Superman’s Controversial Change to The Kents: A Permanent Transformation for the Family

Alert! Spoilers ahead for Absolute Superman #6! A significant revelation has emerged regarding the character of Superman in the Absolute Universe, likely to stir a mix of opinions among fans. The Absolute series has introduced numerous bold alterations to the origins of DC heroes, with a notable flashback depicting Kal-El’s initial days on Earth standing out as perhaps the most audacious change to date.

In Absolute Superman #6 created by Jason Aaron and illustrated by Carmine Di Giandomenico, the narrative unfolds as Superman’s spacecraft successfully locates a suitable planet for Kal-El. Upon arriving at the Kent farm in Kansas, readers discover that while the Kents retain their farmer status, they face significant challenges posed by the Lazarus Corporation.

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After his arrival, Kal-El is welcomed into the Kent family, but he can’t communicate due to the Sol armor requiring a recharge for two weeks. Unfortunately, following an incident that damages property owned by Lazarus Corporation, the organization attempts to capture Kal-El, forcing him to flee as his new guardians insist he escape.

A Fleeting Connection with the Kents

A Brief Encounter That Meaningfully Connects

Absolute Superman Surrounded By Flames in Cover Art

Within this alternate narrative, Kal-El still faces the tragic loss of Krypton yet is old enough to witness its decline due to corruption and greed. Unlike previous portrayals, Kal-El has a deep emotional connection to his Kryptonian parents, experiencing profound sorrow when they are separated while attempting to escape. This journey leads him to Earth, where he finds himself on the run from a formidable megacorporation, Lazarus, that is intensely focused on capturing him to thwart his emerging heroics.

The Absolute Superman series cleverly shifts the focus on parental influences in Kal-El’s life. Traditionally, Superman’s upbringing by Jonathan and Martha Kent is central to his character development. However, in this new portrayal, the Kents are practically strangers to him. It is evident that while Kal-El treasures his brief time with the Kents, the connection is painfully superficial, leaving fans likely to contest how this new dynamic diminishes the significance of his Earthly guardians.

The Impact of a Life Without the Kents

Implications for the Character of Superman

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Minimizing the role of the Kents in Superman’s story is a daring narrative choice, particularly in an alternate universe like Absolute. The objective here is to explore the character’s essence when core elements are altered or eliminated. Although lacking the nurturing influence of the Kents will undoubtedly reshape Kal-El’s perception of Earth, his inherent goodness remains, showcasing him as a fundamentally compassionate individual. The true extent of this transformation will unfold gradually, sparking inevitable discussions and debates within the fan community.

Absolute Superman #6 is now available for readers from DC Comics.

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