It is hard to believe that the upcoming fourth season of Superman & Lois will also be its last on the CW. Fans have really come to love Tyler Hoechlin’s portrayal of Clark Kent and Superman. His chemistry with Elizabeth Tulloch’s Lois Lane is also undeniable.
The Kent family has faced many challenges over the years, and no challenge was greater than what we saw in Season 3. The third season of this superhero drama gave us intense metahuman assassins, created meaningful character arcs, and teased a thrilling final season that will surely leave us wanting more.
As this live-action version of the Man of Steel comes to a close, let us look back on Superman & Lois’s third season to remember where we left off.
Superman & Lois Took a Dark Turn at the End of Season 3
Season 3 was filled with many powerful twists. As Superman and Lois fought to reveal the criminal activities of Metropolis’ most notorious gang leader, Bruno Mannheim (Chad L. Coleman), Superman found himself battling a sound-based assassin.
This assassin, known to DC Comics fans as Onomatopoeia, was responsible for the deaths of many people connected to Mannheim’s Intergang operation. This included the Prime Earth’s version of John Henry Irons, also called Steel (Wolé Parks), and Smallville’s former Mayor George Dean (Eric Keenleyside), who was killed right in front of Lana Lang (Emmanuelle Chriqui).
Despite facing super-powered foes, Superman did not stay distracted for long. Eventually, Clark and Lois uncovered shocking truths about Mannheim. They found out he was hiding his wife, Peia Mannheim (Daya Vaidya), and her unique sound-based abilities.
Peia and Lois had become friends during their cancer treatments, which brought them closer together. However, the truth came out when it was discovered that Natalie Irons (Tayler Buck) had been dating Mannheim’s son, Matteo (Spence Moore II).
The fallout from Mannheim’s battle with Steel led to Mannheim’s exposure to the Department of Defense (D.O.D.), resulting in Peia’s short time in prison.
While she briefly escaped with the help of her husband and son, she later died in Superman’s arms due to complications from her own cancer diagnosis, which was made worse by her abilities. As Superman returned Peia to her family, Mannheim decided to cooperate with the D.O.D. to keep Matteo out of prison.
Things became more complicated when Mannheim confessed to a murder he committed almost two decades ago. This confession reopened an investigation that Lois had conducted years earlier.
Because of this, Lex Luthor (Michael Cudlitz) was set free, blaming Lois for his earlier arrest, which had been based largely on evidence she presented in a Daily Planet article. Feeling that the Kent family needed to be punished, Lex made it his mission to ruin their lives just as his own had been ruined.
He began his destructive plan by targeting Superman. As the season ended, Lex unleashed a new threat against the Man of Steel, one that could actually kill him, unlike previous attempts. If viewers thought Mannheim was a threat, they had yet to see how merciless Lex Luthor could be. This version of Lex is very different from earlier portrayals of the character.
Lois Lane Continues Her Battle with Breast Cancer
Looking back at Season 3, a significant part of the story revolved around Lois Lane’s struggle with stage 3 inflammatory breast cancer.
While previous seasons dealt with Jordan’s (Alex Garfin) developing powers and Jonathan’s (originally played by Jordan Elsass and now by Michael Bishop) struggles with X-Kryptonite drugs, Season 3 took a different approach by making Lois sick with something that Kryptonian technology could not cure.
While Clark cannot get cancer due to his alien biology, Lois is still vulnerable to human ailments. This season put Lois through many challenges, but it was also a powerful scheme of life and death that allowed the Kent family to grow closer and challenged both Lois and Clark’s views about their own mortality.
Lois’ breast cancer appeared unexpectedly, but thankfully it was caught fairly early. With the support of her husband and sons, Lois went through chemotherapy at Bruno Mannheim’s facility in Metropolis. While undergoing treatment, she also worked undercover as a reporter, hoping to gather information on Mannheim.
During this time, she met Peia, and the two bonded over their shared experiences with cancer. Although Peia did not survive her diagnosis and turned out to be a criminal, Lois continued to fight against her illness.
Still from Superman & Lois (Credit: CW)
After finishing chemotherapy, Lois underwent a double mastectomy and planned to follow up with a round of radiation. Although the cancer could return, Lois seemed to be in the clear for now. How Season 4 will address Lois’ health remains to be seen, but it is clear it will not ignore this important part of her life.
Lex Luthor Is Out For Vengeance Against Lois Lane and Superman
However, Lois had more problems to deal with as Season 4 approached. After Lex Luthor was released from prison at the end of Season 3, he showed up at the Kent family’s doorstep and demanded that Lois stop her journalism career.
Despite her honest mistake—since the recording that implicated Lex sounded just like him but was actually Peia using her abilities—Lex blamed Lois for missing out on the last 17 years of his daughter’s life.
Although Lex is known as a criminal mastermind, he was not responsible for the murder of Boss Moxie (Artine Tony Brown), which had led to his imprisonment for nearly two decades. It is easy to see why he is furious with Lois, but even Lex Luthor knows that he cannot harm Lois Lane without first dealing with Superman.
Right after his confrontation with Lois, Lex went back to Metropolis. There, he searched Bruno Mannheim’s underground laboratory for the Bizarro Superman, who had returned as a zombie-like creature.
Realizing that he could kill Bizarro and the creature would resurrect, he tortured, harmed, and executed Bizarro Superman for an entire month. He then released this creature to attack the Man of Steel.
While Lex only appeared in the last two episodes of Season 3, actor Michael Cudlitz was promoted to a series regular for Season 4, joining the four Kents. There is much we do not know about this version of Lex Luthor, including his past before incarceration. The final season will likely provide many answers about him.
Is “The Death of Superman” Imminent?
When Lex sends his monster to fight Superman, longtime DC Comics fans will recognize the creature. We have seen this alien beast in previous live-action portrayals, first in Smallville, then in Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice, and eventually on SyFy’s Krypton prequel.
Still from Superman & Lois (Credit: CW)
However, Superman & Lois adds depth to Doomsday, making him a creation of Lex Luthor and a corrupted version of Superman himself. As Superman faces this monster, he tells Jordan to stay away and battles Doomsday from Smallville to Metropolis before launching into space. It becomes an epic battle that rivals anything we have seen on the big screen.
Just as the battle reaches its peak, Season 3 ends, leaving us wondering how Superman will come out on top this time—or if he will at all. From what the cast and crew have shared about the fourth and final season, it seems that the series will adapt the famous “Death of Superman” storyline, which will change the series dramatically.
Now that the entire cast, except for Lex Luthor, knows about Superman’s secret identity as Clark Kent—including Kyle Cortez/Cushing (Erik Valdez), who found out during Season 3—the loss of Superman would have a major impact on everyone involved. The last we saw Superman, he was fighting Doomsday on the moon, and the situation looked dire.
Smallville Will Seriously Change in Superman & Lois’s Final Season
Meanwhile, Smallville has a lot going on for such a small town in Kansas. Jonathan spent much of Season 3 working under Kyle at the firehouse, aiming to become a firefighter. Jon learned a lot about humility during his time there and wants to be a hero like his father.
On the other hand, Jordan has publicly revealed his superhero identity to the world and seems proud of his heroics. Meanwhile, John Henry Irons has the chance to start his Ironworks business full-time with Natalie in Metropolis.
However, this comes at a challenging time, as he has just started a romantic relationship with Smallville’s new Mayor, Lana Lang. We also see Chrissy (Sofia Hasmik) and Kyle, who are now a couple and expecting a child together.
We cannot forget that the season finale, titled “What Kills You Only Makes You Stronger,” also revealed that Luthor’s agents abducted General Sam Lane (Dylan Walsh). Lex will likely use Lois’ father as leverage to force her retirement. Knowing Lex, this will not be the end of his plans.
Additionally, Jordan, who has had feelings for Sarah (Inde Navarrette) throughout the season, finally decided that they should stop being friends for the time being.
With Sarah now focused on paying off debts from a DUI incident and Jordan busy being a superhero, they do not have much time to spend together. It seems that Jordan finds it too hard to remain friends with Sarah without any romantic involvement.
With Season 4 set to premiere on October 7, it seems that the stakes will be higher than ever before. Viewers will see how the Kents deal with the fallout from their family’s struggles, as well as the impact of Lois’s cancer and Superman’s epic battle against Doomsday.
Still from Superman & Lois (Credit: CW)
Fans can also look forward to watching how characters like John Henry Irons and Natalie deal with their grief as they lose someone so important to them. If Superman does die, the world may never be the same again. There is no telling how long Superman will be absent.
Superman & Lois Is a Unique Take on the Superman Mythos
As the series reaches its final chapter, Superman & Lois has shows themes of family, duty, and heroism. While other Superman adaptations have focused on the more fantastical aspects of the character, shows themes of family, duty, and heroism.
While other Superman adaptations have focused on the more Superman & Lois has emphasized the human side of Clark Kent. The show has beautifully portrayed the struggles of balancing his responsibilities as a father and husband with his duties as Superman.
The relationships among the characters, especially between Lois and Clark, have been heartwarming and relatable, providing a refreshing take on a well-known mythos.
Furthermore, the series has been notable for its portrayal of strong female characters. Lois Lane is not just Superman’s love interest but a capable journalist fighting her own battles, both personal and professional.
Still from Superman & Lois (Credit: CW)
The representation of women in the show, including Lana Lang and Natalie Irons, highlights their strength and resilience, making them vital characters in their own right.
The Future of Superman in Other Media
While Superman & Lois may be ending, the future of Superman in other media looks promising. With numerous animated series and films in production, as well as upcoming DC films featuring Superman, the character will continue to have a significant presence in pop culture. Fans can look forward to showing new stories and interpretations of the iconic superhero.
As we prepare for the fourth and final season of Superman & Lois, it is essential to appreciate the journey this series has taken us on. From Lois Lane’s battle with cancer to Superman’s epic showdown with Lex Luthor, the show has shows profound themes that resonate with audiences.
With its final season approaching, fans will be left with a mix of emotions as they say goodbye to this unique and heartfelt portrayal of the Man of Steel and his family.
Superman & Lois is set to conclude its fourth season on the CW, following the impactful events of Season 3. The season highlighted Lois Lane’s battle with stage 3 inflammatory breast cancer, while Superman faced off against criminal mastermind Lex Luthor and powerful metahuman threats.
Still from Superman & Lois (Credit: CW)
As the Kents shows personal struggles and challenges, they confront significant changes in their lives and relationships.
The final season promises to show themes of family, heroism, and sacrifice, culminating in an epic showdown that may redefine the Superman mythos. Fans eagerly await the conclusion of this heartfelt and unique portrayal of the iconic superhero.
“Outer Banks” is a popular Netflix teen drama series that premiered on April 15, 2020. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Outer Banks of North Carolina, the show quickly captured the attention of audiences with its thrilling blend of adventure, romance, and class struggle.
The series follows a group of teenagers known as the Pogues, who belong to the working class, as they face the challenges of adolescence while searching for a legendary treasure linked to John B’s missing father.
As they compete against the wealthy Kooks, the show’s rich characters and complex relationships draw viewers in, making it a standout among teen dramas.
The Core Conflict: Pogues vs. Kooks
At the heart of “Outer Banks” is the ongoing rivalry between two groups: the Pogues and the Kooks. The Pogues, led by the charismatic John B (Chase Stokes), are a group of working-class teens who embody the spirit of adventure and friendship.
They include JJ (Rudy Pankow), a reckless but loyal friend; Pope (Jonathan Daviss), the brains of the group; and Kiara (Madison Bailey), who often acts as the moral compass.
The Kooks, on the other hand, represent the affluent elite of the Outer Banks, with characters like Sarah Cameron (Madelyn Cline), her brother Rafe (Drew Starkey), and Sarah’s ex-boyfriend Topper (Austin North). The Kooks are accustomed to privilege and power, leading to intense clashes with the Pogues.
This class divide serves as a backdrop for the series, creating tension and drama that keep viewers engaged. The Pogues’ struggles against the Kooks’ entitlement reflect real-life social issues, making their journey relatable.
As the series progresses, the stakes rise, pushing the characters to their limits and forcing them to confront not only their rivals but also their own identities and loyalties.
The Quest for Treasure: John B’s Journey
The central plot of “Outer Banks” revolves around John B’s quest to find the Royal Merchant, a legendary shipwreck that is said to contain a substantial treasure. The mystery surrounding the ship’s disappearance ties back to his father, Big John Routledge (Charles Halford), who went missing while searching for it.
Still from Outer Banks (Credit: Netflix)
This personal connection drives John B’s determination to uncover the truth, leading him and his friends on a thrilling treasure hunt filled with twists and turns.
In the first season, John B’s journey begins when he discovers a mysterious compass belonging to his father. This discovery sets him on a path of adventure as he rallies his friends to join the quest.
The bond between the Pogues strengthens as they work together to decode clues and face challenges, showcasing themes of friendship and loyalty. The search for treasure becomes more than just a hunt; it symbolizes John B’s quest for identity and closure regarding his father’s disappearance.
As they goes deeper into the mystery, the Pogues face numerous obstacles, including rival treasure hunters, the Kooks, and law enforcement. These challenges not only test their resilience but also force them to confront their fears and insecurities. The show skillfully intertwines moments of excitement with emotional depth, making the characters’ growth an essential part of the narrative.
Intense Episodes: Key Moments in the Series
“Secret of the Gnomon” (Season 3, Episode 10)
The season three finale is a culmination of the Pogues’ journey, with high stakes and emotional farewells. In South America, the Pogues are on the brink of finding El Dorado, the legendary city of gold. The tension escalates as they confront Carlos Singh (Andy McQueen), a ruthless treasure hunter determined to claim the riches for himself.
The episode showcases the themes of sacrifice and redemption as Big John and Ward Cameron (Charles Esten) make ultimate sacrifices to protect their children. This moment reinforces the series’ message that family and loyalty transcend material wealth, leaving viewers with a powerful sense of closure.
“Midsummers” (Season 1, Episode 5)
This episode introduces the Kook lifestyle during the annual Midsummers event. Sarah and Kiara reluctantly attend, and the contrast between the Pogues and Kooks becomes evident. The party serves as a backdrop for romantic tension, particularly between Sarah and John B, as their relationship begins to blossom.
Still from Outer Banks (Credit: Netflix)
The episode highlights the emotional stakes as Topper realizes Sarah’s shifting affections. The tension culminates in a violent confrontation, showcasing the raw emotions that drive the characters and the complexities of their relationships.
“The Coastal Venture” (Season 2, Episode 10)
In the season two finale, the stakes reach new heights as the Camerons attempt to escape the Outer Banks. Ward’s deception becomes apparent, and Sarah finds herself torn between loyalty to her father and the truth about his crimes.
The tension escalates as the Pogues devise a daring plan to rescue Sarah and reclaim the Cross of Santo Domingo. This episode exemplifies the series’ thrilling heist elements, with clever twists and unexpected alliances. The emotional stakes are palpable, especially when Sarah confronts her father about the darkness lurking within their family.
“My Druthers” (Season 2, Episode 6)
Ward Cameron’s desperate attempts to protect his family highlight the lengths to which characters will go to shield their loved ones. The episode showcases the growing divide between Sarah and her father, culminating in a heartbreaking confrontation.
John B’s quest for justice intertwines with the theme of family loyalty, as his friends rally around him during his darkest moments. The episode serves as a reminder of the emotional weight the characters carry and the sacrifices they must make for one another.
“Prayers” (Season 2, Episode 3)
Rafe’s character takes center stage in this episode, revealing the darker aspects of his personality. The intense conflict between Rafe and John B escalates, leading to a shocking act of violence that sends shockwaves through the Pogues.
The episode shows the complexities of familial relationships, particularly the unhealthy dynamics between Rafe and Ward. As the characters face their struggles, viewers gain insight into the psychological toll of their circumstances, adding depth to the narrative.
“Heists” (Season 3, Episode 5)
In this episode, the Pogues execute a daring plan to steal the Cross of Santo Domingo from the Kooks. The heist highlights the group’s camaraderie and cleverness, showcasing their unique skills and personalities. JJ’s reckless ideas inject humor into the tense situation, while the characters’ banter strengthens their bonds.
Still from Outer Banks (Credit: Netflix)
However, the episode ends on a cliffhanger, leaving viewers eager to see how the Pogues will respond to their ongoing challenges.
“The Phantom” (Season 1, Episode 10)
As the manhunt for John B intensifies, the episode masterfully builds tension, revealing the lengths to which the characters will go to protect each other. Sarah’s loyalty to John B shines through as she shows her father’s manipulations.
The emotional stakes reach a boiling point as the Pogues prepare to escape together, highlighting their commitment to one another. The season one finale ends on a suspenseful note, setting the stage for the characters’ next adventures.
“The Darkest Hour” (Season 2, Episode 5)
The episode goes into the depths of despair as John B faces the grim reality of being framed for murder. The tension between him and Rafe escalates, leading to a life-threatening encounter. The emotional weight of the characters’ choices becomes evident as they grapple with the consequences of their actions.
The episode serves as a turning point for the Pogues, solidifying their resolve to fight against the forces working against them.
“The Bell Tower” (Season 1, Episode 9)
In this episode, the stakes are raised as Sheriff Peterkin is shot, and John B finds himself on the run. The dynamics between the Pogues shift as secrets unravel, revealing the true nature of the Cameron family.
The emotional turmoil within the group reflects the challenges of loyalty and trust, leading to a dramatic climax. The episode encapsulates the tension of the series, leaving viewers eager to see how the characters will face their challenges.
“The Runway” (Season 1, Episode 8)
“The Runway” picks up right where the previous episode ends, showing John B and Ward fighting on Ward’s boat. John B narrowly escapes with his life and makes his way back to the Outer Banks.
Still from Outer Banks (Credit: Netflix)
There, he meets Lana Grubbs (CC Castillo), who reveals a shocking truth: Ward killed John B’s father. Fueled by anger, John B confronts Sarah about how her father discovered the location of the gold, accusing him of murdering his own father.
Things take a turn for the worse when John B returns to the spot where the Pogues found the gold, only to discover that it has been stolen. Fortunately, thanks to Pope’s quick thinking, the Pogues realize they still have a chance to reclaim the gold.
They quickly plan a mission to head to the Camerons’ private airstrip, where the stolen gold is being loaded onto a plane bound for the Bahamas. The stakes are high, and the tension escalates as the Pogues prepare for a daring heist to take back what is rightfully theirs.
Themes of Family and Loyalty
Throughout “Outer Banks,” themes of family and loyalty play a crucial role in shaping the characters’ decisions and relationships. The series portrays the complexities of familial bonds, particularly within the Cameron family, where love and betrayal coexist. Sarah’s journey to break free from her father’s control mirrors the Pogues’ quest for freedom and independence.
The show emphasizes the importance of chosen family as the Pogues face their challenges together. Their unwavering support for one another highlights the strength of their friendships, often transcending traditional family dynamics. This theme resonates deeply with viewers, fostering a sense of connection and relatability.
Character Development: From Adolescents to Warriors
As “Outer Banks” progresses, the characters undergo significant development, evolving from carefree teenagers to resilient warriors. John B’s journey from a boy searching for treasure to a leader willing to fight for his friends showcases the transformative power of adversity.
The series deftly balances action with emotional depth, allowing viewers to witness the characters’ growth in response to their circumstances.
JJ’s character arc is particularly compelling. Initially portrayed as the wild card of the group, he grapples with personal demons stemming from his troubled family life.
As the series unfolds, JJ’s vulnerability emerges, revealing a complex character who struggles to balance loyalty to his friends with his desire for acceptance. His journey resonates with viewers who appreciate the depth of his character and the challenges he faces.
Still from Outer Banks (Credit: Netflix)
Pope’s transformation from the cautious planner to a courageous hero reflects the theme of self-discovery. His commitment to justice and truth drives him to take risks, challenging societal expectations. The evolution of Kiara, who initially struggles with her identity, showcases the power of friendship and the importance of staying true to oneself.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Adventure and Friendship
“Outer Banks” is more than just a treasure hunt; it is a tale of adventure, friendship, and the complexities of growing up. The series skillfully weaves together themes of loyalty, class struggle, and the search for identity, resonating with viewers of all ages.
As the Pogues confront their challenges and uncover hidden truths, they inspire audiences to embrace their journeys and fight for what they believe in.
With each season, “Outer Banks” continues to attract audiences, leaving them eager for more adventures. The characters’ emotional journeys, coupled with thrilling plot twists, make the show a must-watch for fans of drama and adventure.
