Sorry, Superman, but Lois Lane is Really DC’s First Superhero

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Regardless of whether you’re a fan of Superman or not, it’s likely that you recognize Lois Lane as his constant companion. This well-known duo from the world of popular entertainment is often associated with Superman. However, their relationship, which is complex and multidimensional, is frequently depicted in a rather straightforward manner. In most portrayals, Superman is shown as the brave rescuer, while Lois Lane is presented as an ordinary person needing rescue. This common depiction suggests that, despite her intelligence, determination, and courage, she is not a superhero herself.

Beyond her outward appearance, Lois Lane has many more layers. Her bold character, her long-standing career as a tenacious journalist, and even her exceptional lifespan, make Lois Lane more than just a superhero; she is the original and genuine superhero of the DC Universe.

Lois Lane Proves Heroism is About Action, Not Power

To grasp why Lois Lane is worthy of being regarded as a superhero, let’s first delve into what constitutes a superhero. Although definitions can be flexible, they generally encompass an individual with exceptional talents, traits, or resources – whether physical, mental, spiritual, or technological. What sets them apart is their dedication to upholding justice, truth, and ensuring the safety of those who are typically powerless to protect themselves.

This definition originates from the aspirations and values held by early creators of superhero comics, such as Jerry Siegel, Joe Shuster, Stan Lee, and Jack Kirby. They infused their personal experiences, dreams, and ambitions into their creations. When Superman first appeared in 1938, the idea of a superhero extended beyond characters with special powers. It also encompassed individuals who, despite not possessing any supernatural abilities, were capable and brave enough to conquer seemingly impossible odds.

Lois Lane, a character born during the early era of comic book superheroes, embodies the traditional essence of what a superhero represents. Her exceptional talents are not rooted in supernatural powers but lie within her acclaimed journalistic prowess. From the outset, Lois has shown an extraordinary knack for identifying significant stories ahead of others and, most significantly, for unveiling the truth hidden beneath them.

She remarkably unmasked Superman’s hidden identity using only her investigative prowess. Impressively, she also simplifies intricate findings so that anyone can grasp them effortlessly. Without any supernatural abilities, she confronts challenges that Superman can’t solve through brute force. In fact, she has successfully brought down more than her share of criminals and corrupt figures – individuals who, it could be said, present a more significant daily danger to ordinary people than Lex Luthor ever did.

Lois Lane is the Very Model of A Classic Superhero

In the same vein as any genuine superhero, Lois has employed her strengths, talents, and resources to aid the powerless and defenseless, correct societal injustices, and confront the hidden evils and oppressive entities that lurk in the shadows. On numerous occasions, she’s leveraged her journalistic power to shield the marginalized, either by amplifying their voices or by seeking accountability from those who could influence change. Although these instances often took a back seat in Superman comic books, they were the main focus of Lois’ standalone series, such as the extended newspaper strip “Lois Lane, Girl Reporter” and DC’s own titles like “Superman’s Girlfriend: Lois Lane” (1958), “Lois Lane” (1986), and “Lois Lane” (2019). These series highlighted that Lois was more than just a side story in Superman’s adventures; she was a mature woman tackling real-world issues of consequence.

In third place, it’s important to note that no superhero in a costume, not even Batman, can claim a higher moral standing than Lois Lane. On the issue of morality, a fundamental trait of any superhero, Lane ranks among the most noble. Unlike many superheroes, Lane pursues justice without resorting to violence. She is unwaveringly dedicated to unearthing the truth, even if it puts her in danger. She fearlessly challenges those in power and insists that superheroes are accountable for their actions. Lois believes that protecting people shouldn’t mean acting without repercussions. As her bond with Superman deepens, it is Lois’ moral integrity that keeps “the living God” grounded and humble — a form of heroism in its own right.

Yes, Lois Lane is DC’s Original Superhero

Lois Lane may not possess traditional superpowers, but her blend of talent, wisdom, resources, and moral fortitude undeniably qualifies her as a superhero. Characters like Batman and Green Arrow are admired for their human abilities, yet Lois has been exhibiting similar feats for years without the acclaim. Unlike conventional superheroes who wear capes, costumes, or masks, Lois is a superhero in everyday clothing, with a widely recognized identity. Few heroes—even those within DC’s Trinity—would have the courage to live openly like Lois. However, if she is considered a superhero, it brings up an interesting question: could she be DC’s first true superhero, existing even before Superman?

Initially, it might appear that Superman and Lois Lane didn’t debut at the same time. However, they both made their first appearance in Action Comics #1 (1938). Therefore, we can say they entered the scene simultaneously at the very least. Upon closer examination, though, the truth becomes evident. Prior to Clark Kent’s arrival in Metropolis, Lois Lane was already a reporter for the Daily Star, which would later evolve into the Daily Planet. Given her tenacious reporting style after Clark’s arrival, it’s likely that Lois had been on the job before him, implying that she had her superhero days before he started his own heroic journey. Intriguingly, Clark himself acknowledges being drawn to Lois because of her courage and bravery, suggesting that she was already taking on challenging cases and making a name for herself as a fearless reporter even before the idea of becoming a superhero ever crossed Clark’s mind.

Lois Lane wasn’t merely the first genuine superhero; she could have even paved the way for Superman to become the second. This is because, at first, Superman’s crime-fighting was sporadic events by a mysterious, powerful vigilante. It was only when Lois reported on these occurrences that Superman gained public attention. Moreover, it provided Clark with an opportunity to interact with Lois – something he couldn’t manage as Clark Kent. In fact, Lois Lane has always been more than just a side character; she ignited the superhero movement.

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2025-07-06 15:40