The series finale of “Superman & Lois” aired on Monday night on The CW, officially concluding the show’s four-season journey and marking an end to a significant era for the network. The show was the final adaptation of DC Comics characters to be featured on The CW, and while it wasn’t directly part of the Arrowverse, it nonetheless represented the last remnant of a franchise that greatly influenced the network’s programming throughout the 2010s.
The finale, which controversially leaps several decades into the future to depict the conclusion of the lives of Superman (Tyler Hoechlin) and Lois Lane (Elizabeth Tulloch), makes it clear that there will be no continuation of the series in any form. This decision aligns with the shifts in direction at both The CW and its parent company, Warner Bros. Discovery, which are now moving away from the Arrowverse model.
Under its current management, The CW has significantly reduced its scripted content, with only “All American” remaining as a legacy show connected to the earlier days of the network. Now, most of its programming is focused on unscripted shows and sports, while scripted projects primarily originate from international collaborations with smaller budgets. In contrast, DC Studios is transitioning its television offerings to HBO and Max, promising larger budgets and a more diverse range of tones in their storytelling.
The legacy of The CW’s DC universe is undeniable. Ten series based on DC Comics characters graced the network, starting with “Arrow” in October 2012 and culminating with “Superman & Lois.” Over the years, these shows accumulated a staggering total of 46 seasons and a combined 817 episodes, setting a high bar for comic-book adaptations on television.
One of the most notable aspects of this era was the multi-series crossover events that brought characters together, most notably the “Crisis on Infinite Earths” arc. This event drew impressive viewership numbers, demonstrating the strong fan engagement across the different series.
As “Superman & Lois” bids farewell, it represents not just a conclusion to its narrative but a pivotal moment in television history, suggesting a transformation in how superhero stories will be told on the small screen moving forward. The future may look different, but it promises new beginnings as DC Studios explores its projects with renewed creativity and innovative approaches.
In summary, while “Superman & Lois” marks the end of an era, it also opens the door to new storytelling possibilities in the superhero genre on different platforms, reminding fans that change can bring fresh perspectives and excitement in the world of television. The legacy of these beloved characters will undoubtedly persist, inspiring future generations of creators and viewers alike.