Is Supergirl in 'Superman and Lois'? Understanding the Canon and Continuity

When discussing the inclusion of Supergirl in the CW series Superman and Lois, the question often arises whether she is a part of the Arrowverse and the continuity of this series. The answer is complex and involves a deep dive into the multiverse concept and recent changes in the Arrowverse.

The Multiverse and Earth-Prime

Superman and Lois does feature Superman and Lois Klein, played by Tyler Hoechlin and Erica Durance, who are the same characters from the Supergirl series. The Supergirl in the Arrowverse was originally set on Earth-38. However, with the "Crisis on Infinite Earths" crossover and the subsequent reset of the multiverse, Earth-38 collapsed into a new, unified Earth known as Earth-Prime. This new Earth is a merged universe featuring all the characters from the Arrowverse shows, including Supergirl, Arrow, The Flash, Titans, and Legends of Tomorrow.

The Changing Continuity

The original intent for Supergirl’s appearance in Superman and Lois was hampered by the pandemic. The show's production faced significant challenges, including stringent coronavirus protocols, which made it logistically difficult to incorporate major crossover events involving other Arrowverse shows. Therefore, Supergirl does not appear in the series as a main character, but the show is still part of the same Arrowverse continuity.

Continuity and Canon

While Superman and Lois is part of the Arrowverse and Earth-Prime, its continuity is somewhat unique. The show features Clark and Lois with two grown children, but this does not necessarily mean it is canon with Supergirl's storyline. The significant events of the "Elseworlds" crossover and subsequent conflicts of the "Crisis on Infinite Earths" drastically altered the Arrowverse continuity. As a result, while Superman and Lois is set in the same Arrowverse universe, certain storylines may not align perfectly with the Arrowverse's main continuity, including Supergirl's.

Conclusion

In summary, Superman and Lois is a part of the Arrowverse and Earth-Prime, sharing the same universe with other CW shows. However, due to production constraints and the complex changes in the Arrowverse continuity, Supergirl is not a main character in this series. This means that while the show is canonically part of the Arrowverse, it does not include Supergirl as a major character. The universe is still broader than the series itself, and other characters from the Arrowverse may appear in future episodes or through guest appearances.

Keywords: Superman and Lois, Arrowverse, Earth-Prime, Supergirl