Warning! Spoilers for Superman: Son of Kal-El #4
The Flash and Superman's bond is the DC Universe’s most exciting new friendship. As Jon Kent grows into the title, Wally West is showing him how it’s done.
In the previous age of DC Comics, Clark Kent AKA Superman was known for getting along with his fellow heroes. As the leader of the Justice League, teamwork comes naturally to him. As Jon Kent has grown up and taken on his father’s alter ego, he has exhibited many of Clark’s strengths. From his powers to his personality, Jon is proving to be a worthy successor as the new Man of Steel. Although he isn’t the leader of the League yet, the role is being alluded to in Superman: Son of Kal-El #4, written by Tom Taylor with art by Daniele Di Nicuolo.
When the new Superman is in need of assistance, the new Flash shows up on the scene. It had previously been established that Jon isn’t a Batman fan, once calling him “Damian’s creepy dad” in Action Comics #1035. For this reason, it might have been tricky for Jon to relate with Damian, as he grew into his father’s image. However, as Jon talks with Wally about their super speed, there are specific ways they relate to one another’s superhero careers. Not many other heroes can think as fast as they can run. As the DC Universe is setting the stage for a new age, Jon and Wally’s superhero partnership could play a big part. Instead of focusing on Jon and Damian’s friendship as a rebooted version of the World’s Finest, Superman: Son of Kal-El is bringing other heroes into the picture.
Although Wally has taken on the Flash’s persona in the past, this is only Jon’s first time taking on his dad’s responsibilities. As they both inherit iconic names and costumes, they have a lot to live up to. Clark’s Superman might be a prime example to other heroes, but Wally can show Jon his potential, having gone on a similar journey. At the moment, Jon hasn’t had many other heroes around to team up with, and Flash’s help could turn into a regular occurrence. Wally can show him how to make “Superman” his own, just like he has made “Flash” his own.
When Wally West first became the Flash, he similarly needed guidance that wasn’t available to him. With his uncle Barry Allen away, he was able to learn from other superheroes like Hawkman. Similarly, Wally can pass on such lessons to Jon, who is still finding his footing as the next Man of Tomorrow. Someday, the young Superman will lead the Justice League as his dad once did, and the Flash’s friendship could be a stepping stone.