Nearly seven years ago, Superman‘s iconic red trunks were retconned away by DC Comics’ New 52 reboot as a way to revitalize and update his iconic costume. DC co-publisher Jim Lee re-imagined Superman’s outfit for the New 52, and it became Kryptonian battle armor with a metallic sheen, which was also a departure from the classic design. But later this year, Superman’s getting a brand new costume that appears to be very familiar. The first look at Action Comics #1,000 reveals a cover by Lee that finally brings back the red trunks.
Now there’s a Man of Steel. As you can see, Lee retained some elements of his previous New 52 design around Superman’s wrists and a little on his boots. However, the rest is classic Superman, and it looks terrific. The red trunks may be a little outdated for some fans, but nobody rocks them like the Last Son of Krypton. And to be clear, this isn’t just for the cover. This is Superman’s new costume for the foreseeable future.
Via DC’s press release, Lee will also be joining writer Brian Michael Bendis on a 10-page story within Action Comics #1,000 that will mark Bendis’ first DC story under his new exclusive agreement. The current Superman creative team (Peter J. Tomasi and artist Pat Gleason) will also contribute a 15-page story, while Action Comics‘ writer and artist Dan Jurgens will get a 15-page story of his own.
Additionally, DC has revealed an all-star lineup of guest creators who will also have contributions in the anniversary title. Superman director Richard Donner is reuniting with Geoff Johns for a story drawn by Olivier Coipel, while Batman: The Animated Series scribe Paul Dini will team up with legendary artist José Luis GarcÃa-López. Batman writer Tom King is collaborating with Clay Mann and Jordie Bellaire, while Brad Meltzer is crafting a tale with John Cassaday and Laura Martin. Classic Superman creators Louise Simonson and Jerry Ordway will also share a tale, with more contributors set to be announced at a later date.
Action Comics #1,000 will hit comic book stores and digital outlets on Wednesday, April 18.
What do you think about the return of Superman’s red trunks? Go up, up, and away in the comment section below!
Images: DC Comics
Like Man of Steel stories? Super!
- We mustache the question about Henry Cavill’s facial hair.
- That time-reversal he did in the original movie wouldn’t work so well.
- Superman’s history of fighting prejudice could become a movie.
