Jason Momoa has been cast as Lobo in DC Studios’ upcoming film Supergirl. This news was somewhat expected, as Momoa previously played Aquaman under the previous DC regime.
Now, with James Gunn taking over the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), casting Jason Momoa as Lobo seems like a logical move, as Lobo was one of the roles fans anticipated he might take on.
The DCEU recently released a teaser trailer for Superman, which is scheduled to debut in July next year. With the Super Bowl likely being used to showcase the film on a global scale, there’s growing excitement and high anticipation for the movie’s release.
Supergirl is set to hit theaters within the next couple of years, and it promises to be an interesting addition to the new DC Universe. Fans are eager to see how this new chapter unfolds under James Gunn’s leadership.
See James Gunn”s post below:
The History of Lobo: DC’s Intergalactic Bounty Hunter
Lobo, one of DC Comics’ most unconventional characters, has a rich and chaotic history. Known for his ultra-violence, dark humor, and rebellious attitude, Lobo has carved a niche as the quintessential anti-hero. Here’s a deep dive into his origins, evolution, and impact on comic book culture, with references to key creators and storylines.
Origins: A Parody of the Anti-Hero
Lobo first appeared in Omega Men #3 (June 1983), created by writer Roger Slifer and artist Keith Giffen. Originally intended as a satirical take on violent anti-heroes, Lobo was conceived as a parody of popular characters like Wolverine and the Punisher. In his debut, Lobo was a relatively obscure villain with a serious demeanor, quite different from the irreverent character he would later become.
Reinvention in the 1990s
Lobo’s transformation into a cigar-smoking, leather-clad, ultra-violent biker began in Lobo: The Last Czarnian (1990), a miniseries by Keith Giffen and Alan Grant, with art by Simon Bisley. This series redefined Lobo’s backstory, revealing that he was the last survivor of the Czarnian race—because he wiped out his own species for fun.
This iteration of Lobo became wildly popular during the 1990s, coinciding with a cultural fascination with extreme, over-the-top characters. His stories often embraced absurdity, including battles against Santa Claus and teaming up with a dog named Dawg.
Personality and Powers
Lobo is defined by his larger-than-life personality. He’s vulgar, violent, and unapologetically self-centered, yet he operates by a strict code of honor: he always keeps his word.
His powers include:
- Superhuman Strength and Durability: Comparable to characters like Superman.
- Regeneration: Making him virtually immortal.
- Expert Combat Skills: As a bounty hunter, he’s skilled with a variety of weapons and hand-to-hand combat.
Notable Storylines
- Lobo: The Last Czarnian (1990): This miniseries solidified Lobo’s place in DC Comics and introduced his bizarre humor and nihilistic worldview.
- Lobo’s Back (1992): This four-issue series explored Lobo’s escapades in the afterlife and solidified his reputation as a chaotic force.
- 52 (2006): Lobo becomes a reluctant religious figure for a group of fish-like aliens in this year-long DC crossover series.
- The New 52 Redesign (2013): DC attempted to reintroduce Lobo as a sleeker, more serious character. However, fans largely rejected this iteration, leading to the return of the classic version.
Cultural Impact
Lobo’s irreverence and ultraviolence were emblematic of 1990s comic trends. He’s been described as the “main man” and has appeared in animated series (Justice League), video games (Injustice: Gods Among Us), and even had rumors of a live-action adaptation.
References
- Omega Men #3 (1983) – Lobo’s first appearance, written by Roger Slifer and illustrated by Keith Giffen.
- Lobo: The Last Czarnian (1990) – Keith Giffen and Alan Grant’s seminal miniseries with Simon Bisley’s iconic artwork.
- Keith Giffen’s interviews, where he described Lobo as a parody of violent anti-heroes (e.g., Comic Book Resources, 2011).
- 52 (2006) – A significant crossover event showcasing Lobo’s unusual role as a religious figure.
Lobo’s evolution from a minor villain to a cultural icon underscores his adaptability and appeal to fans who appreciate chaotic, unapologetic characters. Whether as a parody or a genuine anti-hero, Lobo remains one of DC’s most memorable creations.
