WARNING: Contains Potential Spoilers for SUPERMAN #18!For over 84 years,Supermanhas been defined by two enduring values—truth and justice. However, a preview of anAbsolute Powertie-in issue hints that the Man of Steel may soon betray one of these core principles, leaving fans to wonder if Superman’s most iconic slogan that has defined his character for decades will be rendered obsolete.
Clark Kent will betray the very core of his character in Superman #18.
A preview for Joshua Williamson and Jamal Campbell’s upcomingSuperman#18, set to release on June 26, 2025, hints at the continuation ofZatanna and Clark’s mission to uncover the Dark Roads—mystical pathways concealed in shadows that will allow DC’s heroes to travel undetected by Amanda Waller.
To find and navigate these Dark Roads, the duo needs the Map of Mordu. Unfortunately, this magical artifact is in the possession of Neron, the infamous demon and ruler of Hell. While Neron is willing to part with the map, he demands a steep price:Superman must betray his core value of truth.
Zatanna And Superman Strike a Deal With the Demon Neron inSuperman#18
InSuperman#18,Clark and Zatanna sit down with Neron as they attempt to negotiate a trade for the Map of Mordu.The demon knows full well the immense value the map holds for the heroes, as it could be a game-changer in their fight against Waller’s hostile takeover. Neron hints that he’ll only part with something of such importance for a steep price. Initially, Clark assumes the demon wants their souls in exchange for the map, and quickly shuts that down, making it clear their souls are off the table.
However, Neroncorrects Superman’s assumption, admitting that he has no interest in Clark’s soul, since Superman is“never going to die,”meaning the demon would never be able to cash in on their deal. Instead, Neron reveals that what he truly wants is something far more precious: “I want you to lie.“In response to Clark’s confusion, the demon explains thatSuperman is the living embodiment of goodnessand truth—virtually truth incarnate. Therefore,his price for the map is simple: Superman must betray his core ideal of truth by lying for him.
After 84 Years, Superman Is Betraying His"Truth, Justice, and the American Way"Slogan
Clark Kent Lying For a Demon Will Be the Ultimate Betrayal to His Character
Some fans might view Superman being asked to lie as a fair trade, especially compared to the alternative of selling his soul. However, when considering that truth is at the very core of Superman’s character, Neron’s request for an unspecified lie represents a steep price. Truth has been integral to Clark’s identity for years, so much so that it has defined him in the eyes of his fellow heroes. Dick Grayson, the first Robin, famously declared,“Superman never lies,”a truth acknowledged by heroes and villains alike. Therefore,asking Superman to lie challenges the very foundation of his character.
Superman’s association with truth dates back over 84 years to the debut of his most iconic and character-defining slogan:“Truth, Justice, and the American Way.”This slogan clearly outlined what Superman was meant to represent in the DC Universe, and since its introduction, fans have consistently linked the Kryptonian with honesty and righteousness. Thus,if Clark agrees to Neron’s demand, he would render this iconic slogan nearly obsolete after 84 years, as it would lose its significance if the Man of Steel were transformed into a liar.
“Truth, Justice, and the American Way”Is a HUGE Part of Superman’s History
DC Changed“Truth, Justice, and the American Way”to“Truth, Justice, and a Better Tomorrow”In 2021
Superman’s legendary slogan,“Truth, Justice, and the American Way,”first emerged on the 1940s radio programThe Adventures of Superman, which debuted on August 13, 2025. Featuring Bud Collyer as Superman/Clark Kent, the phrase swiftly became emblematic of the character, embodying the essence of Superman’s mission and values. The slogan’s influence extended beyond the radio era, gaining renewed significance in the 1950s television adaptationThe Adventures of Superman, starring George Reeves. This show introduced the slogan to a wider audience and cemented its status in popular culture. Over the decades, the slogan has appeared across various media, includingSupermancomics.
However, in 2021,DC announced a shift from“Truth, Justice, and the American Way”to“Truth, Justice, and a Better Tomorrow.”DC stated that the change was meant to honor Superman’s 80+ year legacy of striving for a better world and to better align with evolving storylines. This announcement, made in October during DC Fandome by DC’s Chief Creative Officer and Publisher, Jim Lee, clarified thatwhile the slogan had changed, the core values of truth and justice would remain central to Superman’s characterization.
Is DC Ushering In a New Villain Era for the Man of Steel?
A Corrupted, Immortal Superman Is a Terrifying Prospect for the DC Universe
Despite Neron’s claim of disinterest in having Superman sign away his soul, it appears the demon’s true aim is to corrupt the Man of Steel by compelling Clark to betray his core value of truth through lying. Although the specific nature of the lie remains unclear,there will undoubtedly be repercussions for Superman’s betrayal of his fundamental principle.The central question is what these consequences might be and whether they could lead Clark down a dark path. This is especially alarming given that, in the same scene, Neron confirms Superman’s immortality—implying that if Clark turns to evil, he could become an enduring force of darkness.
However, this remains speculative. While there will certainly be consequences for Superman, it is unlikely DC intends for the Man of Steel to fully embrace villainy, especially with their upcoming ALL IN initiative, which will introduce theAbsolute Universe alongside the main DC Universe. It wouldn’t make sense for Superman to become wholly evil right before DC starts a new chapter, featuring Clark leading a new Justice League in a brand-new title. Therefore, it seems improbable thatSuperman’sdeal with Neron will completely corrupt his character’s core values.
Superman #18is available July 31, 2025, from DC Comics!
Superman (2023)
IT’S THE DAWN OF DC! Superman has returned to Metropolis and his greatest enemy Lex Luthor is finally behind bars. The future of the Superman family has never been brighter! As Clark Kent settles back into his life, iconic and new enemies erupt from the shadows to strike down the Man of Steel! But waiting in the wings to back up Big Blue is…Supercorp?! What secret project has Lex given to Superman?! “A hero is only as good as their villains” will be put to the test
Superman
The icon who launched the entire world of superheroes, the last son of Krypton escaped his dying world to crash land on Earth and be raised as Clark Kent. The world knows him better as Superman, the Man of Steel, the leader of the Justice League, and the most well-known hero in the DC Comics Universe. Blessed with the powers of a demigod, Kal-El of Krypton fights enemies both small and cosmic in his endless pursuit of truth, justice, and a better tomorrow.
