Have you ever come across the totally believable claim that hidden in Seinfeld there’s a Superman in every episode somewhere? It’s so possible and plausible that it has become one of the most often quoted “facts” of hidden objects or references in television history. But is there any truth behind the claim that Seinfeld has a reference to Superman in every episode? In a disappointingly short answer, no. It’s a total fallacy with just a little hint of truth to set the rumor mill running. So what exactly was it that set this myth off?
To begin with, Seinfeld is reportedly a huge Superman fan. But is that enough to include a reference or object in every episode? Well, of course it is, and Seinfeld does include a Superman reference in nearly every episode, but not all. There are several episodes that don’t have anything at all to do with the caped crusader.
One such episode is the episode called “The Subway” which has no references or images of the Man of Steel even once. But many people point to obscure references throughout the show. If that isn’tr enough to suffice, they point to the magnet on Jerry’s fridge or the Superman figurine in his apartment. While these are unmistakable references, the magnet first appeared in season four, and the figurine turned up in season five, leaving nothing but innuendo and vague references for the preceding three seasons.
Another obvious point of reference that conspiracy theorists point to is the appearance of Teri Hatcher in the show. For those who are unaware, Teri Hatcher portrayed the role of Lois Lane in the Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman television show. Is this a long bow to draw? It certainly is, because Teri Hatcher appeared in Seinfeld before Lois & Clark, making any reference to her only coincidental.
While Seinfeld doesn’t include Superman in every episode, die hard fans will continue to look, and study in great detail for any sign of Superman. This is despite the fact that Barry Frieman, another Superman fanatic has also studied the show for even the most vague of reference and couldn’t find any in some episodes.
But I will end with this worthwhile point. The finished product that we get to view is not exactly what was filmed. Due to time constraints, some shows go on for a little too long, and to make them fit into the required time slot requires scenes to be shot again, or completely cut from the episode. It is completely plausible that Seinfeld intended to include Superman in every episode, but the reference just didn’t survive the cutting room floor.
