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Steel (Superman)
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Creation & Design

Steel was created in response to the death of Superman, representing hope and resilience.

Early Years

John Henry Irons was a weapons designer who turned against his own creations after realizing their destructive potential. He became Steel to honor Superman's legacy.

Character Development

Over the years, Steel has evolved from a mere replacement for Superman to a fully realized character with his own identity, struggles, and triumphs.

Cultural Reception

Steel has been well-received as a character who embodies the spirit of heroism and resilience, especially in the wake of Superman's death.

Character Details

Real Name:
John Henry Irons
First Appearance:
Adventures of Superman #500
Aliases:
Steel, Man of Steel, Iron Man
Species:
Human
Gender:
Male
Affiliations:
Justice League, Superman Family, Steel Family
Abilities:
Superhuman strength, Flight, Advanced technology
Equipment:
Steel armor, Hammer, Various gadgets
Weight:
250lbs
Height:
6' 3"
Eye Color:
brown
Hair Color:
black

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Adventures of Superman #500
DC ⋅ 1993
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Adventures of Superman #500
 
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Key Facts

1st appearance of John Henry, later becomes Steel

1st appearance of Superboy, Conner Kent

1st appearance of Cyborg Superman, formerly Hank Henshaw

1st appearance of the Eradicator

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Each character was introduced briefly in this issue, then featured in their own individual issues thereafter

1st appearance of Angora Lapin, later becomes White Rabbit

Superman: The Man of Steel #22
DC ⋅ 1993
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Superman: The Man of Steel #22
 
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Key Facts

1st appearance and origin of John Henry as Steel, in costume, previously appeared in Adventures of Superman #500 but not in costume

Steel #1
DC ⋅ 1994
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Steel #1
 
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Key Facts

1st appearance of Natasha Irons, later becomes Steel in Action Comics #806

Steel Annual #1
DC ⋅ 1994
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Steel Annual #1
 
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Key Facts

First cover art by Humberto Ramos

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