Episode 153 - An Interview with Paul Kaminski

In this episode of Men of Steel, Case flies solo for a truly super conversation with Paul Kaminski, Superman Group Editor at DC Comics. From current titles to legacy influences, Paul shares behind-the-scenes insights on shaping the world of Superman across books, teams, and timelines. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious how the cape stays iconic decade after decade, this one's for you!

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Men of Steel Full Episode

Originally aired: September 12, 2025

Edited by Sophia Ricciardi

Scored by Geoff Moonen

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Overview

• Paul Kaminski oversees Superman titles and other major DC Comics characters as Group Editor for Metropolis Group, leveraging 17 years of industry experience.
• Kaminski's entry into comics was inspired by classic series and publications, shaping his understanding of the comic creation process at an early age.
• The Superman editorial philosophy combines elements from various iconic eras, emphasizing a vision inspired by the 90s Animated Series and Fleischer cartoons.
• A unified visual style for the Super Family has been implemented, with distinct designs to maintain Superman's uniqueness within the group.
• Current Superman publishing strategy includes three core titles, each catering to different narratives, with significant arcs like Action #1100 planned for fall 2026.
• The Legion of Darkseid storyline is a pivotal upcoming focus across Superman issues, essential for the future of DC Comics.
• Kaminski champions Atomic Skull as an underutilized villain, highlighting previous successful narratives like Phil Jimenez's Superwoman work.
• Plans for Zod storylines are in development, with original concepts influenced by sci-fi classics like Star Trek II: Wrath of Khan.
• He advises artists to specialize in genres and network at conventions, while encouraging writers to start with smaller companies or licensed comics.
• Kaminski addresses misconceptions about creators' intentions, advocating for fans to read comics with an open mind regarding character developments.

 

Notes

‍️ Paul Kaminski's Background and Role (01:50 - 11:15)

• Paul Kaminski serves as Group Editor for Metropolis Group at DC Comics, overseeing Superman titles, Green Lantern, Aquaman, Flash, Green Arrow, and Justice League.
• DC Comics currently operates three editorial groups: Metropolis Group, Gotham Group, and newly formed Themyscira Group led by Brittany Holzer.
• Kaminski has 17 years of experience in comics industry, starting at Archie Comics and working on Sonic the Hedgehog before joining DC in 2015.

Getting Into Comics and Career Development (03:09 - 12:31)

• Kaminski's entry into comics began with X-Men animated series at age 7-8, followed by purchasing Wolverine #76 and Death of Superman trade paperback.
• Pizza Hut X-Men video featuring Bob Harris, Fabian Nicieza, and Scott Lobdell was formative in understanding comic creation process.
• Early editorial experience involved learning hands-on approach vs. hands-off approach to editing, with first major lesson being 'editing is not writing the comic yourself.'

‍️ Superman Editorial Philosophy and Approach (19:23 - 20:46)

• Kaminski's Superman vision draws from 90s Animated Series, combining elements of Fleischer cartoons, George Reeves TV show, and Triangle Era comics.
• Hired Joshua Williamson as writer for Superman relaunch based on their successful collaboration on Dark Crisis.
• Selected Jamal Campbell as artist after being impressed by his work on Naomi, particularly Superman fight scene.

Super Family Organization and Visual Identity (32:03 - 32:03)

• Implemented unified visual style for Super Family with matching jackets designed by Dan Mora, inspired by Jim Lee's X-Men era.
• Action Comics #1051 cover serves as mission statement for organized Super Family approach.
• Superman intentionally remains only cape-wearing member to maintain visual distinction within the family.

Current and Future Superman Publishing Strategy (13:51 - 40:27)

• Three core Superman titles serve different purposes: Superman (future/All-In storylines), Superman Unlimited (present-day Kryptonite kingdom stories), Action Comics (past/Superboy canonical stories).
• Action #1100 is being planned for fall 2026 with major story arc.
• Legion of Darkseid storyline spans Superman issues #28-30 as crucial future DC direction.

‍️ Character Development and Villain Preferences (36:00 - 39:04)

• Strong advocacy for Atomic Skull as underutilized villain, praising Phil Jimenez's rehabilitation storyline in Superwoman.
• Plans brewing for Zod storylines with hints being dropped across current issues.
• 'Kneel Before Zod' book was originally inspired by Star Trek II: Wrath of Khan approach, even approaching director Nick Meyer to write it.

Industry Advice and Misconceptions (16:39 - 43:08)

• For artists: Focus on specific genre specialization and build community networks through conventions and local studios.
• For writers: Target small companies first, pursue licensed comics as entry point, especially Star Trek.
• Biggest fan misconception: Creators aren't intentionally trying to destroy favorite characters - encourages reading comics 'in good faith.'