DC Officially Reveals Superman’s First Meeting with [SPOILER], an All-Time Great Justice League Hero

Warning: SPOILERS for Action Comics #1067

Both on his own and with the Justice League, Superman has interacted with pretty much every superhero at one time or another. Whether it’s his long-lasting friendship with Batman or the grudging respect he holds for Booster Gold, the Man of Steel has crossed paths with practically everyone. But his first interaction with one future Justice Leaguer reminds fans just how heroic the World’s Greatest Superheroes truly are – even without costumes.

Action Comics #1067 by Gail Simone, Eddy Barrows, Danny Miki, Rex Lokus, and Dave Sharpe features an untold story from early in Clark Kent’s career as he, Lois Lane, and Jimmy Olsen cover an at-risk youth center for WGBS. Their contact is one Mr. Pierce – clearly Jefferson Pierce, the future Justice Leaguer known as Black Lightning.

An alien invasion quickly waylays the interview, but not without giving Pierce his time to shine as he shields his students from the extraterrestrial attack. But with this small moment, Black Lightning proves he’s just as much of a hero without his suit or powers.

Superman And Black Lightning Go Way Back

Metropolis Is Big Enough For Two Heroes

Based out of Metropolis’ Suicide Slums, Black Lightning has encountered Superman countless times throughout their careers. In fact, Superman was among the first to invite Black Lightning to join the Justice League alongside fellow heroes like The Flash, Green Arrow, and others way back in Justice League of America #173 by Gerry Conway, Dick Dillin, Frank McLaughlin, Ben Oda, and Jerry Serpe. While Lightning initially turns down the League, he eventually takes them up on their offer when the team restructures after the fallout of Infinite Crisis.

Having encountered Jefferson Pierce so many times, Superman is well aware of the hero’s mettle, which is on full display in this very issue. In his Black Lightning guise, Pierce would represent a notable threat, but even in his civilian identity as a teacher, Jeff is willing to do whatever it takes to protect his students. It’s this dedication to his community that makes Black Lightning one of DC’s greatest underrated heroes and one of the Justice League’s most impactful members.

Black Lightning And Superman Have Tons In Common

Both Justice Leaguers Are Truly Legends

Superman and Black Lightning have a lot in common – including their shared love of Metropolis – but the one thing both men perfectly exemplify is heroism. Regardless of their wardrobe choices, both Clark Kent and Jefferson Pierce will always do what they can to safeguard those around them against any threat. And while they don’t officially join the same team until long after this first official meeting, Superman and Black Lightning truly are Metropolis’ greatest heroes and major Justice League assets.