Superman Ending Explained: What Happens to Ultraman, Luthor & Others?

Curious about how the Superman series concludes its intense narrative and alters the course of the DC Universe? The ending offers poignant disclosures, a surprising Kryptonian revelation, and a decisive action that revises Superman’s identity on Earth. After vanquishing adversaries and unearthing secrets, the closing scenes establish a foundation for future events.

Here’s the Superman ending explained and what it means for the DCU going forward.

What happens to Superman, Lois, and every character at the end?

In the finale of James Gunn’s Superman, Clark Kent chooses to embrace his true self not as an alien ruler dispatched from Krypton, but as a protector molded by Earth.

Following the victory over Ultraman, a mindless duplicate crafted by Lex Luthor, and the rescue of Metropolis from an expanding black hole, Superman appears with scars but unyielding determination. Despite Lex’s revelation of a covert message from Jor-El encouraging Clark to rule Earth, Superman refuses to embrace this heritage.

Instead, he adopts the teachings of Jonathan and Martha Kent, substituting the Kryptonian recording in the Fortress of Solitude with a tribute to his human parents. In a peaceful scene that plays out during the credits, he and Krypto gaze at Earth from the moon, signifying his decision to safeguard instead of dominate.

In the meantime, Lois Lane, joined by Jimmy Olsen and a covertly defiant Eve Teschmacher, uncover Lex’s plot using The Daily Planet, thereby rebuilding faith among the people in Superman.

Ultraman’s identity and fate in Superman explained

It’s unveiled that Ultraman is a clone of Superman, engineered by Lex Luthor from a lock of Superman’s hair. Luthor maintained control over Ultraman using special commands, as the clone lacked significant autonomy.

In the climactic fight, Superman hurls Ultraman towards a dark abyss, a black hole nestled within a crumbling mini-universe. Whether or not he escapes is uncertain; however, hints in the movie suggest that he could resurface in a grotesque form similar to Bizarro at a later time.

Does Lex Luthor die in Superman?

No, Lex Luthor does not die.

Following his part in orchestrating international strife, creating a clone of Superman, and coming very close to obliterating Metropolis, Lex eventually gets unmasked and taken into custody.

Or, more colloquially:
After causing chaos on the global stage by meddling with conflict, cloning Superman, and nearly leveling Metropolis, Lex finally gets caught and locked up.

Lex’s strategy centered around trapping Superman with Ultraman and a hidden dimension, with the aim of undermining his global image. Superman’s loss signifies a significant shift in public opinion, rehabilitating Superman’s tarnished reputation.

Where does Krypto go in Superman?

In the aftermath of the movie, Kara Zor-El takes Krypto back to the Fortress of Solitude for safekeeping, as they had grown attached during their time together with Clark.

In a special moment during the end credits, Krypto can be seen with Superman on the moon, initially creating disorder. However, over time, Krypto is welcomed by Clark as a friend, mirroring the way the Kent family took him in.

What’s next for the Justice Gang?

The Justice League quartet – Green Lantern, Hawkgirl, Mr. Terrific, and an unspecified member – thwart a second attack from Boravia and aid Superman during his ultimate confrontation.

After the end credits roll, Mr. Terrific and Superman can be seen collaborating on the restoration of Metropolis, hinting at their continued duty as guardians of Earth.

What happens to Metamorpho and baby Joey?

In the confines of the prison realm, I’m compelled by Lex Luthor to manufacture Kryptonite, with my beloved son, Joey, serving as a captive pawn. However, once the climactic battle against Superman and the Justice League commences, I choose to lend them a hand, knowing that their victory is crucial for the greater good.

Following Lex’s downfall, Metamorpho and Joey are brought back together. The movie portrays Metamorpho’s journey as one of atonement. Once forced into Lex’s scheme, he eventually plays a crucial role in bringing balance back to the world.

2025-07-10 10:07