Podcast Categories: Leisure

Nearly eight decades ago, The Adventures of Superman radio show pitted the Man of Steel against the forces of hate and white supremacy while exposing the inner workings of the Ku Klux Klan. Now, Fandom is releasing  a new five-part serial podcast, looking at the creation and historical significance of Superman vs.The KKK.

The podcast–which is partially inspired by author Rick Bowers’ book, Superman vs. The Ku Klux Klan–chronicles the way that the 1946 storyline, “Clan of the Fiery Cross” confronted the entangled history of the KKK in American life, and disavowed the reality of its racist violence; offering a new, powerful version of “The American Way” that would last for generations.

The podcast explores the inception and rise in popularity of both Superman and the Klan, how they each used the tools of the media to brand and sell their version of what it means to be “100% American,” and how the two became intertwined in this iconic story arc. In this series, we discover how the clash between these two versions of “The American Way”–and the ensuing battle for the heart’s of the United States citizens–developed, and why that fight has never been more relevant. It’s a fascinating exploration for anyone who is a fan of the Man of Steel, comic-book culture, and the complexities of American history.

Executive producer Roth Cornet hosts the podcast alongside celebrated journalist, writer, and podcaster Marc Bernardin.

“This story is an incredible mix of journalism, brand activism, and the power of pop culture to change the world,” said Cornet. “We live in an era where fans identify themselves by the things they love, so there is incredible power in harnessing this passion to make an impact.”

Even after 80 years, Superman remains a stalwart fixture at the forefront of pop culture as we await DC studios newest iteration of the iconic hero. Whether another version of Superman can ever again cross from his fictional universe to impact ours, remains to be seen