The CW’s Superman & Lois has left a lasting impression with its series finale, giving fans an epic conclusion that explores the depths of Clark Kent’s humanity and the enduring legacy of the Man of Steel. Showrunners Todd Helbing and Brent Fletcher share their insights into crafting this memorable finale, which not only wrapped up the storyline of Lex Luthor’s terror but also delved into the future lives of beloved characters.

A Finale to Remember

The series finale of Superman & Lois opened with intense action, as Clark Kent (Tyler Hoechlin) battled Lex Luthor (Michael Cudlitz) and Doomsday. With the help of his sons Jordan (Alexander Garfin) and Jonathan (Michael Bishop), Superman overcame near-death experiences to launch Doomsday into the sun. However, instead of lingering on the aftermath of the battle, the show took an unconventional route by showcasing the hero’s life beyond the cape.

Highlighting Superman’s Humanity

In an interview with Deadline, Helbing and Fletcher discussed the decision to explore Superman’s mortality and his efforts to address systemic issues within the community. After receiving a heart transplant from his father-in-law, Clark Kent embraced a second chance at life. He teamed up with Bruno Mannheim, previously a critic of Superman, to effect meaningful change in Smallville. This collaboration highlighted the complexity of doing good and the importance of acknowledging different perspectives.

A Life Well-Lived

One of the standout elements of the finale was the depiction of Clark and Lois Lane’s entire life together. Unlike other portrayals of Superman, this series provided a full-circle moment, showing Clark hanging up his cape to focus on family and community. The finale captured the essence of what makes a life meaningful, emphasizing hope, joy, and family. Fletcher noted that this approach allowed the show to present a window into a well-lived life, even for a character as iconic as Superman.

Tackling Systemic Issues

The decision to have Superman work with Bruno Mannheim to tackle systemic issues was a significant moment in the finale. Helbing explained that traumatic events often lead individuals to reevaluate their actions and seek new ways to make a difference. By partnering with Mannheim, Clark Kent recognized the validity of his former adversary’s critiques and aimed to address deeper societal problems. This storyline demonstrated Superman’s willingness to embrace change and do more for his community.

Concluding Iconic Characters’ Stories

Wrapping up the stories of iconic characters like Superman, Lois Lane, and Lex Luthor came with its own set of challenges. The showrunners wanted to ensure that the finale felt complete and satisfying for the audience. By depicting Superman’s life from start to finish, the series offered a unique perspective on the hero’s journey. Helbing highlighted the importance of delivering a human, hopeful, and realistic version of the story, which resonated deeply with viewers.

The Technical Challenges

Creating a finale that hit all the necessary beats within a single broadcast hour was no small feat. Fletcher detailed the meticulous planning required to balance the season’s arc, individual character conclusions, and the final moments of Lois and Clark’s lives. Despite the constraints, the team managed to deliver a poignant and impactful ending. Helbing acknowledged the efforts of producers Greg Smith and Ian Samoil, whose expertise in television production made the ambitious finale possible.

Reflecting on the Finale

Helbing and Fletcher also reflected on elements they wished they could have included in the finale. They expressed a desire to bring back more characters and explore additional storylines, such as further delving into Brainiac or introducing Darkseid. However, given the resources and time constraints, they focused on delivering a satisfying conclusion for the current season. Both showrunners expressed contentment with how the finale turned out, despite the challenges.

Conclusion

The series finale of Superman & Lois stands out as a bold and heartfelt exploration of Superman’s life and legacy. By humanizing the larger-than-life character and addressing real-world issues, the showrunners crafted a unique and impactful conclusion. As fans bid farewell to this chapter of the Superman story, they are left with a powerful message about hope, family, and the enduring impact of a life well-lived.