How do you write a definitive ending for an immortal icon?
In short: In 1986, DC Comics faced a crisis of continuity. To clear the path for a modern reboot, they needed a final chapter for the Silver Age Superman. The result was a masterpiece that transformed a superhero's long history into a tragic, conclusive mythology.
Following the events of the 1985 limited series Crisis on Infinite Earths, DC Comics sought to simplify its complex Multiverse to attract new readers. This necessitated a total reboot of Superman's history. To provide a proper conclusion to the existing Silver Age continuity, editor Julius Schwartz commissioned British author Alan Moore to write a final tale. Moore, who had been working extensively on Swamp Thing, crafted a roadmap that honored the character's extensive history while bringing it to a definitive close.
The story, published in Superman #423 and Action Comics #583 in June 1986, is framed as a retrospective. Lois Lane recounts the end of Superman's career to a reporter, detailing a period of relative peace that was shattered by violent attacks. The narrative features the exposure of Clark Kent's secret identity by the Toyman and the Prankster, and a series of deaths among Superman's inner circle, including Jimmy Olsen and Lana Lang.
The climax involves a confrontation with the immortal Mister Mxyzptlk, who had grown bored of his traditional mischief and turned to villainy. After defeating him, Superman—distressed by his own violation of his no-kill code—voluntarily enters a chamber of gold kryptonite. This substance permanently strips him of his powers. While his body was never found, it was assumed he died of exposure in the Arctic. However, the story concludes with a subtle hint: Lois Lane's son, Jonathan, plays with a piece of coal that transforms into a diamond, suggesting that the de-powered Clark Kent survived to live a normal life.
The work remains a landmark in comic book history, frequently cited by critics and audiences as one of the most memorable and effective ways to close a character's long-standing continuity.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Superman: Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow?
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/culture-superman-whatever-happened-to-the-man-of-tomorrow.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in UK & Irish culture · More in Cultures · Latest · A–Z · All topics
