Okay, from a geeky fanboy standpoint, it is kind of fantastically cool to have taped Elliot S! Maggin—not once, but twice for the podcast. And, last week, it was—again as a
fan—to get an email from him saying he liked a recent Maggin-centric column. I had so many extra Maggie things that I decided to take the rest and do another piece. Now, newer fans might not know anything about Maggin and they should. Not only was he one of the defining voices for Superman during the Bronze Age, but he was also among the last generation of creators to have known legends like Carmine Infantino and Julie Schwartz. One of the joys of taping him is hearing him recount personal stories about creators who are no longer with us.
Recently, I wrote about how the DC Universe Infinite service has huge holes in what is available for newer and die-hard fans. One of my huge annoyances, for years, has been that there is only one Action Comics for the whole 70s decade. Not only that, but DC doesn’t seem too interested in putting out more Bronze Age Superman trades.
Still, here are some notable comics that Maggin worked on, either solo or with other creators such as Cary Bates. Yes, all of these comics are worth seeking out because they are some of Superman’s tales that helped define who Superman is today.
Superman 296–299 — “Who Took the Super Out of Superman?” This four‑part arc is one of Maggin’s sharpest looks at Superman’s identity. Stripped of his powers, he’s forced to confront what remains when the abilities fall away — a theme Maggin returned to often. It’s a grounded, Bronze Age character study built on purpose, responsibility, and the moral center that defines the Man of Steel.
Superman 400 — Anniversary Issue (Framing Material) Maggin’s framing sequences anchor this milestone celebration of Superman’s legacy. Spanning centuries of future history, the material reflects his long‑running interest in how Superman’s influence extends far beyond his lifetime. It’s ambitious, forward‑looking, and fully aligned with Maggin’s themes of legacy and inspiration.
Superman Annual 9 — “Villain! Villain! Who’s Got the Villain?” A lighter entry that shows Maggin’s range. The annual mixes humor with sharp characterization, proving he could shift tone without losing emotional weight. It’s playful, but still unmistakably his voice.
There you go—a brief look at Elliot S! Maggin, and I hope newer fans check him out, because decades later, these tales still hold up. And, for the die-hard fans: When was the last time you dipped into Bronze Age Superman? No better time than now!
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