Why do lex and clark become enemies

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: Lex Luthor and Clark Kent become enemies primarily due to Lex's discovery of Clark's secret identity as Superman, which occurs in the 1978 film 'Superman: The Movie' when Lex deduces Clark's powers. Their rivalry intensifies in comic storylines like 'The Death of Superman' (1992-1993), where Lex orchestrates events leading to Superman's apparent death. This enmity stems from Lex's jealousy of Superman's power and moral superiority, viewing him as a threat to human potential, as depicted in comics such as 'Superman: Birthright' (2003-2004).

Key Facts

Lex Luthor first deduces Clark Kent is Superman in the 1978 film 'Superman: The Movie', directed by Richard Donner
In the comic storyline 'The Death of Superman' (1992-1993), Lex Luthor creates the clone Doomsday to kill Superman
Lex Luthor's hatred is rooted in his belief that Superman stifles human progress, as explored in 'Superman: Birthright' (2003-2004)
Their rivalry spans over 80 years in DC Comics, starting from Superman's debut in 'Action Comics' #1 in 1938
Lex Luthor has been portrayed by actors like Gene Hackman (1978), Michael Rosenbaum (TV series 'Smallville', 2001-2011), and Jesse Eisenberg (2016 film 'Batman v Superman')

Overview

The enmity between Lex Luthor and Clark Kent, who is secretly Superman, is a central conflict in DC Comics lore, originating from Superman's debut in 'Action Comics' #1 in 1938. Lex Luthor, introduced as a mad scientist in 1940, evolves into a billionaire industrialist and Superman's archenemy, representing human ambition against alien power. Their rivalry is depicted across media, including comics, films like 'Superman: The Movie' (1978) and 'Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice' (2016), and TV shows such as 'Smallville' (2001-2011). Key events include Lex's discovery of Clark's identity, often through deductive reasoning or technological means, leading to plots like LexCorp's schemes against Metropolis. This dynamic explores themes of power, morality, and humanity, with Lex viewing Superman as an existential threat to human autonomy.

How It Works

The enmity develops through a multi-step process: first, Lex Luthor, often portrayed as a genius with an IQ over 200, suspects Clark Kent's dual identity due to inconsistencies, such as Superman's appearances coinciding with Clark's absences. In narratives like 'Superman: Birthright', Lex uses advanced surveillance and psychological profiling to confirm Clark is Superman. Once confirmed, Lex's motivations drive the conflict—his jealousy of Superman's powers, fear of alien dominance, and belief that Superman's heroism makes humanity dependent. Lex employs methods like creating villains (e.g., Doomsday in 1992-1993 comics), funding anti-Superman propaganda, and using kryptonite, a radioactive mineral from Superman's home planet Krypton that weakens him. This leads to cyclical battles where Lex's plans are thwarted by Superman, reinforcing their mutual hatred.

Why It Matters

This rivalry matters because it symbolizes larger philosophical debates: Lex represents human ingenuity and ambition, while Superman embodies altruism and hope. In real-world terms, it influences pop culture, inspiring discussions on ethics, power dynamics, and xenophobia. The conflict drives DC Comics' narrative arcs, such as 'The Death of Superman', which sold over 6 million copies in 1992-1993, impacting comic book sales and media adaptations. It also reflects societal issues, like distrust of outsiders, making it relevant to audiences. The enmity has led to iconic stories that explore what it means to be human, contributing to Superman's status as a cultural icon for over 80 years.