Has Superman Ever Turned to Evil in the DC Universe?

Superman is often portrayed as the champions of truth, justice, and the American way. His unwavering commitment to these principles has made him the epitome of a hero in the DC Universe. However, what if these ideals were to be compromised? The comic book history is rich with exploration of what happens when these values are challenged, often leading to Superman taking on an antagonistic, even evil, role.

Notable Examples of Superman as an Antagonist

Injustice: Gods Among Us

One of the most prominent narratives where Superman veers towards evil is found in the Injustice: Gods Among Us storyline. This alternate universe sees Superman become a tyrant after the Joker's sinister plot forces him to kill his beloved Lois Lane. Grieved and disillusioned, he imposes his domineering will upon the world, setting himself in direct conflict with other heroes.

Red Son

The Red Son storyline presents a vastly different origin for Superman. In this story, his spaceship lands in the Soviet Union instead of Kansas. Here, he becomes a symbol of Soviet ideals at odds with Western values. His allegiance is with younger heroes like Batman and Wonder Woman, leading to ongoing conflict and competition.

Superman: The Dark Side

In the Elseworlds tale titled Superman: The Dark Side, Superman is raised on Apokolips by Darkseid. This upbringing turns him into a figure of darkness and tyranny, a stark contrast to his Kryptonian origins.

The Dark Knight Returns

In The Dark Knight Returns, a seminal work by Frank Miller, an older Superman is depicted as a government pawn whose actions, while aimed at maintaining order, put him at odds with other heroes, particularly Batman. This portrayal dives deeper into the implications of power and control, highlighting the ethical complexities of his character.

Doomsday Clock

Another series that explores the darker side of Superman's personality is Doomsday Clock. This storyline delves into the themes of power and control, leading to morally ambiguous actions. These stories demonstrate the depth and complexity of Supermen's character when pushed to his limits.

Alternate Universes and Realities

The DC Multiverse offers numerous scenarios where Superman's heroic nature is tested, often to breaking point. Here are some key examples:

Superman: Injustice

In the Injustice storyline, Superman's descent into darkness is a pivotal narrative. This event is pivotal to the storyline and has influenced many subsequent narratives.

Ultraman: Earth 3 Crime Syndicate

On Earth 3, Superman's counterpart is Ultraman, a member of the Crime Syndicate who is deeply entrenched in villainy.

Overman: Earth X Germany

On Earth X Germany, Superman takes on a militaristic and tyrannical stance.

Red Son: Earth 30 Russia

On Earth 30 Russia, Superman's character is reimagined to align with the ideological bent of the Soviet Union.

Superman: Earth 2

Another universe where Superman's heroism is tested is Earth 2. This series delves into his origins and the moral dilemmas he faces in a world where things are very different.

Superman: Dark Multiverse

The Dark Multiverse line showcases Superman in various dark, alternate realities where he is a force for evil.

Superboy Prime: Earth Prime

Superboy Prime, a young and merciless version of Superman, wreaks havoc on Earth Prime, making clear that the line to villainy can be dangerously blurred.

Black Zero: Earth 1 Hypertime Reality

On the Earth 1 Hypertime Reality, Superman faces the challenge of Black Zero, further emphasizing his potential for evil.

Impersonators, Imposters, and Mind Control

Superman is not alone in this journey to the dark side. Here are some instances where he is impersonated or controlled:

Bizarro and the Cyborg Superman

Bizarro, a clone of Superman, and the Cyborg Superman, a cyborg-merged version of Superman, both take on violent and destructive roles, often at odds with their heroic counterparts.

The Eradicator and Maxwell Lord

The Eradicator, a sentient supercomputer, and Maxwell Lord, a renegade villain who takes control of Superman's body, both present scenarios where Superman becomes a weapon of mass destruction.

Eclipso and Starro

Eclipso, a cosmic entity, and Starro, a space symbiont, both possess Superman, leading to tragic and destructive outcomes.

In conclusion, the DC Universe paints a complex and nuanced picture of Superman. Whether through significant tragedy, mind control, or even his own accord, these stories illustrate that the line between hero and villain can be extremely thin. These narratives not only offer a deeper understanding of Superman's character but also highlight the moral challenges he faces in various universes.