DC Is About to Pay Off The Best Superman/Lex Luthor Story of All Time

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DC Comics is currently leading comic book sales thanks to strong performance from their Absolute editions and the DC K.O. series. DC K.O. has largely focused on Superman, with the hero at the center of the narrative, but Lex Luthor is equally crucial. Luthor’s been actively fighting alongside Superman, aiming to secure the power needed to ultimately defeat Darkseid. The story and related comics have frequently showcased both characters, particularly Luthor’s responses to Superman’s actions. What’s impressive is that this storyline has been building for over two years and is being hailed as the best Superman/Lex Luthor story ever told.

It all began with “Dawn of DC,” DC’s plan to revitalize its universe after the “Dark Crisis on Infinite Earths” event. For a couple of years, DC had focused heavily on Batman, and this initiative aimed to broaden the scope. A key part of this new direction was the “Superman” comic (volume 6), which launched with a surprising twist: Lex Luthor gave Superman all his money and companies, creating SuperCorp. Readers expected Luthor’s scheme to backfire, given his history of elaborate plots. Surprisingly, it didn’t; instead, it brought Superman and Lex Luthor closer together. The story has had its share of highs and lows, and the events of “DC K.O.” might be the turning point that defines this unique and evolving relationship.

Superman and Lex Luthor Have Become Closer than Ever

The first 25 issues of Superman (Vol. 6) focused heavily on the dynamic between Superman and Lex Luthor. Lex was in prison for the murder of Manchester Black, but Superman discovered that Lex had other enemies as well. These villains – Dr. Pharm and Graft, who Lex had secretly been battling since arriving in Metropolis – began attacking the city while Lex was incarcerated. This forced Superman to seek help from his greatest enemy. He also had to contend with the Chained, a powerful villain Luthor had created and imprisoned. While many readers anticipated a falling out or escape attempt, the storyline took an unexpected turn with the arc called “House of Brainiac.”

In this story, Lex Luthor had his memories erased, though he remained just as intelligent. He began to form a surprising connection with Superman, and they reached a mutual understanding. This alliance continued even as Luthor secretly started to remember his past. Readers anticipated he would betray Superman for some nefarious plan, but instead, they remained allies. Lex even helped Superman fight X-El, a clone of himself created with Superman’s powers. After the events of Superman (Vol. 6) #25, the villain disappeared and wasn’t seen again until DC K.O.

The first issue of DC K.O. was excellent. The heroes cleverly used special devices to trap the villains, preventing them from competing in a tournament to gain ultimate power. Lex Luthor received a shocking warning from Gorilla Grodd, which destroyed the fragile trust they had begun to build. Luthor had moved past his intense hatred for Superman, even coming to understand and respect him. He believed Superman would leave him alone if he kept to himself, but Superman’s betrayal deeply affected him. Initially, Lex lashed out at Superman, but as the story progressed and Superman became increasingly ruthless in the contests, Lex’s reactions changed. He began to see similarities between himself and his long-time rival, hinting at a potentially fascinating development in their complex relationship and character growth.

DC Comics had a really successful two-year run where they completely reimagined the dynamic between Superman and Lex Luthor. It was initially entertaining to see them playfully clash, and then compelling to watch them slowly build a reluctant trust. The storyline where Lex Luthor had his memory erased and became friends with Superman was a particularly interesting twist. He even risked his own life to save Superman from X-El, something the old Lex would never have done. This change significantly impacted both characters and how fans viewed their rivalry. While DC K.O. seemed to reverse all of that progress, the current story suggests a surprising turn: Lex Luthor may sacrifice himself to save Superman’s soul.

DC K.O. Is Going to Take the Superman/Lex Luthor Relationship to a Place No One Ever Predicted

The comic series DC K.O. explores the complex dynamic between Superman and Lex Luthor, even showing Lex directing his frustration at Superman. But this isn’t the Lex we’ve always known; he’s developed a respect for Superman that goes beyond just his abilities. He’s observed how the tournament’s Omega energy is changing Superman, making him more like Lex himself. While he currently seems pleased by this, I believe Superman will continue to deteriorate, and Lex will ultimately sacrifice himself to help Superman recognize his own flaws, ultimately saving him.

At its core, DC K.O. is a Superman story, so it feels right that it concludes the two-year arc focusing on him and Lex Luthor. The recent Superman series has really emphasized the dynamic between these two characters, with every story building on their relationship. It’s changed how fans see their rivalry, and DC K.O. seems poised to bring that storyline to a satisfying conclusion – truly capping off what’s been a fantastic Superman/Lex Luthor saga.

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2026-02-03 18:19