Warning: Spoilers for Superwoman Special #1 and Superman #21 The Super-Family, known for hosting some of the most formidable superheroes in the DC Universe, has just been augmented with an exciting new member. Lois Lane, the cherished wife of Superman, has unexpectedly acquired her very own Kryptonian abilities. In a realm where comic books continually surprise, Lois Lane’s transformation into a powerful hero is a twist that stands out.
Last year’s critical narrative, Absolute Power, crafted by Mark Waid and Dan Mora, serves as the backdrop for this groundbreaking development, introducing us to the newest powered hero within the Superman mythos. Interestingly, Lois Lane isn’t just a recent addition; she has been part of Superman’s story since her debut in Action Comics #1, created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster.
In Absolute Power, Amanda Waller orchestrated a scheme to assert her dominance over the superhero community, aiming to eliminate heroes altogether. Despite almost succeeding with her Amazo army—known for their ability to absorb powers—the event ultimately gave rise to the latest superhero sensation: Superwoman. The intricate backstory behind her powers is laid out in Superwoman Special #1, a collaboration between creators Joshua Williamson, Laura Braga, Nikola Čižmešija, Edwin Galmon, Rex Lokus, and Dave Sharpe.
Lois Lane Acquires Zod’s Powers to Become Superwoman
An Accidental Acquisition
The Amazos, notorious for siphoning off powers, proved to be a significant threat during Waller’s assault on the heroes. Following the heroes’ eventual victory and the retrieval of their abilities, not all powers were returned to their rightful owners. In a bizarre twist, Lois accidentally “borrowed”the powers of none other than General Zod, who remains stranded in deep space, thanks to her armor—previously crafted by Lex Luthor—that interfaced with the Amazo network.
With her newfound abilities, Lois has never felt more connected to Superman. As Superwoman, she has engaged formidable foes like Doomsday at her husband’s side and even partook in moonlit romantic escapades. Recent comic issues, particularly Superman #21 by Williamson and Mora, showcase her excitement and the adventures she’s had. However, the origin of her powers from Zod promises to escalate tensions for the Super-Family in the year to come.
It remains to be seen whether the forthcoming challenges will mirror the darkness from previous arcs involving Lois gaining Superman’s powers.
A Dark History: The Consequences of Superman’s Powers on Lois Lane
Depiction from Superwoman #1 by Phil Jimenez and team
Historically, Lois Lane’s journey in the DC landscape has had its complexities, particularly during the New 52 reboot. While some characters retained their essence, Superman’s narrative saw radical changes, including the tragic loss of his adoptive parents. Despite a darker backstory, Superman found love with Lois Lane, though their romance encountered hurdles.
In an intriguing turn, the New 52 Lois Lane exhibited Kryptonian powers after a confrontation with the impostor Denny Swan. Although she initially embraced her role as Superwoman to honor the legacy of the deceased Superman, her journey ended in tragedy when a confrontation led to her demise, transforming her into ashes. This dramatic conclusion resolved the confusing existence of two Lois Lanes within the DC Universe.
A New Era: Will Lois Lane’s Superwoman Journey End in Tragedy Again?
Anticipating 2025: What Lies Ahead for Lois Lane
Lois Lane has previously accessed superpowers multiple times throughout comic lore. Her first iteration as Superwoman debuted in Action Comics #60, albeit in a dream sequence. Notably, her transformation into Power Girl also traversed the dream realm in Superman #125. Furthermore, she had a stint as Super Lois in Superman’s Girlfriend Lois Lane #21.
While those tales were rooted in whimsical narratives from the Golden and Silver Ages, Lois’s most recent encounter with superpowers led to her tragic ending. Fans hope that Lois Lane can evade a similarly grim fate this time, even if it means forgoing some exhilarating adventures with Superman.
Superwoman Special #1 is now available from DC Comics!
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