My Adventures with Superman Showrunner Explains How the Series Connects to the DC Universe

James Gunn’s Superman revitalized the DC Universe by bypassing the well-trodden origin story of the Last Son of Krypton, dropping audiences directly into a world where Earth’s greatest champion is already established. While the film omits the classic scenes of Krypton’s destruction or the humble Kansas upbringing, it introduces a jarring shift in lore: Superman’s biological parents are portrayed as far less altruistic than traditionally depicted.

Through a holographic message unearthed by Lex Luthor, we learn that Jor-El actually urged his son to dominate Earth and establish a harem. Because Clark only saw a fragmented version of the recording, he spent his life viewing his father as a virtuous icon. This subversion of DC canon resonates deeply with My Adventures with Superman co-showrunner Jake Wyatt, who spoke with Polygon ahead of the show’s third season debut on June 13.

“I found Gunn’s subversion of the Superman mythos compelling,” Wyatt explains. “The core conflict becomes, ‘I was sent here to conquer these people, yet I must now forge my own identity, reconcile with my heritage, and determine who I am amidst these newfound truths.’”

Wyatt and creative partner Brendan Clogher took a similar, innovative approach to Krypton’s history when their series launched in 2023. Within the standalone continuity of My Adventures with Superman, Kal-El’s arrival on Earth was initially framed as the vanguard of an invasion known as Zero Day. Throughout the second season, Clark grappled with the moral corruption of the Kryptonian Empire, eventually teaming up with his cousin, Kara Zor-El—who had previously served the villainous Brainiac—to safeguard the planet.

“Everyone has to author their own journey and decide who they want to become,” Wyatt notes. “We emphasize backstories that contrast with a hero’s moral choices, because ultimately, it is those choices that define them.”

While this animated interpretation of Krypton diverges sharply from Richard Donner’s 1978 vision, Clogher emphasizes that the classic film established a blueprint for a hero unburdened by his lineage, serving as a beacon of hope despite his traumatic origins.

“True heroism shines brightest when the world is at its darkest,” Clogher adds. “Seeing Superman stand firm against overwhelming tragedy is essential. It’s a recurring theme for most iconic superheroes—they are defined by the very tragedies they strive to overcome.”

My Adventures with Superman returns at midnight on June 13 on Adult Swim. New episodes will air weekly on Saturdays through August 15.

Source: Polygon