"Crisis on Infinite Earths" has served up a number of fan-favorite moments and cameos. Undoubtedly, the biggest has been Brandon Routh's return as Clark Kent/Superman from Earth-96.
While no one can dispute that Routh already had the necessary look in 2006's Superman Returns, he's also showcased the personality and X factor to convince as the Man of Steel. "Crisis on Infinite Earths" was meant to be about the Arrowverse heroes' sacrifices to save the Multiverse, but Routh has stolen the show whenever he appears on-screen.
The fans took notice of it, too, and social media buzzed with people calling for a Kingdom Come TV series starring Routh as Big Blue. Considering the overwhelmingly positive reception from fans and critics alike, it must be something that's crossed the minds of the head honchos at The CW, however unlikely it is to happen.
On the one hand, it's good to see Routh finally being appreciated for his stint as Superman, because he portrayed an exceptional version of the character in a subpar movie. So, if this is his swansong, at least he received a proper and fitting sendoff.
Then again, Routh's Superman effectively stunted Tyler Hoechlin's version of the character from achieving any form of legendary status in the Arrowverse. His popularity is Hoechlin's downfall here. What makes it even worse is that The CW recently announced a new show titled Superman & Lois, with Hoechlin and Elizabeth Tulloch in the titular roles.
From the get-go, Hoechlin's Man of Steel has had a tough time. His look and portrayal haven't been widely accepted by large portions of the fanbase, while others feel his role as a supporting character on Supergirl did him more harm than good. For many fans, Superman is meant to be an iconic hero at the front and center of the DC Universe -- not merely as a plot device to further Kara Danver's story.
"Crisis on Infinite Earths" would've been the ideal opportunity to establish Hoechlin's Superman as a legitimate hero. Instead, he failed to be included as one of the Paragons capable of defeating the Anti-Monitor, with Routh's Man of Steel taking his place in the seven. From a storyline perspective, this tells the audience he isn't as powerful as Earth-96's version of the character.
More importantly, Hoechlin's Superman has been something of a passenger throughout the crossover so far. While Routh's version of the character has interacted and participated in the major events, the other Man of Steel has been standing around and smiling like a goof for no reason. And, to add further salt to the wounds, Routh displayed more chemistry with Tulloch's Lois than Hoechlin ever has.
Unquestionably, the excitement around Routh's Superman is partially due to the nostalgia factor, but it does raise some questions about Hoechlin's upcoming TV series. If the Arrowverse fans aren't even behind the actor who'll be portraying the Man of Steel on an ongoing basis, why should anyone else care? In terms of popularity right now, it looks like Hoechlin is stuck in his own Fortress of Solitude.
"Crisis on Infinite Earths" will return after the winter hiatus. The crossover will conclude on Tuesday, Jan. 14 in Arrow at 8 p.m. ET/PT and in DC's Legends of Tomorrow at 9 p.m. ET/PT. The Supergirl, Batwoman and Flash episodes are now available to stream on The CW.