Cleveland, the true birthplace of the iconic superhero, Superman, is now home to a magnificent new statue that celebrates this beloved character. While we often think of Metropolis or Krypton when discussing Man of Steel, it is Cleveland that truly embodies Superman’s roots. This impressive statue, which stands proudly atop an 18-foot pillar, pays homage to the legacy of Superman and his creators.
This past weekend, the Siegel & Schuster Society, named after the brilliant minds behind Superman, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, unveiled the statue in a dedicated tribute plaza. Crafted from durable stainless steel, this tribute not only represents the superhero but also honors the creative spirits that brought him to life. Adjacent to this striking statue is a bronze representation of Siegel, Shuster, and Joanne Siegel, who originally inspired the character of Lois Lane. In this artwork, the trio gazes into the distance, with Schuster illustrating on his pad, symbolizing creativity and inspiration. Completing the plaza is a 9-foot steel and glass phone booth featuring Clark Kent’s Daily Planet attire, signifying his readiness to embark on heroic adventures. While it may not be the famed Hall of Justice mural, these displays offer an engaging experience well worth a visit if you’re in the area.
In a heartfelt statement, Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne expressed, “The Superman statue and the Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster Tribute Plaza honor two creative minds and celebrate Cleveland’s legacy of imagination, resilience, and hope. Superman was born in Cuyahoga County, and his story reflects our own: ordinary people doing extraordinary things to make the world better. This plaza is a point of pride for our community, serving as a gathering place for families, fans, and future heroes to be inspired by the possibilities that lie ahead.”
Cleveland joins a growing list of cities that have celebrated Superman with dedicated statues, following the notable installation in Metropolis, Illinois, which features a 15-foot statue and another of Lois Lane nearby. Since 1979, Metropolis has hosted an annual Superman Celebration, attracting fans and celebrities alike to commemorate this iconic character. This past June, stars from various Superman adaptations, including Superman & Lois actress Elizabeth Tulloch and Smallville‘s Kristin Kreuk, joined the festivities, underscoring the enduring popularity of the superhero.
The Superman franchise has achieved remarkable success, grossing over $3.7 billion globally. The latest iteration, directed by James Gunn, has already amassed more than $550 million worldwide, showcasing the character’s timeless appeal and cultural significance.
