Clark Kent is coming out of the shadows and into the spotlight. As revealed in a report from The New York Times, DC Comics is set to reveal that Clark Kent and Superman are one and the same to the world. Writer Brian Michael Bendis, who is currently writing the main Superman title for the publisher, will be responsible for making this happen when Superman #18 the shelves later this year. 

“On some level, this is what DC brought me here for. I didn’t want to stir things up right away. I had to earn my place,” Bendis said. “I don’t do fake-out stories. I did a story where Daredevil was outed — a different kind of outing — but that was his reality for 15 years… We wanted to do this because behind it is 1,000 brand-new Superman stories that have never been told.”

Indeed, the idea of letting the world know who Superman really is could allow for many different types of stories to be told. That said, this isn’t a totally new idea. In 1991, after years of keeping things under wraps, Clark Kent revealed his superhero alter ego to Lois Lane. Years later, in 2015, Lois revealed who Clark was via a newspaper article, only for it to be retconned later. 

However, as Bendis tells it, the reveal is going to stick this time. Bendis is a modern comic book legend, mostly known for his work with Marvel on books like The Avengers and Spider-Man. Specifically, as the co-creator of Miles Morales. His jump to DC was a big shake-up and it’s now quite obvious he isn’t there to just toe a safe company line. 

As for what changes we can expect? It’s going to depend largely on the individuals in Superman’s life and how they process the newly revealed information. 

“Everybody who’s ever been in contact with him is going to have a completely different perspective and reaction to this,” Bendis said. “Some heroes are going to be thrilled, some heroes are going to be livid, some villains are going to change their ways.”

Another final, and perhaps more interesting question that was addressed has to do with the status of Clark Kent, the reporter. Kent works for the Daily Planet. Following the reveal, will the hero be able to perform his duties correctly? Even the Man of Steel needs a paycheck. 

“Excellent question,” Bendis said. “And I promise you that is the first thing that Greg Rucka stormed up to me with when we started working on this.” 

Here’s the official synopsis for Superman #18 

“With Superman’s family scattered across the galaxy, our hero must confront some of his greatest concerns about himself and his place in the galaxy. Legendary artist Ivan Reis joins writer Brian Michael Bendis as they introduce the biggest change in the Man of Steel’s life ever!”

Superman #18 which goes on sale on December 11th

So what do you think? Is this the right move to make? Will you be picking up this issue when it hits stands? Feel free to join in on the conversation over on Facebook or Twitter!