Lex Luthor has long been the archenemy of Superman. However, recent events literally made him into a new man, kinder and far happier. Unfortunately, that happiness may be imperiled for the sake of the Earth in Superman: Lex Luthor Special #1.
Written by Joshua Williamson, with art by Eddy Barrows, the special continues the story from the monthly Superman comic. Luthor was recently rendered amnesiac after he sacrificed his intellect to defeat the House of Brainiac. Unfortunately, the events of DC All-In and the creation of the Absolute Universe present a threat, and Mister Terrific fears his mind isn’t up to the task of analyzing so twisted.
The old Luthor would tackle the challenge with gusto. But can Superman risk destroying his new friend’s peace of mind for the sake of the world? Worse yet, what will the villain do if he remembers what he has lost and who is responsible?
The main cover and first five pages of Superman: Lex Luthor Special #1 may be viewed below.
Lex Luthor was a changed man in Superman comics
The recent change in Lex Luthor may stun casual fans who don’t normally read the comics. Certainly, he is defined by his hatred of the Man of Steel in most media. However, recent events had begun to change him, even before the amnesia brought on during his battle with Brainiac.
Luthor had been imprisoned for his crimes before the start of the current Superman series. He stunned everyone, including Superman, by handing control of his company over to the Man of Steel. He also instructed his employees to assist Superman in protecting the world.
Most considered this a play for sympathy or part of some as-of-yet-unrealized scheme to frame Superman for some crime. Even Clark Kent was somewhat skeptical of Luthor’s efforts to turn over a new leaf. Those doubts were eliminated, however, when Luthor sacrificed himself to defeat Brainiac, expecting to die in the process. Instead, he lost his memories and all of his hatred for Superman.
This makes the problem the Man of Steel faces in Superman: Lex Luthor Special #1 all the greater. While he would gladly sacrifice himself to save the world, Clark would not allow someone else to take the same risk. And yet, to save the world, he may have to risk the life of an innocent man and the return of his nemesis.
Superman: Lex Luthor Special #1 arrives in comic shops everywhere on January 29, 2025.
