
A recent statement by filmmaker James Gunn about Superman’s identity has ignited a contentious debate in the media. Gunn, director of the latest Superman film, emphasized that the character symbolizes the immigrant experience in America. “I mean, Superman is the story of America,” he told The Times of London, adding that it reflects a narrative of “basic human kindness” that he believes society has lost. This commentary sparked backlash, particularly among right-wing figures, as it coincided with ongoing discussions about immigration policy in the United States.
Comments from conservative commentators quickly flooded social media. A Fox News banner labeled the film “Superwoke,” while Kellyanne Conway, a former adviser to President Donald Trump, expressed her discontent, stating, “We don’t go to the movie theatre to be lectured to and to have somebody throw their ideology on to us.” Similarly, actor Dean Cain, who portrayed Superman in the television series *Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman*, criticized Gunn’s remarks, suggesting that framing Superman’s story around immigration could be detrimental to the film’s success.
Despite the controversy, the film, released by Warner Brothers Discovery, performed exceptionally well at the box office, earning approximately $122 million in domestic ticket sales during its opening weekend. Observers note that Gunn’s comments are not a new interpretation of Superman’s character. In fact, the narrative of Superman as an immigrant has been integral to his story since his inception.
The character first appeared in 1938, created by writer Jerry Siegel and artist Joe Shuster, both children of Jewish immigrants escaping antisemitism in Europe. Comic book historian Danny Fingeroth explains that Superman’s origins depict him as a “refugee” rather than an immigrant of choice, emphasizing that he embodies both the struggles and values associated with the immigrant experience in America. Fingeroth notes, “He’s someone who comes to Earth and to America, to then blend in and become as American as mum, the flag, and apple pie.”
As the character developed, he became a champion for the oppressed, fighting against fascism and advocating for marginalized communities. Fingeroth highlights that Superman’s early adventures were not merely entertainment; they were a reflection of the socio-political climate of the time, as the creators sought to address issues of injustice and inequality.
The connection between Superman and the immigrant experience resonates with many advocates and historians today. Craig This, a comic book historian, organized panels discussing the immigrant backgrounds of both Superman and Wonder Woman, noting that students often found inspiration in these characters as role models. In a society increasingly divided by immigration issues, the narrative of Superman continues to offer a sense of belonging and identity to individuals who may feel like outsiders.
In 2013, the organizations Define American and the Harry Potter Alliance launched a campaign encouraging people to share their immigration stories under the hashtag #SupermanIsAnImmigrant. Following the recent backlash against Gunn, the campaign’s founders defended the portrayal of Superman’s immigrant status, stating, “You can’t politicise the truth. Superman has been an ‘illegal alien’ for 87 years.”
Jose Antonio Vargas, founder of Define American and a former undocumented immigrant, emphasizes the importance of Superman’s narrative in contemporary discussions about immigration. He believes the film has sparked vital conversations, with people engaging in dialogue about immigration who previously may not have done so. “We have people’s attention,” Vargas remarked, “Now I think the question is, what are they going to do?”
While Superman’s origins as an immigrant are a significant aspect of his character, they are not the entirety of his story. Depending on various adaptations, some narratives have chosen to omit his immigrant status altogether, allowing for a more universal interpretation of the hero’s journey. Each iteration of Superman reflects the cultural context of the time and the perspectives of its creators.
As audiences continue to engage with Superman’s story, the character remains a powerful symbol of resilience and adaptability, appealing to a wide range of people from diverse backgrounds. Fingeroth articulates this broad appeal, stating, “Their myths and storylines and origins speak to various aspects of the human condition, and that makes them appealing.”
In a world where many superheroes represent the outsider, Superman’s narrative serves as a reminder of the shared struggles and triumphs that unite us all. The recent discourse surrounding his identity highlights the ongoing relevance of his story, prompting reflection on what it means to belong in America today.