When people imagine Clark Kent, aka Superman, showing up in the Marvel Universe, their minds often leap to grand crossovers like Marvel vs. DC, JLA/Avengers, or the quirky Amalgam Universe, where Marvel and DC heroes were blended into one shared continuity. But believe it or not, Clark Kent has popped up in Marvel Comics far more often—and in far sneakier ways—than fans might expect.
These aren’t always big splashy moments either. Some are blink-and-you’ll-miss-it cameos. Others are so on-the-nose you can’t help but grin. Let’s break down every surprising time Clark Kent made his way into the world of Marvel.
The Hidden Beginning: Uncanny X-Men #98
Clark Kent’s Marvel journey unofficially began in Uncanny X-Men issue #98. This wasn’t some bold declaration or named appearance. It was a classic “Where’s Waldo” moment.
Clark and Lois Lane appear tucked into a panel, silently observing the chaos as the X-Men are attacked and eventually kidnapped by Steven Lang. This issue sets the stage for the legendary Phoenix Saga, making Clark’s presence all the more intriguing. It’s subtle, but a clever nod that only longtime fans or eagle-eyed readers would spot—especially in hindsight, thanks to his many future appearances.
Clark Kent at the Daily Bugle: Marvel Team-Up #79
From passive background character to active participant, Clark got a bit more meat on his bones in Marvel Team-Up #79. This time, he’s a guest at the Daily Bugle’s Christmas party. He even chats with Robbie Robertson.
Clark mentions that he works for a rival newspaper, which is Marvel’s sly way of tipping the hat to his Daily Planet origins. It’s not just a passing face anymore—Clark is officially part of the scenery and starting to interact with Marvel’s core characters.
Superman Meets Thor? Thor #341
One of the most charming and clever cameos happens in Thor volume 1, issue #341. After Thor loses the Donald Blake identity, he seeks help from S.H.I.E.L.D. to start anew. He adopts a new disguise: Sigurd Jarlson—complete with jeans, a ponytail, and yes, Clark Kent-style glasses.
In this very issue, Clark Kent literally bumps into Thor in disguise. And the best part? He recognizes Thor immediately but chooses to keep the secret. A wink to the audience that the world’s greatest secret identity expert knows when to keep quiet.
Reporting from Marvel’s Frontlines
Clark doesn’t just bump into heroes—he shows up to cover the action like the dedicated journalist he is.
- Captain America #260: Clark is seen at a press conference at Riker’s Island.
- Secret Wars II: He reports from Beyonder’s Island.
- Avengers #228: Clark weighs in on the infamous Hank Pym trial, calling it the “trial of the century.” (For context, Pym had been framed by Egghead for stealing adamantium.)
- Avengers #296: Possibly Clark appears here as one of several reporters knocked aside by Thor and Black Knight, though this sighting is more debatable.
- Avengers #327: Clark cracks a quip about Rage, comparing his speed to—you guessed it—a speeding bullet.
- Ghost Rider Vol. 3 #66: Clark tries to protect Lois from Blackout and nearly says, “This is a job for Superman,” before being cut off. Classic.
Dancing with She-Hulk and Watching the Mutants Fight
Clark’s Marvel escapades even include lighter and more humorous moments.
- Avengers #325: He shares a dance with She-Hulk. Just a nice little moment that’s as odd as it is delightful.
- Amazing Spider-Man Annual #23: Clark watches She-Hulk storm out of J. Jonah Jameson’s office after an offensive editorial.
- Uncanny X-Men Annual #10 (aka X-Men Annual #10): During a fight between the X-Men and New Mutants—thanks to Mojo’s twisted game show antics—Clark Kent is in the audience, witnessing the bizarre showdown unfold.
Civil War and Mjolnir: Fantastic Four #538
Even during Marvel’s iconic Civil War event, Clark manages to slip in. In Fantastic Four issue #538, after Thor’s hammer crashes into New Mexico, a long line of characters line up to try lifting it. Among them? Clark Kent.
A cheeky nod to Superman’s worthiness (or lack thereof?) in a Marvel context. It’s never addressed beyond the visual, but the implication is gold for comic fans.
Rescued by Namorita: Web of Spider-Man #75
One of Clark’s most amusing Marvel moments comes in Web of Spider-Man #75. New York is hit by a supernatural snowstorm caused by a trio of mystical artists known as the Avant Guard—Bora, Spark, and their reality-warping leader, the Painter.
As chaos unfolds and the New Warriors arrive to help, Clark is rescued by Namorita. His comment? He’s on his honeymoon—confirming once again that Lois is by his side in this strange alternate Marvel existence.
Why These Cameos Matter
What makes all these little appearances so delightful is that they’re never disruptive. They don’t pull focus or scream for attention. Instead, they reward dedicated fans who love catching Easter eggs and imagining the hidden multiversal links between the worlds of Marvel and DC.
Sometimes he’s just a background character. Sometimes he interacts with the main cast. And other times, he’s one sarcastic comment away from revealing his superhuman nature. But every time he shows up, it’s a reminder of the fun and mutual respect that occasionally bridges the comic book industry’s biggest rivals.
