Superman is the main superhero of DC Comics. He first appeared in Action Comics #1 in 1938 and is considered the first character to embody the particular combination of traits that characterize the modern superhero.
As was written in the first edition of Action Comics #1 (June, 1938), Superman was born on the planet Krypton and, as an infant, was rocketed to Earth by his scientist father, moments before Krypton exploded. The rocket landed on Earth where young baby was discovered and adopted by an amiable couple, The Kents. As he grew, he discovered that he possessed powers far beyond those of mortal men and women and resolved to use them to help others. When not fighting the forces of evil as Superman, he lived among humanity as "mild-mannered" Clark Kent, a reporter for the Daily Star. Clark worked alongside reporter Lois Lane, with whom he was romantically involved. In current comics continuity, they are married; however, the character has had several other relationships throughout his years in comics. Today, the character's adventures are published in a number of comic books.
In addition to comic books, Superman has made the transition to radio, television, movies, Broadway and video games each on multiple occasions. Among the actors who have played the role are Kirk Alyn (1948 15-episode serial), Tim Daly (Superman: The Animated Series), George Newbern (Justice League), George Reeves (The Adventures of Superman TV show), Christopher Reeve (The 1980's Superman films), John Haymes-Newton, Gerard Christopher (Both of the Superboy TV shows of the 80's), Dean Cain (Lois and Clark: The New Adventures of Superman), Tom Welling (Smallville), and Brandon Routh (Superman Returns). There have also been numerous animated cartoon series starring the Man of Steel.
