Welcome back to Strange Times & Places, where this week we’re looking at a story that only arguably fits our criteria: Alan Moore and Curt Swan’s legendary “Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow?”.
How’s It Different?
Right on the first page, this tale is proclaimed “An Imaginary Story”, but then we are asked “Aren’t they all?” Since this is officially the last regularly published tale using unaltered Pre-Crisis Earth One Superman continuity, one could make a strong argument that this is as close to a canonical “ending” as Superman will ever get. Then again, the presence of Superwoman, a time-traveler whose existence would be precluded by this story, implies otherwise.
What’s The Story?
In 1997, Lois Lane-Elliot is interviewed in her suburban home by a Daily Planet reporter about the last days of Superman’s life ten years prior.
Some Super Pals.
In 1987, Superman struggles to defend his friends and loved ones against the combined menace of his rogue’s gallery – from the annoyances to the heavy-hitters – who have all suddenly taken on a much deadlier edge.
Best of Differences 
- Occasional superheroes Jimmy Olsen and Lana Lang reclaim their long-lost power sets and take up arms to aid Superman against the siege of the Fortress of Solitude. A man can be judged by the company he keeps, and Superman keeps some good people around.
- Lex Luthor’s hubris finally proves his ultimate undoing when he tries to manipulate Brainiac.
- Krypto proves a good and loyal dog to the end, protecting his master and his friends from deadly danger in a scene that will make even the biggest cat lover choke up.
- Superman wins, as expected, but proves himself a man of a principle in how he handles the win.
- Lois Lane gets herself a happy ending with her husband Jordan Elliot, raising a healthy baby boy out in the burbs.
Come Back Next Week for a New Installment of 1 out of 5 – Would Recommend!
