DC Isn’t Hiding the Worst Thing Superman Did Anymore (Nor Should They)

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Everyone makes mistakes, even heroes like Superman. For a long time, DC Comics avoided showing any major flaws in Superman’s character. However, they’ve now acknowledged that Clark Kent hasn’t always handled things perfectly, particularly when it comes to his relationship with his cousin, Supergirl. While Superman always strives to do what’s right, the best course of action isn’t always clear, and DC Comics is now exploring the consequences of his past choices.

As a fan, I remember being surprised when I first learned about Supergirl’s original backstory. Apparently, when she first appeared in the comics, Superman didn‘t immediately take her in as family. Instead, he created a new identity for her and left her at the Midvale Orphanage. It always struck me as odd, considering how compassionate Superman is. This part of her history was changed during a big storyline years ago, but it’s officially back now! I’m really glad DC isn’t ignoring this part of their past, but is actually exploring it and using it to show us more about both Superman and Supergirl.

Superman is Finally Being Called Out Over His Treatment of Supergirl

The Supergirl series has been consistently enjoyable, thanks to its appealing art style, interesting characters, and nostalgic, classic comic book feel. Issue #6, by Sophie Campbell, shifts gears from the ongoing action to focus on a heartwarming Thanksgiving story. Superman and Lois join the Danvers family for the holiday, but Supergirl’s rival, Lesla-Lar, is unhappy to see Superman, bringing up his decision to send Kara to an orphanage.

This topic – Superman and Supergirl’s shared history with orphanages – has been revisited in comics recently. A few years ago, in the Batman/Superman: World’s Finest storyline “Strange Visitor,” Superman encountered a survivor from a destroyed universe and considered what to do with him. Supergirl sharply suggested he take the boy to an orphanage, a point that felt odd because her time at the Midvale Orphanage wasn’t part of established continuity after the Crisis on Infinite Earths or during the New 52 era. However, the Death Metal event changed things by bringing back older storylines, making this previously off-limits history relevant again.

In World’s Finest, Superman doesn’t directly respond to what Supergirl says, but he does have a sincere conversation with Lesla. Clark admits Lesla cares about Kara as much as he does, and explains his previous actions were motivated by wanting to protect her. However, he also acknowledges he made a mistake and that his concern doesn’t justify what he did. This honest conversation resolves the conflict, and Superman and Lesla end up working together to bake a pecan pie.

Superman isn’t Perfect, and He Really Shouldn’t Be

Okay, as a big Superman fan, I’ve always thought about why he sent Supergirl to an orphanage. You have to remember when Kara first showed up – it just wasn’t really done for a single guy to take in a young woman, even if they were cousins. Plus, Ma and Pa Kent weren’t around anymore, so he didn’t have that reliable, loving home to put her in. Honestly, now that the Kents are back in the story, it makes his decision look kind of bad, I’ll admit. But setting aside the continuity issues, there were actually pretty solid social and practical reasons behind what he did.

As a lifelong fan, it always struck me how Superman’s decision regarding Supergirl, while seemingly made with good intentions, wasn’t necessarily the right one. She desperately needed family, and the idea of Clark essentially abandoning her at an orphanage always felt…off, even for him. I get why DC avoided this storyline for so long – it’s a tough pill to swallow. But honestly, I’m thrilled they’re revisiting it now. It does create some continuity challenges, sure, but it adds so much depth and complexity to Superman, making him feel more real and relatable.

I’ve always loved Superman, but something that really strikes me is that he isn’t perfect. And honestly, that’s a good thing! Imagine a superhero who never messes up – it would be so dull, and where would the story even go? People often put him on a pedestal, like he’s some kind of god, but if you really think about it, he’s fundamentally human. And humans? We’re flawed. We stumble, we make bad choices, and we have regrets. It’s those imperfections that actually make him, and any character really, compelling and relatable. It’s what allows them to grow and change, and that’s what keeps me coming back for more.

It’s understandable that Superman let Supergirl down. Everyone makes mistakes, especially with family. While it’s not my favorite storyline, I see why it’s being revisited in comics like Supergirl. It’s a good reminder that even heroes aren’t perfect, and it’s important to own up to our failures. The best way to grow is to acknowledge those mistakes, just like Superman learns and improves.

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2025-11-14 00:46