Stories & background

The Blog

Key issues, debuts and villains of the Action Comics series – told with a focus on history, collectability and today’s film culture.

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From Lex Luthor to Bizarro

Villains & Foes July 13, 2026

Bizarro in Action Comics No. 254 (1959) – the twisted Superman

Only weeks after Supergirl, Action Comics No. 254 (1959) introduced a very different newcomer: Bizarro, Superman’s flawed mirror image. What began as a tragic one-off became one of DC’s quirkiest and most beloved characters.

Characters & History June 23, 2026

Supergirl in Action Comics No. 252 (1959) – and her path to the big screen

In May 1959, Action Comics No. 252 introduced a character who would forever expand the Superman universe: Supergirl. Timed with the new “Supergirl” film (2026), we look back at Kara Zor-El’s legendary debut — and the bridge from the 1959 comic to the big screen.

Villains & Foes June 16, 2026

Brainiac in Action Comics No. 242 (1958) – the collector of worlds

A year before Supergirl, Action Comics No. 242 (1958) introduced a cold, calculating super-intellect: Brainiac. With his shrinking ray he stole entire cities — and dealt Superman one of the most consequential early defeats of his career.

Villains & Foes June 9, 2026

Lex Luthor in Action Comics No. 23 (1940) – the arch-enemy takes the stage

Superman needed an equal opponent — and in Action Comics No. 23 (1940) he got one: Lex Luthor. No alien, no monster, but a brilliant human whose sharpest weapon is his mind.