The Arrowverse Nearly Ruined One of DC’s Most Wholesome Friendships

Contrasting the DC Extended Universe that often places its heroes in confrontations with one another, the Arrowverse deliberately fosters a harmonious environment among its characters. While there are occasional disagreements between groups like Team Arrow, Team Flash, the Legends, and Team Supergirl, they ultimately join forces to protect their cities, laying aside their differences for the common good. Furthermore, characters from different shows have opportunities to collaborate with each other, forming alliances such as Green Arrow and The Flash who team up in numerous instances and even manage a quick drink together following a crossover event.

Given his reputation, it seems logical to infer that Superman likely has quite a few acquaintances within the Arrowverse. After all, he was already established on Earth-38 long before his cousin, Kara Zor-El (Supergirl), arrived on the scene. Yet, there’s one character who harbors a deep grudge against Superman, which is unfortunate because they make an excellent team in other DC Universe productions.

Superman and Martian Manhunter Don’t Get Along in the Arrowverse

In the debut season of her standalone show, Supergirl emerges as the central character, with only occasional mentions of Superman’s adventures since he is based in Metropolis instead. Meanwhile, Kara guards National City’s skies. It promptly becomes evident that Supergirl requires assistance, so she starts collaborating with the Department of Extra-Normal Operations (D.E.O.), headed by Hank Henshaw. However, as the season progresses, Hank displays peculiar conduct, and upon notice, he admits to being J’onn J’onzz, better known as the Martian Manhunter. Although an additional superhero doesn’t initially pose a problem, complications arise when Superman joins the scene in Season 2.

Upon Kal-El’s arrival in National City, Kara hastens to bring him to the D.E.O., eager to introduce her cousin to everyone she knows. Winn Schott shows immediate enthusiasm, while J’onn greets him with a frosty reception, hinting at past encounters between them. The atmosphere at the D.E.O. headquarters remains strained until it’s revealed that J’onn keeps Kryptonite on hand as a precaution against a potential rogue Kryptonian. Superman takes offense to J’onn’s lack of trust, but it’s crucial for the D.E.O.’s world security given the presence of another member from the El family. After jointly defeating Metallo, they reach an agreement, and Superman transports the Kryptonite to the Fortress of Solitude. It’s unfortunate that J’onn didn’t resolve their issues sooner since few characters in the DC Universe comprehend him as well as Superman does.

Martian Manhunter Knows What It’s Like to Be the Last of an Alien Race

In contrast, both Superman and Martian Manhunter arrive on Earth following the loss of their home planets, but they subsequently follow distinct paths. Unlike Clark Kent, who is raised on a farm by a nurturing family, J’onn must conceal his true appearance and adapt to human society. Fortunately, the Justice League serves as a second family for Martian Manhunter, accepting him without prejudice against his green skin or telepathic abilities. The comics beautifully depict J’onn’s transformation, from someone hesitant about humans to becoming one of their champions. However, the “Justice League” cartoon excels even more in this regard, particularly in Season 2’s episode “Comfort and Joy,” which presents a remarkable collaboration between Superman and Martian Manhunter.

During the holiday season, each member of the Justice League celebrates in their unique way. For instance, The Flash collaborates with Ultra-Humanite to distribute presents to children. On the other hand, Superman yearns for tranquility and returns to Smallville, asking Martian Manhunter to accompany him. Even though J’onn finds human traditions peculiar, he cherishes being included in the Kent family and absorbs as much knowledge about their circle of friends as possible. He also devises a way to remember his own people by singing a song in his native language, thereby enriching Clark’s understanding of him. The Arrowverse may have its motives for setting Superman and Martian Manhunter on an initial confrontational path, but it’s unfortunate that their relationship is overshadowed by drama rather than sharing heartwarming moments such as the one depicted in Justice League.

Supergirl is streaming on Netflix.

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2025-08-17 03:42