspire millions.
Superman: The Movie starring Christopher Reeve was one of the few films my parents took me and my brother to see in theaters when we were kids. That experience is forever etched in my memory—the moment when Superman first took flight, the way Reeve seamlessly transitioned between Clark Kent’s awkward charm and Superman’s commanding presence. Watching the documentary reminded me of those early memories, of how that film defined what a hero was supposed to be. It wasn’t just the superpowers or the fights against Lex Luthor; it was the warmth, the unwavering sense of right and wrong, and the belief that one person—superpowered or not—could make a difference. In short, Chris and Supes were and are downright inspirational.
Even decades after his first appearance, Superman continues to hold immense value, both emotionally and financially. Recently, an original copy of Action Comics #1, featuring Superman’s first appearance, sold for a staggering six million dollars, setting a new record. It’s incredible to think that a single comic book, one that originally sold for just 10 cents in 1938, could be worth that much today. But that price tag is more than just a reflection of rarity—it’s evidence of Superman’s lasting impact. He isn’t just a character; he’s a symbol, a piece of cultural history that has resonated across generations.
Thinking about everything Superman represents—from the hopeful father in Superman & Lois to the fresh start in James Gunn’s film, the bittersweet legacy of Christopher Reeve, and the historic sale of Action Comics #1—it’s clear that he is more than just a superhero. He’s a reflection of our ideals, our struggles, and our hopes. No matter how many times his story is retold, whether in comics, TV shows, or films, his message remains the same: that doing good, standing up for what’s right, and believing in the best of people will always matter. In a world that often feels chaotic and divided, especially in today’s political climate, Superman endures, reminding us all that we can still strive to be better.
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