WARNING: Contains potential spoilers for SUPERMAN #19!
One of Superman most beloved and recognizable maneuvers in countless media is his iconic “quick change”, where Clark Kent enters an inconspicuous phone booth or broom closet, ripping his shirt to reveal the Superman costume underneath. This signature move has defined the character for decades, and now it’s been given a new, romantic twist – thanks to Lois Lane’s Superwoman.
…fans should savor these moments between Superwoman and Superman while they last.
Superman #19 by Joshua Williamson, Dan Mora and Alejandro Sánchez marks a monumental moment for the Man of Steel, with Lois Lane suiting up alongside him as the new Superwoman. The comic not only showcases Lois’ new powers, but also gives fans their first narrative look at her. “S”-costume adorned with shield.
Before Lois takes on her superhero role, however, Williamson and Mora create a scene that gives it a signature ‘Superman quick-change’ moment— paying homage to the iconic transformation. However, this classic moment takes on a charming, romantic twist when Lois discovers that the broom closet she chose is already occupied.
Lois Lane and Clark Kent Share a PERFECT ‘Quick Change’ Moment
Christopher Reeve’s portrayal of Superman made the ‘shirt tear’ iconic
Superman #19 begins with a newly turned-on Lois Lane navigating the hustle and bustle of the Daily Planet. Amidst the chaos, she hears cries for help after an explosion hits the center of Metropolis. Acting quickly, the Editor-in-Chief rushes to a discreet broom closet to don her Superwoman costume, ready to enter the scene. However, upon entering, she discovers that her husband, Clark Kent, had the same idea. The small space becomes the setting for an epic moment as Lois and Clark simultaneously rip off their dress shirts.revealing its iconic “S” shield suits below.
This move, known as Superman’s ‘quick change’, became synonymous with the Man of Steel following Christopher Reeve’s portrayal. in Superman: The Movie (1978), where he performed a similar action. The film cemented shirt-ripping as an iconic part of Superman’s history, particularly in the memorable scene where Clark Kent rips his shirt to reveal his costume before rushing to save Lois from a helicopter crash atop the Daily Planet building. Since then, Superman’s rapid change has become a staple of his character, appearing in films, TV shows and comics, firmly embedding himself in the hero’s legacy.
Fans should enjoy these Superwoman and Superman moments while they last
Lois Lane’s metahuman status may not be permanent
With Lois now embracing the tradition of tearing up dress shirts to run out and fight crime, the question arises of what other aspects of her husband’s tradition she could make her own. She’s already wearing Clark’s symbol, officially marking her as Supes, but will she also adopt some of the Man of Steel’s iconic catchphrases? It will be fascinating to watch Lois grow into her role as DC’s new Superwoman and see how far the publisher takes her in embracing her new metahuman status and Clark’s heroic habits. Since it’s unclear whether her powers are a permanent addition to her character, fans should savor these moments in between. Superwoman and Superman while they last.
Superman #19 is now available from DC Comics!