Why Can't the 'Supergirl' TV Show Use the Word 'Superman'

The 'Supergirl' TV show, which aired from 2015 to 2021, faced a unique set of challenges when it came to using certain characters and names. This article explores the reasons behind the restrictions, the complexities of intellectual property rights in the entertainment industry, and how these challenges were managed over the course of the show's run.

Understanding the Characters

Supergirl is a girl. She is fifteen when she arrives on Earth and becomes active as a superheroine. While 'Superyoungwoman' might be more accurate, a fifteen-year-old is still fundamentally a child. Referring to her as a girl is entirely acceptable (and more commonly accepted) in the context of the show.

IP Rights and Compatibility Issues

The 'Supergirl' TV show faced significant restrictions regarding the use of certain characters and names due to legal and licensing issues between different divisions of Warner Bros. At the time, the television rights and film rights for characters from DC Comics were split between various projects. This division created a complex landscape for the show, where certain characters and names were accessible in one medium but not in others.

Conflicting IP Rights

During the first season, the show could not use the name 'Superman' because DC Comics did not want to allow it at the time due to the presence of the movie 'Superman.' However, in Season 2, there was a loosening of these restrictions, allowing the show to not only use the name 'Superman' but also the actual character himself, played by Tyler Hoechlin. Superman appeared several times, highlighting the evolving nature of these IP rights.

The Private vs. Public Name of Kara Danvers

It is important to note that Kara Danvers’ real Kryptonian name is Kara Zor-El, which she uses for private discussions with individuals who know that Kara and Supergirl are the same being. Kal-El, the Kryptonian name for Clark Kent (Superman), was never and has never been her name. This distinction highlights the intricate world-building and naming conventions within the DC Comics universe.

Historical Context and Star Wars Comparison

This situation with 'Supergirl' is reminiscent of another instance in the entertainment industry. For example, during the Star Wars prequel era, commentator Lesley Robertson pointed out that the 'Lando' and 'Han Solo' films could only refer to Lando Calrissian as 'Captain', while the 'Star Wars' magazine could call him 'Lando.' This comparison helps illustrate the strict adherence to IP guidelines within different media.

Conclusion

The restrictions on the use of the name 'Superman' in 'Supergirl' reflect the complexities of intellectual property rights in the entertainment industry. The show had to navigate a complex landscape where different adaptations of the same character could have varying degrees of access to their associated lore and names. Despite these challenges, the show managed to find creative solutions, allowing the use of the name and character, particularly in Season 2, under new licensing agreements.

Understanding these IP rights and their challenges is crucial for any creator or content producer working within the realm of superhero and comic book adaptations. It underscores the need for careful negotiation and management to bring these beloved characters to life in a way that respects the original creators' intellectual property.