Superman Sets Up DC's Next Big Event With a Wedding We've Been Waiting For

DC is setting up their next big event, The Summer of Superman, with a wedding we have been waiting for. Starting in April, DC celebrates its flagship hero with a wide range of graphic novels and reprints, as well as a special one-shot: Summer of Superman Special #1. Big things are about to happen in Superman’s corner of the DC Universe, including the marriage of two of his biggest allies.

DC Comics revealed more information about Summer of Superman Special #1 on their website, including a first look at advanced art. The book, which will be written by Mark Waid, Dan Slott and Joshua WIlliamson and drawn by Jorge Jimenez, kicks off the publishing initiative. DC’s solicitation for the Summer of Superman Special #1 reads as follows:

In this oversize issue, Slott, Waid and Williamson deliver a single story in three acts, highlighted by Jiménez’s dynamic art style that has made him a favorite of comic book fans worldwide. The wedding of Lana Lang and John Henry Irons (a.k.a. Steel) serves as the backdrop for an outpouring of love and support from family and friends. However, their big day will also be big trouble, as threats from the past, present and future will spawn major new conflicts for the Superman family.

Summer of Superman Special #1 marks Dan Slott’s DC debut. Slott, who made a name for himself writing Spider-Man’s adventures at Marvel, has never written a regular DC Universe title–and he arrives in style, marrying Steel and Lana Lang.

Why Steel and Lana Lang's Marriage Matters, Explained

Steel and Lana Lang Have Come A Long Way From Just Being Superman's Sidekicks

The marriage of Lana Lang and Steel is a match made in heaven for Superman fans. Lana Lang was Superman’s first crush as a teenager in Smallville, and one of the first people to learn he had superpowers. While this drove them apart as lovers, they remain good friends. Superman has called Lana one of his most trusted confidantes, and the same can be said for John Henry Irons. One of the four replacement Supermen, he has since grown into one of DC’s premiere tech-based heroes as well as one of its top business people.

In the years since Rebirth, the Superman family has seen some unexpected pairings pop up among its members, and this has also been a treat for fans. Jimmy Olsen, perpetually unlucky in love, has seemingly found it at long last–with reformed villain Silver Banshee. Steel and Lana Lang’s relationship is not as unorthodox as Jimmy’s with Silver Banshee, but is still unexpected. In most versions of the DC Universe, Lana marries Pete Ross, but Ross’ involvement in the Superman mythos has dwindled to nothing. Far from being a detriment to Lana’s character, it has allowed her to grow.

Lana Lang and Steel Have Earned Their Spots in the Superman Family

The Summer of Superman Celebrates the Man of Steel's Allies Too

Lana’s impending marriage to Steel continues one of the most amazing character arcs in recent memory. During the Rebirth era, Lana received superpowers, thanks to the New 52 Superman’s death. She used these powers for good, taking the name Superwoman. While Lana may have had powers in the myriad of “imaginary stories” that were a hallmark of the Silver Age, this was the first time she had special abilities in mainstream DC continuity. Giving Lana powers gave her even more agency, and made her more than just another ex-lover of Superman. She and Steel are perfect for each other.

It is fitting that such a glorious occasion is being used to kick off what looks to be a fun and bold new era for Superman. Part of DC’s larger All-In initiative, Summer of Superman also celebrates all aspects of the Man of Steel’s history–including his most loyal allies. Beyond being fan service, the marriage of Steel and Lana Lang creates new story possibilities, such as the duo going on a double date with Clark and Lois. Finally, the marriage continues the triumphant arcs of two of Superman’s best friends.

Source: DC Comics

Summer of Superman Special #1 is on sale April 16 from DC Comics!