There have been countless iterations of “Superman” throughout movies, television and comics, and the classic DC Comics superhero has just been given yet another version: the CW’s “Superman and Lois” premiered on Feb. 23, 2021, and shows a promising new future for the iconic hero. 

“Superman & Lois” follows the iconic hero as both Clark Kent and Superman (Tyler Hoechlin), his wife Lois Lane (Bitsie Tulloch) and their sons Jon (Jordan Elsass) and Jordan (Alexander Garfin) as they navigate life. This iteration of Superman has appeared in the CW’s Arrowverse before, featuring in episodes of “Supergirl” and in multiple Arrowverse crossover series. However, this is the first time that Hoechlin’s portrayal of the hero has been given his own standalone show, and the first time in the Arrowverse that Lois Lane has been given a prominent role. 

The “Superman & Lois” premiere wasted no time diving into somewhat difficult subjects such as mental health and growing corporate power, for example. While other Arrowverse shows have involved themselves in similar topics, none have done so as early as “Superman & Lois.” As the show continues, it will be interesting to see how they fit these topics into the superhero narrative and whether or not the producers and screenwriters take a political stance on them.  

Additionally, the premiere presented a good mix of action and plot, giving equal attention to the storyline as well as the action that such shows and movies are known for. While much of the premiere was dedicated to exposition and building the plot for the rest of the season, viewers still got plenty of scenes to see Superman in action. The computer generated imagery (CGI) effects were not bad, and showed promise for the rest of the season. 

Despite the title and promotions for the series advertising equal attention being given to both the titular characters, the premiere focused mainly on Superman, barely paying any attention to Lois individually. Lois Lane is featured more as a side character in the premiere, and she is only there to move Superman’s own storyline along. Hopefully, as the season progresses, Lois will be given a more prominent role and have her own individual storyline. 

As the first season progresses, it will be interesting to see how the storyline develops and how the show will continue to improve. Overall, the “Superman and Lois” premiere is promising for both the future of the show and the Arrowverse, which has lost and will continue to lose more of its shows after this year. Hopefully, “Superman and Lois” will continue to improve and help define the legacy of this superhero universe.