2003 TV News Archives

June 3, 2003: History Channel to Unmask Superheroes

On Monday, June 23 the History Channel will present a comprehensive look at superheroes in their feature, Comic Book Superheroes Unmasked. Besides examining comics from the earliest features in the '30s to the present, the special also interviews some of comics most well-known figures including: Denny O'Neil, Jim Steranko, Michael Chabon, Will Eisner, Mike Richardson, Kevin Smith, Frank Miller, Bradford Wright, Paul Levitz, Stan Lee, Joe Quesada, Avi Arad, and Neil Gaiman.

Recently THE PULSE had the opportunity to talk with Susan Werbe, Vice President of Historical Programming and Executive Producer of Comic Book Superheroes Unmasked.

Q: Why is the History Channel interested in comic books and superheroes?

A: Comic Book superheroes are unique and valuable part of American pop cultural history. There are themes that are explored in superhero comic books from Superman to the Sandman that are as rich and deep as the works of great literature. The perception has been that comic books are just kid stuff -- anyone who has studied or read comic books that feature superheroes knows this -- those who aren't as familiar will enjoy a great revelation upon viewing this program.

Q: How do you think public perception of superheroes and comic books has changed in recent years?

A: Motion pictures have probably had the greatest impact on the mainstream public in making them more aware of the wealth and depth of the comic book superhero universe. Most of the public has been familiar with the characters in the traditions "pantheon" of comic book superheroes -- i.e. Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Spiderman, etc. But the public is learning that there are deeper layers to the history with the discovery of characters like Daredevil, The Punisher, Blade, etc.

Q: What factors do you attribute to the changes in the way these two topics are viewed?

A: Greater awareness via media that offers more exposure to the characters and the comic book medium -- i.e. movies certainly and television programs like HBO's Spawn and WB's Smallville.

Read the complete interview at The Pulse website.

Also visit the History Channel's "Comic Book Superheroes Unmasked" mini-site where you can vote for Superman as your favorite superhero and watch a preview of this TV special.



2003 Television News

Listed below are all the Television News items archived for 2003 organized into 4 categories:

“Smallville” News:

“Justice League” and “Superman” Animated Series News: “Lois & Clark” News: Other Superman Related Television News:

Back to the News Archive Contents page.

Back to the Latest News page.