One of the DCU’s Legacy Heroes Had a Tragic End in the Arrowverse

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The first DC Universe film, Superman, is brimming with heroes, but the main focus falls on the Man of Steel, who’s a few years into his superhero journey and still learning the ropes. He may have some rough edges, but he’s not alone – the Justice League steps in whenever a challenge becomes too daunting. Despite some differences in approach with Green Lantern, Hawkgirl, and Mister Terrific, Superman’s good-natured self prevents him from turning away those striving for righteousness. The central hero derives his sense of justice from his biological parents, whom he thinks want him to lead humanity towards a better future.

It’s clear that the message Jor-El and Lara Lor-Van sent with their baby to Earth can’t be the only factor shaping him, but there are other influences too. His upbringing under adoptive parents who taught him values, along with the positive role models he encountered during his childhood, all played a part in his development. The DC Universe already had heroes prior to Superman’s arrival, and one of them had a notable impact on the Arrowverse.

Superman Reveals How Deep the DCU’s History Really Is

After assisting Superman in Metropolis, the Justice League returns to their base, the Hall of Justice, which is funded by Maxwell Lord. They’re relaxing when Lois Lane shows up and asks for their aid. It turns out that Superman has been imprisoned in a pocket dimension after handing himself over to the government, following Lex Luthor revealing the entire message sent by Jor-El and Lara. The Justice League is the only team capable of challenging Luthor, but they seem reluctant to move from their seats. Despite Guy Gardner reminding them that they are all “kindred spirits,” this doesn’t seem to spur them into action, even as all the old heroes look down at Green Lantern as she sends away someone in distress.

Inside the Hall of Justice, a mural adorns the wall, showcasing more than twenty significant superheroes. At first glance, it was tough for viewers to recognize any characters in the theater, but director James Gunn shared the whole piece online, highlighting obscure figures such as Black Pirate and Atomic Knight. However, a character who is easily recognizable, Wildcat, also appears in this mural. This character has had a rough time in his Arrowverse universe, suggesting that there might be bigger things coming up for him in the DC Universe.

Wildcat Can’t Catch a Break in the Arrowverse

In Season 3 of Arrow, Ted Grant, also known as Wildcat, appears for the second time in live-action. Laurel Lance discovers that her companions secretly fight crime as vigilantes and yearns to join them. However, Oliver Queen refuses to train her since he harbors guilt over Sara Lance, Laurel’s sister, getting involved with the League of Assassins and losing her life. Unable to learn from Team Arrow, Laurel sets out to find another instructor and locates Grant, a former boxer who has experience as a vigilante. He imparts all his knowledge to her, and eventually, she gains enough confidence to patrol the streets of Star City on her own.

Regrettably, Star City isn’t thriving as it should due to the rampant gang activity and Ra’s al Ghul planning an assault. Motivated by Laurel, Grant decides to put on his old Wildcat costume and tackle Brick, a villain causing issues for Team Arrow. The fight ends quickly, and in the last scene where Wildcat appears, it seems he’s barely clinging to life. There are more pressing matters after that, but Arrow does not bring up Grant again, leaving his condition uncertain. Showrunner Marc Guggenheim disclosed on social media that Grant didn’t die, but this revelation is difficult to accept given he doesn’t reappear afterwards.

In the live-action “Stargirl” series, Grant briefly appears, however, he meets his end and hands over his role to another character. It’s plausible that the Grant seen in the DCU might be preparing for a similar scenario, but considering Gunn’s statements and actions, the transition should be seamless, without any bothersome unresolved issues.

Superman is in theaters.

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2025-08-10 01:16