A banner year for Superman 

This year is a big one for Superman, who just turned 75 and is in for much more than just a new movie.

 

With the release of the third epic trailer for “Man of Steel” by Warner Bros. Last April 16, another milestone was celebrated just two days later, on April 18, with the 75th anniversary of the very first volume and issue of Action Comics #1! 

 

Known as the issue that introduced Superman to the world, the comic book was created by the team of writer Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, and brought to life one of the greatest heroes the world has ever known. Not only was Superman’s origin and secret identity of Clark Kent explored within the pages of the book, but it also introduced his longtime flame and love interest Lois Lane, as well as a cadre of other heroes that marked the beginning of the Super-Hero genre.

 

While the cover to the original first print of Action Comics #1 is dated June 1938, actual selling of the title commenced on April 18, 1938, and was published by National Allied Publications (predecessor of DC Comics). Contracting writer Jerry Siegel and artist Joe Shuster, the first story of the issue containing an anthology of stories was entitled “Superman”, and featured the basic origin story that is pretty much known to contemporary fans of the character. 

 

Rocketed to the planet Earth from a dying alien planet, the young infant who would become Superman was carried by a ship created by his scientist father. When the ship reaches earth, the baby is taken to an orphanage, and displays amazing feats of strength. Reaching maturity, the man known as Clark Kent discovers he has more abilities far beyond those of normal men, and decides to champion humanity as “Superman”. The issue also marks the first appearance of the character’s longtime flame and love interest Lois Lane, whom Superman saves in addition to his numerous acts of heroism.

 

Today, Action Comics is predominantly a Superman centered comic, but its origins will forever be grounded on being the template in introducing heroic characters and adventures to people around the world. The cover and visage of the issue showing Superman carrying a car and displaying his superhuman strength to stop criminals will forever be remembered as one of the iconic comic book s of all time. As of 2011, Action Comics #1 is the most expensive comic book to date, netting a total of $2 million just for an original copy of the issue.

 

With Man Of Steel due in theaters on June 14, 2013, this year truly belongs to Superman. — TJD, GMA News