The series finale of Superman & Lois aired on The CW on Monday night, marking the conclusion of the show’s four-season journey. This finale not only signified the end of the beloved series but also the closing chapter of an era for the network, as it was the last show based on DC Comics characters to broadcast on The CW.
Superman & Lois was a notable final link to The CW’s Arrowverse, which immensely shaped the network’s programming during the 2010s and established itself as one of television’s most successful multi-show franchises. The series finale includes a time jump that portrays the later years of main characters Clark Kent and Lois Lane, played by Tyler Hoechlin and Elizabeth Tulloch, effectively sealing the fate of any potential continuations of the story elsewhere.
The landscape of The CW and its approach to scripted content has undergone significant changes, particularly under new leadership at both The CW and Warner Bros. Discovery, which now favor a different direction compared to the Arrowverse’s golden years. The network seems to have shifted its focus away from homegrown scripted programming, with “All American” being the only remaining scripted series from before the Nexstar acquisition, while other time slots are increasingly filled with unscripted and sports programming.
Meanwhile, DC Studios is directing its television projects towards HBO and Max, which are characterized by larger budgets, shorter seasons, and distinct storytelling styles. Upcoming series like The Penguin hint at a more mature and ambitious narrative direction, indicating a clear evolution in how comic book adaptations will be approached moving forward.
Over the years, The CW aired ten series based on DC characters, starting with Arrow in October 2012, leading to a total of 46 seasons across these programs. This impressive lineup amassed a staggering 817 episodes, making it one of the most extensive franchises on television history.
The end of Superman & Lois could be seen as an opportunity for the network to explore new genres and types of storytelling. While fans may feel nostalgic for the Arrowverse, there is also room for fresh narratives that can emerge, paving the way for innovative content. This shift could ultimately lead to a reinvigorated era of programming for The CW, filled with exciting possibilities ahead.
In summary, as Superman & Lois concludes, it draws a line under not only the series itself but an entire era of DC storytelling on The CW. While the transition may feel bittersweet for many fans, it presents a chance for both The CW and DC to redefine their narratives and explore new creative horizons.