Is the Superman in CW’s Superman and Lois the Same as in Supergirl?
The question of whether the Superman in CW’s Superman and Lois is the same as the one in Supergirl has been a topic of discussion among fans. This article will delve into the details of Earth-Prime, the role of the Arrowverse, and the impact of multiverse events on the storylines of both shows.
Understanding the Arrowverse and Earth-Prime
The Arrowverse, popularized by television series such as Arrow, Flash, The Flash, Batman vs. Superman, and Supergirl, operates within a complex multiverse. However, at the end of the Crisis on Infinite Earths crossover event, a new Earth, called Earth-Prime, was created, collapsing the various Earths from the Arrowverse into a single, unified universe.
Earth-38 and the Rise of Earth-Prime
One of the key points of confusion has been Earth-38, the Earth where Supergirl was set. Season 2 of Superman and Lois addressed this directly. While initially, it was thought that Supergirl exists on another Earth, it was ultimately confirmed that Superman and Lois are not part of the Earth-Prime continuity.
Supergirl’s Absence in Superman and Lois
From the onset, there were plans for Supergirl to appear in season one of Superman and Lois. However, due to the strict coronavirus protocols and the cancellation of in-person crossovers, this plan was shelved. The absence of Sara Lance (Supergirl) in Superman and Lois has led to speculation and fan theories regarding her fate and the overall continuity.
The Impact of Multiverse Events on Continuity
The Crisis on Infinite Earths at the end of 2020 significantly revised the Arrowverse continuity. This event did more than just consolidate Earths; it also introduced elements of multiple Earths, with their respective histories and events. This made the continuity of Arrowverse shows somewhat fluid, but largely consistent.
For instance, the Elseworlds event from Batman depicted a version of the Arrowverse where events and timelines were altered. In the case of Superman and Lois, the confirmation of not being part of Earth-Prime represents a significant divergence from what was initially suggested. This change asserts a different continuity for Superman and Lois, though it is still firmly rooted within the Arrowverse narrative universe.
Continuity in the Arrowverse
Superman and Lois is explicitly designed to be a part of the Arrowverse continuity. This means that, despite the divergence from the Earth-Prime concept, fans can still expect storylines that interact and reference other Arrowverse shows. The inclusion of flashbacks, such as Clark proposing to Lois during the Elseworlds event, is a clear example of this interconnected narrative.
However, the changes introduced by the multiverse events mean that viewers should be prepared for discrepancies and altered histories. While the show is integral to the Arrowverse, certain elements may not align perfectly with other Arrowverse series.
Fan Speculation and Future Possibilities
Given the strict protocols and the magnitude of crossover events, it is unlikely that Supergirl will feature prominently in Superman and Lois. Nonetheless, the show’s commitment to the Arrowverse and its characters’ histories suggests that there may still be future possibilities for crossovers or guest appearances.
For now, fans are left to appreciate the rich continuity and interconnectedness of the Arrowverse, even as each show explores its own unique storyline. The confirmed divergence of Superman and Lois from the Earth-Prime Earth-38 concept brings a fresh perspective to the superpowered world.
Final Thoughts
The question of whether the Superman in Superman and Lois is the same as in Supergirl has been answered. While the concept of Earth-Prime and Earth-38 initially suggested a connection, it has been clarified that Superman and Lois are outside of the Earth-Prime continuity. This revelation places Superman and Lois in a unique position within the Arrowverse, ensuring that the show can continue to explore its own narrative while maintaining the vast and complex universe built by the Arrowverse.