Jerry Siegel

Early Life and Interest in Science Fiction

Jerry Siegel was born in Cleveland, Ohio, to Jewish immigrants from Lithuania. From a young age, he developed a passion for science fiction and adventure stories, which led him to write his own stories and publish them in fanzines, setting the stage for his future career in comic books.

Friendship with Joe Shuster

While attending high school, Siegel became friends with Joe Shuster, a talented artist. Their friendship led to creative collaborations, as they worked together on various projects that would later shape the world of comic books.

The Creation of Superman

In 1933, Siegel and Shuster created Superman but initially struggled to sell the character to publishers. After reworking Superman as a comic strip hero, they sold him to DC Comics in 1938. The character became an instant success, resonating with the American audience and launching a multimedia franchise.

Superman’s Iconic Costume and Cultural Impact

Superman’s iconic costume—featuring blue tights, a red cape, and the famous “S” symbol—quickly became one of the most recognizable superhero outfits. Siegel’s creation of Superman not only defined his career but also set the standard for superhero design and storytelling in popular culture.

Other Creations for DC Comics

Beyond Superman, Siegel’s creativity extended to several lesser-known characters for DC Comics, including Doctor Occult, The Spectre, and Superboy, further demonstrating his impact on the comic book world.

Legal Battles Over Superman

Siegel and Shuster sold the rights to Superman to DC Comics for just $130. Over the years, they sued DC Comics multiple times for a fair share of the profits and credit for their creation. In 1975, they reached a settlement, receiving a lifetime stipend and credit on all Superman products.

Later Career and Work for Marvel Comics

Siegel continued writing for various comic publishers, even working for Marvel Comics under the pseudonym Joe Carter. Despite his continued contributions to the comic book industry, he retired in the 1960s.

Legacy and Death

Jerry Siegel passed away in 1996 at the age of 81. His creation of Superman remains one of the most influential and enduring contributions to the world of comic books and popular culture, forever cementing his legacy as a pioneer in the superhero genre.