Action Comics #598 (March 1988)
Action Comics #598 (March 1988)
Hey, that’s a neat cover. The issue itself is basically a backdoor pilot for Checkmate, DC’s then-new espionage series, but thankfully it doesn’t feel like they just shoehorned Superman into a Checkmate story. We see the regular supporting cast and all: Jimmy strikes out with Cat, Cat strikes out with Clark, and Clark strikes out with Lois. There’s so much unresolved sexual tension in the Daily Planet offices. I’m convinced Alice the intern is having illicit sex with Whit in the supply closet.
Anyway, a diplomat from Qurac visits Metropolis to denounce Superman for invading his country a while back (just like that Booster Gold robot imposter did a few issues ago). Lois Lane is sent to interview the diplomat, and naturally they both get kidnapped by Arab extremists, because Lois is haunted. Superman is a little busy dealing with a hijacked aircraft carrier, so Lois and the diplomat are rescued by a Checkmate Knight – yes, all operatives are named after chess pieces, but if you ask me they missed a huge opportunity by not making this guy’s helmet look like a horse head.
Another Knight helps Superman defuse the aircraft situation, and the diplomat leaves the country safe and sound… only for Checkmate to blow up his airplane in the air. They didn’t really want to save his life, you see, they just wanted him to die outside US territory.
Plotline-Watch:
Superman Loves Wonder Woman: It’s revealed that while the superheroes were saving the world in the recent Millennium crossover, Superman was ogling Wonder Woman, which explains why he kept covering the front of his super-shorts with his cape during the crowd scenes in that series. Superman still has the hots for Wondy, as revealed back when he had that wet dream about her in Superman #5. This plot will reach its, ahem, climax in Action #600.
See comments on Tumblr: https://superman86to99.tumblr.com/post/65158118562/action-comics-598-march-1988-hey-thats-a#disqus_thread
Missed an issue? Looking for an old storyline? Check out our new chronological issue index!
This newsletter is free and always will be, but if you'd like to support us with $1 a month or more, you'll get access to extra articles about non-continuity '90s Superman stuff (shows, video games, Elseworlds, etc) and cool giveaways. Click here to become a paid supporter!