This Underrated DC Series Is Still the Best Superman TV Show of All Time

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He’s appeared in many TV shows, and it seems the story of Clark Kent and Superman really works well on television. The format allows for detailed development of the beloved supporting characters and villains that make up his world.

Not all TV shows about Superman have been hits with DC Comics fans, but some are considered among the best superhero shows ever made. One series, in particular, often overlooked, truly deserves recognition as the best live-action portrayal of Superman on television, especially considering its compelling and gradually unfolding story that spans ten seasons.

Superman and Lois Is the Greatest Superman Series of All Time

Superman and Lois is considered one of the best live-action DC television series ever made, and a standout adaptation of the Superman story for today’s audiences. It aired on the CW from 2021 to 2024, initially connected to the ‘Arrowverse,’ but was later established as taking place in its own separate universe. While many Superman stories have been well-executed on screen, this series is widely praised for its particularly strong portrayal of the character and his values.

As you might expect, Superman and Lois centers around the iconic couple. But this version of the story is different: Clark and Lois are now parents of teenage twins, which changes the usual dynamic we’ve seen in other Superman adaptations and makes this series stand out. Another key difference is the setting – the show primarily takes place in Smallville, after Clark and Lois return to his childhood home following years in Metropolis.

What makes Superman and Lois so successful is its focus on family. Even with big, exciting storylines, the show always returns to the relationships within the Kent family. This creates a heartwarming core that keeps viewers invested, as the Kents consistently support each other through challenges. The series excels at portraying believable, and sometimes complex, relationships without becoming overly dramatic, a common pitfall of other superhero shows. At its heart, every connection between the characters is built on love and understanding.

Superman and Lois Explored Storylines That No Other Superman Series Has

Superman & Lois tackled new and unique storylines compared to previous Superman series. The show primarily focuses on the aftermath of Jordan, one of the Kent twins, gaining superpowers. Clark strives to guide his son as he learns to become a hero, while Lois connects with Jonathan, showing him how to make a difference even without powers. This approach offers a fresh perspective on the Superman story and beautifully highlights the importance of family within the show.

Season 3 features a particularly striking storyline: a character’s battle with cancer. This event dramatically shifts the show’s focus, as her family unites to support her and give her strength. Even with the usual superhero action, each episode emphasizes the family’s struggle and growth during this difficult time. It’s a moving and heartbreaking story that brings fresh depth to long-established characters and reinforces the strong family bond at the heart of the show.

The last season of Superman and Lois takes a bold step by revealing Superman’s secret identity to the world. Rather than being a point of decline for the show, this decision becomes its strongest moment. The series handles Clark’s reveal exceptionally well, reinforcing the qualities that have always made his character compelling, especially in the final episodes. Ultimately, the storyline circles back to what’s always been most important to the show: the Kent family.

Like some Superman shows from the early 2000s, Superman and Lois occasionally relies on familiar and somewhat old-fashioned plot devices and character types. However, what makes Superman and Lois stand out is its focus on universal themes of family and relationships, giving it a lasting appeal. Despite the exciting superhero action, the show grounds itself in realistic family life, making it relatable to a wide audience. This combination of spectacle and genuine emotion makes Superman and Lois arguably the best Superman show ever made for television.

Tyler Hoechlin Is the Most Underrated Superman Actor

Many fans consider Superman & Lois to be one of the very best DC television shows ever created. Tyler Hoechlin, who first appeared as Superman in Supergirl with Melissa Benoist, has played the role for nearly ten years. This extended time allowed him to truly develop the character, resulting in a fantastic portrayal of the Man of Steel.

Tyler Hoechlin portrays a Superman who is older and more experienced, having protected Earth for many years. This makes him a very self-assured hero, firmly rooted in the classic Superman values of truth, justice, and striving for a brighter future. Hoechlin truly captures the essence of the character, becoming the beacon of hope he’s always meant to be. Adding to this version’s impact is a powerful new theme composed by Dan Romer, which some consider the best Superman theme since John Williams’ legendary score for the 1978 film.

Tyler Hoechlin is fantastic as Superman, but he’s equally impressive as Clark Kent. Many actors struggle to portray both sides of the character well, but Hoechlin seamlessly embodies both as parts of a single, complete person. In fact, his portrayal of Clark might even be more compelling. He perfectly captures the endearing, slightly clumsy energy of a classic dad, making Clark instantly likable. Beyond that, he presents a strong and devoted family man, and his loving connection with Elizabeth Tulloch’s Lois Lane is central to the heart of the Kent family.

Considering its overall effect, Superman and Lois has clearly made a significant mark on the DC Universe. Both Superman and Lois Lane consistently choose optimism and heroism, even when others tell them it’s unrealistic. The show delivers the classic Superman many comic book readers remember – a beacon of hope in increasingly challenging times.

Superman and Lois Was Cancelled Too Soon

Originally, the show Superman and Lois was intended to run for seven seasons, but it was canceled after just four. This happened because of changes at The CW, which decided to move away from making scripted shows, and the beginning of James Gunn’s new DC Universe plans. The show’s ending is notable because it might be the last time we see a live-action series centered around Superman for a while.

The finale is considered one of the best in superhero television history. It successfully concludes all major plotlines while still allowing for a touching epilogue that shows what happens to the main characters. Tyler Hoechlin’s heartfelt narration in the closing scenes beautifully emphasizes the show’s central themes of love and family, just as it has throughout the series.

Despite its cancellation, the four seasons of Superman and Lois feel complete and satisfying. It’s a show that’s easy to watch all at once, consistently delivering strong stories and character development. Even a year after it ended, many fans still consider Superman and Lois the best live-action Superman series ever made.

Superman and Lois is available to stream on HBO Max.

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2025-12-11 07:44