Imagine a world where Clark Kent never existed. A world where the last son of Krypton wasn’t raised on a Kansas farm by two loving parents but instead grew up under the tutelage of Lex Luthor—the most brilliant yet morally ambiguous mind in Metropolis.
What kind of hero (or villain) would Superman become? Would he still stand for truth and justice, or would he be molded into something far darker?
In this deep dive, we’ll explore how Superman’s upbringing under Luthor’s guidance could have altered his destiny, reshaped the DC Universe, and changed the very concept of heroism itself.
Nature vs. Nurture: The Core Debate
One of the most enduring philosophical debates in storytelling is Nature vs. Nurture—are we shaped by our genetics, or do our surroundings define us?
Superman, as we know him, is a product of his Kryptonian heritage and the values instilled in him by the Kents.
But what happens when the second half of that equation is replaced by a man who sees power as a means to control?
The Kent Vs. Luthor Influence!
| Aspect | Raised by the Kents (Canon) | Raised by Luthor (Alternate) |
|---|---|---|
| Moral Compass | Strong sense of justice, compassion, humility | Ruthless pragmatism, power-focused ideology |
| Identity | Clark Kent, humble farm boy | Alexander Kent, corporate prodigy |
| Powers | Used for selfless heroism | Possibly weaponized for global domination |
| View of Humanity | Believes in their potential for good | Sees them as weak and easily controlled |
If Lex Luthor discovered the infant Kal-El before the Kents, his influence would have shaped the future Superman into a very different being—perhaps one more akin to Injustice Superman or the Red Son version of the character.
Lex Luthor’s Agenda: Power Above All
Lex Luthor has always been obsessed with control. His hatred for Superman stems from his belief that no single being should wield such godlike power—especially not an alien. However, what if that power was his to mold?
Luthor’s potential motivations for raising Superman could be:
- Creating the Ultimate Weapon – He could see Kal-El as the key to ruling the world through sheer force.
- An Heir to His Legacy – Grooming Superman as his successor in both business and politics.
- A Controlled Hero – A Superman that does Luthor’s bidding, acting as Metropolis’ protector under his command.
In this reality, Superman might not wear a red cape at all. Instead, he could become a corporate enforcer, a political figure, or even a shadowy figure eliminating threats to Luthor’s empire.
How This Would Change the DC Universe
A Superman raised by Lex Luthor would send ripples throughout the entire DC Universe. Here’s how it might impact key characters:
Batman: Friend or Foe?
In canon, Batman sees Superman as a potential threat but ultimately respects him. In this alternate timeline, Bruce Wayne might be forced to lead a resistance against Luthor’s Kryptonian enforcer, effectively making him the true hero of this universe.
The Joker’s Role
If Superman were an instrument of Luthor, the Joker might become a twisted version of a hero—trying to bring down the establishment by any means necessary.
Wonder Woman’s Dilemma
Diana fights for peace, but would she stand against a Superman who believes he’s bringing “order” to the world? This could create an ideological war between them.
The Justice League? Or The Luthor League?
Would Superman even allow a Justice League to form? Or would it become an organization controlled by Luthor, ensuring the world’s most powerful heroes followed his version of justice?
Related: Is Zack Snyder’s Justice League the True DCEU Canon? A Deep Dive into the Debate!
The Psychological & Philosophical Implications
A Superman raised by Luthor wouldn’t just be a story about power; it would be a psychological thriller exploring the depths of control and morality.
- Would he ever discover the truth about his origins?
- Could he break free from Luthor’s grasp?
- Would there be a Lois Lane to guide him towards a better path?
It raises the question: Can even the strongest being break free from manipulation and indoctrination?
Alternative Interpretations & Fan Theories
Some fans speculate that if Superman were raised by Luthor, he might eventually turn on his adoptive father—realizing that true leadership doesn’t come from control but from inspiring others.
This could lead to an epic civil war between Superman and Luthor, culminating in a battle for the soul of Metropolis.
Others theorize that Luthor might genuinely love Superman as a son, leading to a morally gray anti-hero version of Superman who enforces order with a strict but fair hand.
Related: The Psychology of Batman: Why His Trauma Created Gotham’s Greatest Hero!
Final Thoughts: Would This Superman Be a Hero or a Tyrant?
Superman’s story is one of hope because he was raised with love and moral guidance. Take that away, and the most powerful being on Earth could become its greatest dictator—or its greatest tragedy.
But the biggest question remains: Would he ever break free and become a hero despite his upbringing? Or would he forever remain in Luthor’s shadow?
Let’s discuss! What do you think would happen if Lex Luthor raised Superman? Would he be a hero, villain, or something in between?
Drop your thoughts in the comments!