Superman: DC Retcons Origin of Clark Kent’s Superhero Name – Comic Book Movies and Superhero Movie News

In most modern adaptations of the Man of Steel’s story, it is Lois Lane who dubs the hero Superman. However, this idea doesn’t work in earlier timelines where Clark Kent was Superboy first. The new DC All-In origin currently unfolding in Action Comics offers a new twist on both origins.

Written by Mark Waid, with art by Skylar Patridge, Action Comics #1088 continues the new origin of Superman. The previous issue outlined how Clark Kent first revealed himself to the world, fighting a supervillain at the Expo of Tomorrow in Metropolis. This occurred during a family trip to celebrate his 15th birthday.

Unsurprisingly, the media are stunned by this event. This marks the first appearance of a costumed crime-fighter operating openly since the days of the Justice Society of America. This leaves the press wondering what to call the new mystery man.

Teenage Lois Lane thinks up the Superboy name

The opening of Action Comics #1088 takes place at the Daily Planet, where editor Perry White is pondering this question. Discussing the young Superman, White complains that none of his reporters have a decent name for the young hero. The only one that appeals to him was suggested by “a junior high girl.” Said girl was apparently visiting the Daily Planet as part of a ‘Take Your Kid To Work’ day event with her reporter uncle.

While Lois Lane is not specifically named or identified, it seems likely she was the girl in question. This is because the reporter in question is named Charlie Lane. Accordingly, this retcon reconciles the original Superman origin with Lois Lane’s role in naming the Man of Steel’s recent origins.

The main cover and the first four pages of Action Comics #1088 may be viewed below.

Action Comics #1088 arrives in comic shops everywhere on July 9, 2025.