Fri Sep 20 12:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Superman Takes on the KKK: New Podcast Explores the Iconic Superhero’s Early Fight Against Hate
A new podcast, “Superman vs. the KKK,” delves into the Man of Steel’s first encounter with the infamous hate group, revealing a surprising and timely story dating back to a 1946 radio serial.
Hosted by Roth Cornet and Marc Bernardin, the five-part podcast examines how the radio serial, “The Adventures of Superman,” showcased the iconic superhero battling the KKK.
Cornet, known for her work on the “Galaxy Quest” documentary, explains that the podcast explores “the story of the world’s first superhero battling America’s oldest hate group, each representing an oppositional – and not entirely real – version of America.”
The podcast draws inspiration from Rick Bowers’ book, “Superman Versus the KKK: The True Story of How the Iconic Superhero Battled the Men of Hate,” which highlights how the KKK, rebranded by a PR company, used media to spread its hateful message.
“They packaged, sold, and even franchised ‘hate,’” says Cornet. “This stopped me in my tracks, because I realized that this was the story of two forces using the power of media … to try to persuade an audience to embrace their [very different] versions of what it means to embody ‘Truth, Justice, and the American Way.’”
“Superman vs. the KKK” argues that understanding Superman’s portrayal throughout history provides insight into American culture, as the hero embodies or reacts to the prevailing societal norms.
Cornet emphasizes the impact of media on shaping our identities and perceptions. She warns, “We absolutely need to understand how the media is working, which is challenging because, in many ways, it’s invisible to us. It’s in and a part of everything we do.”
The podcast explores the contrasting ideologies of “The American Way,” highlighting how the KKK and Superman presented competing visions of America.
“Superman vs. the KKK” aims to promote deeper appreciation for Superman and the power of storytelling in confronting societal issues. Cornet hopes listeners will gain a better understanding of how media influences our thoughts and emotions, stressing the importance of critical thinking and media literacy in today’s world.
“We don’t need to hate each other. We really never do,” she concludes.
All five episodes of “Superman vs. the KKK” are available to stream now.
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