‘Superman & Lois’ series finale helped the show’s titular duo reach an emotionally satisfying conclusion. However, their story wasn’t supposed to end there.
Prior to the CW drama’s cancellation, co-showrunners Todd Helbing and Brent Fletcher had grand ambitions for the Man of Steel’s journey. Additionally, they initially envisioned at least seven seasons and to introduce one of the most infamous DCU villains.
Todd Helbing Wanted ‘Superman & Lois’ To Have 7 Seasons And Darkseid
Reflecting on the series’ future, Todd Helbing shared insights into the unrealized potential of the show. It included further exploration of DC Comics’ iconic villain, Brainiac. “If we went on for a couple more seasons, we would have really explored Brainiac,” Helbing told TVLine, referring to the villain played by Nikolai Witschl.
“We would have done more cool, traditional Brainiac stuff with him.” But Brainiac wasn’t the only big name on the table. The showrunners had also Dreamed of introducing one of DC’s most formidable villains: Darkseid. “There’s also a way to lead up to Darkseid that we had talked about,” Helbing revealed.
While there was uncertainty about whether DC would have granted permission to use the character, Helbing and Fletcher were determined to make their case. “We would have pitched the hell out of it to try to get it. That would have been a lot of fun.” The showrunners’ vision extended beyond villains.
They also hoped to revisit beloved characters like Adam Rayner’s Tal-Roh, Superman’s Kryptonian brother. Last seen heading for a new life in the Inverse World during Season 2, Tal-Roh’s return was part of their plans. However, logistical challenges such as scheduling conflicts, budget limitations, and time constraints prevented his comeback.
How The Show Broke The Superman Mold
‘Superman & Lois’ dared to break new ground in its portrayal of Clark Kent’s story, particularly in its fourth and final season. The season began with a shocking adaptation of DC Comics’ iconic “The Death of Superman,” as Tyler Hoechlin’s Superman met his end at the hands of Doomsday.
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Yet, true to the comics, Clark was resurrected just a few episodes later. However, the series didn’t merely retread familiar territory. It introduced a deeply human twist to Superman’s arc. After his resurrection, Clark grappled with the consequences of his temporary death.
Moreover, it altered his relationships and legacy. A series of time jumps showed the futures of the show’s characters, revealing an aging Superman whose powers faded over time, leaving him mortal. This evolution culminated in a heart-wrenching moment 32 years after the events of Season 4.
Having already lived through the loss of Lois Lane, Clark suffered a heart attack. Saved momentarily by Kyle, his resurrection was short-lived. Surrounded by his sons Jonathan and Jordan at their Smallville home, Clark passed away, his humanity fully realized.
