DC Is Finally Doing Something With Jon Kent (And It’s Heartbreaking)

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Jon Kent, a fresh character introduced by DC, has been warmly received by fans since his first appearance and rapid transformation into the new Superboy. He brought a unique twist to the storyline, particularly exploring the complex dynamics between Superman, Lois Lane, and fatherhood. However, a controversial decision resulted in Jon being separated from his family, reappearing as a seventeen-year-old after having grown up elsewhere. This move was intended to hasten his transformation into the new Superman under DC’s 5G initiative, which ultimately failed. Since then, Jon has been in limbo, with no clear direction for his character. But now, it seems that DC is ready to make use of Jon Kent once again. This development is both heart-wrenching and exhilarating.

DC’s new character, Jon Kent (Superboy), has been loved by fans since he started. He brought a fresh take on Superman as a father. Unfortunately, DC made a bad decision to separate him from his family. After trying to make him the new Superman in the 5G project, which failed, Jon was left with no clear future. But now, it looks like DC is giving Jon Kent a purpose again, and this news is both sad and exciting.

Joining the Secret Six

Nicole Maines’s less recognized yet captivating limited series, titled “Secret Six“, breathes new life into the well-loved villain and antihero team, introducing a fresh iteration. This time around, the ensemble comprises both supervillains such as Deadshot, Catman, and Black Alice, along with some superheroes like Dreamer, Gossammer (also known as Jay), and Jon Kent Superman. The six are united by their shared determination to locate Amanda Waller, who was abducted from her prison cell by the malevolent organization Checkmate, in collaboration with the U.S government. Each member of the team joined for either a desire for retribution or information regarding Waller, but Jon stays with them not only for the purpose of re-arresting her, but also due to his concern for his boyfriend, Gossammer (Jay). Jay has developed an unhealthy obsession with seeking revenge on Waller, and Jon is trying to keep him in check.

The moment things began, they quickly unraveled, a pattern typical of the Secret Six. Except for Superman and Catman, everyone else was captured by Checkmate. The character resembling Batman criticized Jon, claiming he was too gentle to handle the situation effectively. Jon retorted, stating that he’d been turned into a monster often enough to understand the need for boundaries and regulations. However, Catman countered by saying that these rules didn’t ensure the safety of those dear to him.



Jon forcefully broke into the Checkmate facility, finding team members engaged in violent conflict with one another that was just as intense as their battles against the enemy. Superman’s arrival quickly ended the fighting, but he had to separate Dreamer and Gossamer who were on the verge of attacking each other.

They had utilized a device to permanently extract Waller’s memories and saved them onto a flash drive, but Jay shouted that he uncovered a plan by the US to exploit her as a scapegoat for their involvement in the Absolute Power incident. The U.S. had backed Amanda’s global takeover attempt, transforming Jon into an unwitting killing machine. They had used Jay’s home country of Gamorra as a testing ground due to its convenience, but then Jay asked Jon to dismantle the United States.

Heartbreak and Heroism

In my perspective as a movie reviewer, it’s clear that Jon wasn’t keen on tearing apart the USA, but Jay called him out as a hypocrite following their joint mission to free Gamorra. I found myself questioning where all that blood on Jay, neither belonging to him nor Dreamer, came from, as it was revealed that he had mercilessly killed countless goons and attempted to do the same to Dreamer when she intervened to stop him from killing Waller.

Throughout this confrontation, Jay continued to scream that these people had transformed Jon into a monster, and that he could halt their actions, restore balance – but Jon refused, claiming it was all too extreme. The line between hero and villain blurred for many viewers at this point, with some still believing in Superman’s inherent goodness. However, Jay ultimately lost faith in him, disappearing into the rain-soaked night, leaving an emotionally drained Jon behind.

This scene marked a turning point for Jon after years of torment, captivity, and transformation. The weight of his experiences seemed to be too much to bear, as he took flight, venting his frustration with a heartrending scream into the stormy skies – a poignant reminder that even heroes have their breaking points.

As a film enthusiast, I’m thoroughly intrigued by DC’s new direction for Jon Kent, delving into the depths of trauma he’s endured. Brian Michael Bendis’s Man of Steel paved the way for a tumultuous journey marked by a series of unfortunate events and lack of control. But now, it seems Jon is stepping into his own identity.

Jay, initially criticized as a dull love interest for Jon, has been given a refreshing twist. Positioned as Superman’s antihero ex, he brings an intriguing dynamic to the table, making him more than just a love interest – it’s a fascinating concept!

Jon Kent is poised to explore a side of himself that even Superman can’t – a raw, painful vulnerability that resonates with everyone. Yet, he maintains the essential optimism synonymous with Superman.

Although I was sad to see The Secret Six come to an end prematurely, I’m thrilled about Jon Kent’s new journey continuing in Superman Unlimited and Justice League Unlimited. It’s high time Jon gets a compelling narrative he deserves, and I can’t wait to witness his growth!

Secret Six #6 is on sale now!

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2025-08-10 01:05