Cleveland finally gives its hometown hero the recognition he deserves
After years of planning and anticipation, Cleveland officially welcomed Superman home this weekend with the grand unveiling of two impressive statues at the newly christened Superman Plaza, located at the Huntington Bank Convention Center downtown.
A Long-Overdue Tribute
The ceremony on Saturday drew dozens of Superman fans and Cleveland residents to witness the dedication of what many consider a long-overdue tribute to the city’s most famous fictional export. The plaza honors not just the iconic superhero, but the creative minds behind him who called Cleveland home.
The centerpiece is a towering 18-foot statue depicting Superman soaring through the sky in classic heroic pose. But perhaps more meaningful is the companion statue celebrating the real heroes of this story: Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, the two young men from Cleveland’s Glenville neighborhood who created Superman in the 1930s.
Honoring the Creators and Their Inspiration
The second statue pays tribute to the creative trio that brought Superman to life. Siegel, who wrote and conceptualized the character, and Shuster, who provided the iconic artwork, are depicted alongside Joanne Siegel. She not only served as the inspiration for Lois Lane but spent years advocating for Cleveland to embrace its connection to Superman’s origins.
“Jerry and Joe gave the world a hero, and now Cleveland has given them a fitting tribute,” said Gary Kaplan, President of the Siegel & Shuster Society and cousin of Jerry Siegel.
As a charming nod to Superman lore, the plaza also features a classic telephone booth reminiscent of Clark Kent’s famous changing room.
Welcome home, Superman. #ThisIsCLE pic.twitter.com/DWopG6MubV
— Greater Cleveland Partnership (@GreaterCLE) August 2, 2025
Perfect Timing with Hollywood Connection
The statue unveiling comes at an opportune moment for Cleveland’s Superman connection. The recent Superman film, released in July, was partially shot in the city last summer, bringing significant economic benefits. According to the Greater Cleveland Film Commission, the Superman production was one of six films that contributed to $77.8 million in spending across Northeast Ohio in 2024, hiring thousands of local background actors and vendors while generating millions in hotel bookings.
A Community Investment
The $2.5 million project represents a significant investment in celebrating Cleveland’s cultural heritage. While funding is still being sought to complete payment for the statues, the Siegel & Shuster Society continues accepting donations to honor this important piece of Cleveland history.
County Executive Chris Ronayne captured the sentiment perfectly during the unveiling: “Superman was born in Cuyahoga County, and his story reflects our own: ordinary people doing extraordinary things to make the world better.”
Superman Plaza now stands as both a tourist destination and a symbol of Cleveland’s creative legacy.
Thanks to Bob Morehead for some of these photos.
