Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman

A Timeless Blend of Romance, Humour, and Heroism

A unique and beloved iteration of the Superman saga, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman aired from 1994 to 1997. It takes a refreshing approach to the Superman mythos by focusing not just on the superhero aspect but also on the interpersonal dynamics and relationships that define Clark Kent's (Dean Cain) life in Metropolis. Based on the Superman character created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster and developed for television by Deborah Joy LeVine, the series blends romance, humour and adventure to create a distinctive and entertaining take on the well-known comic strip characters.

The premise of Lois & Clark is straightforward: it follows the lives of Lois Lane (Teri Hatcher – Desperate Housewives), an ambitious and intrepid reporter at the Daily Planet, and Clark Kent, her co-worker who secretly moonlights as the world’s most famous superhero. While the premise itself is not ground-breaking, the series’ approach to the characters and their relationships sets it apart from other superhero shows of its time.

'It isn't just for kids' proclaimed the pre-publicity for the show, going on to describe it as 'the first love triangle with only two people.' The show follows a campy, character-driven format similar to Moonlighting, especially in its early seasons, balancing between playful irreverence and sarcastic humour. It also features a will-they-won’t-they dynamic that runs throughout the first two seasons.

The story begins with Clark arriving in Metropolis to interview for a position at the Daily Planet under the direction of editor Perry White. Here he meets photographer Jimmy Olsen and gossip columnist Cat Grant (Tracy Scoggins – Babylon 5). Metropolis is bustling and vibrant compared to Clark’s hometown of Smallville, but also more dangerous. Clark struggles with how to use his extraordinary powers to help people without revealing his true origins, which would ruin his chances of living a normal life. His solution is to adopt a costume, allowing him to operate as a superhero in an alternate identity. His mother, Martha Kent (K Callan – Knives Out) runs him up some designs before he settles on the blue and red with the large 'S' in the middle. Clark is concerned that people might still recognise him but his mother, referring to his tight-fitting costume assures him, "they certainly won't be looking at your face!"

After joining the Daily Planet, Clark is teamed with star reporter Lois Lane. He soon falls for her, but she becomes fascinated with his superhero persona, and dismisses Clark as a naïve and simple-minded country boy. While Clark shines in covering human interest stories, Lois excels at uncovering political scandals and criminal activity, often landing herself in danger, requiring Superman's intervention. Over time, Lois grows to respect Clark when she sees his intelligence, competence as a reporter, and his deep moral integrity, leading them to develop a friendship. 

While traditional portrayals of Superman often focus primarily on the action-packed adventures of the Man of Steel, this series puts a strong emphasis on the emotional and romantic connection between Lois and Clark. Teri Hatcher and Dean Cain have incredible chemistry, with their playful banter and tender moments drawing viewers into the evolving relationship. Hatcher’s portrayal of Lois as a strong, intelligent woman who can hold her own yet remains vulnerable to love is charming. She is fiercely independent, yet her slow-burning attraction to Clark adds depth to her character, making her much more than just a damsel in distress.

Dean Cain, on the other hand, brings a grounded and likable quality to the role of Clark Kent. His Clark is earnest, relatable, and full of charm. Cain portrays the duality of Clark’s character with grace, capturing the quiet heroism of Superman while also showing the uncertainty and internal conflict that Clark feels in balancing his human and Kryptonian sides. The tension between his desire to be with Lois while keeping his Superman identity a secret creates the heart of the show’s drama, with the showrunners carefully building toward the inevitable moment when Lois discovers his secret.

The first season sets up this dynamic brilliantly, with the classic love-hate tension between Lois and Clark giving way to a partnership based on mutual respect and admiration. As the seasons progress, the show moves from portraying their professional relationship to their deep emotional connection, and eventually, romance takes centre stage.

Though the show undoubtedly revolves around the Lois and Clark relationship, it doesn’t shy away from the action elements of Superman’s world. Superman’s heroic deeds, from thwarting villains to saving Metropolis from disaster, are still a key component of the series. The show’s action sequences, while not as intense or high budget as today’s superhero offerings, are often fun and inventive, utilizing practical effects and creative storytelling to keep the audience engaged. Villains like Lex Luthor (John Shea – Gossip Girl) and other notable rogues from Superman's rogues' gallery are introduced throughout the series, providing plenty of opportunities for Superman to show off his powers while also offering an outlet for character development. Shea’s portrayal of Luthor is notable for its sophistication—Luthor is presented not just as a comic book villain, but as a charming, handsome, shrewd but corrupt and calculating businessman, which adds an extra layer of intrigue to his conflict with Superman.

Michael Landes appeared as Jimmy Olson in the first season, but he was replaced as the producers felt he was too like Dean Caine. Also a casualty from series one was the character of Cat Grant. The supporting cast is another strength of Lois & Clark. Lane Smith and Justin Whalin bring warmth and wit to the roles of Perry White and Jimmy Olsen, respectively. Their characters provide the comic relief that helps balance the drama and superhero elements. The ensemble is well-cast, and each actor brings a sense of authenticity to their role, making Metropolis feel like a real city with people we could imagine living alongside Lois and Clark.

Light-hearted without being overly campy and taking itself seriously enough to maintain drama and intrigue but never losing sight of the charm that made the characters so endearing was what drove the show to success. Set against a backdrop of late ‘90s optimism, with themes of hope, trust, and the importance of love underscoring much of the plot, it’s a warm, feel-good show that doesn’t shy away from exploring personal and social issues, all while offering the comforting spectacle of a superhero who is always there to save the day.