Posted on June 23, 2025 by Chris Brockow
This year's Superman Celebration in Metropolis, Illinois may have been a bit soggy, but it was - without a doubt - one of the most memorable weekends Helen and I have ever had.
Things got off to a great start on Thursday night when Helen and I had the absolute pleasure of having dinner with our dear friends Lisa Nolt Copenhaver, her husband Arno, and Greg and Sandy Moffett. It was the perfect way to ease into the weekend - good food, better company, and lots of laughter. Later that evening, we were thrilled to welcome Brad and Marcia Shey, who made it in just in time to join the festivities. That night also featured the return of the Super Friends Bowling event, which, as always, was a fun and relaxed way to reconnect with old friends and meet new ones.
Friday marked the official start of the Celebration, and what a meaningful start it was. Morgan Siebert gave a beautiful tribute to her late father, Jim Hambrick. She spoke from the heart about the Super Museum, the dream her father worked so hard to bring to life, and the iconic Superman statue he helped make a reality. Morgan and her husband Adam then shared a touching video filled with memories and tributes from friends and fans whose lives were touched by Jim. Afterward, Morgan unveiled the brand-new Jim Hambrick Historic Marker, now proudly displayed right in front of the Super Museum. It was a powerful and emotional moment - one that reminded me why we all gather here year after year.
Not long after, it was time for our event: Stump the Superman Expert, now in its 15th year. I'm always so grateful for everyone who shows up to test their knowledge and join the fun. But this year, something truly unexpected and unforgettable happened. From the back of the tent, a man asked a question - and it was our son, Jason Mangen. He had driven all the way from Iowa with his girlfriend Megan to surprise me for a belated birthday visit. Neither Helen nor I had any idea he was coming. It was the first time Jason had been to Metropolis since 1998. Sharing the Celebration with him again after all these years was a blessing I'll never forget.
The rest of the day was filled with some great Q&A panels. First up was Michael Ironside, followed by Anais Fairweather, both of whom had fantastic insights and stories to share. Then came one of my favorite events - Superman Jeopardy, hosted by the Rinaldi family. Always a blast! That was followed by Zach Curtis's first-time panel, "Up, Up & Acquired! Superman Collecting 101," which drew a lot of interest. While Helen and I called it a night after that, the evening continued with wrestling matches and the highly anticipated Metropolis Moonlight Prom.
Saturday kicked off with the traditional Honorary Citizen of Metropolis Swearing-In Ceremony, which is always a fun and meaningful moment for fans. We had another round of Superman Jeopardy, and then the day was filled with an amazing lineup of Q&A sessions. Odette Annable started things off, followed by Dean Cain - hosted by Zach Curtis - who always draws a big crowd. After that, Morgan Siebert hosted author Ed Gross, and then I had the honor of hosting Reb Brown's panel. The final Q&A of the day was the Comic Creators Panel featuring Bob McLeod and Gavin Smith, both of whom shared fantastic stories and insight into their work.
That evening, the streets came alive with live music from the always entertaining Jamie Aaron Kelley, who treated us to a mix of Ray Charles, Elvis Presley, U2, and more - all with his signature flair. At the same time, Tim Gardner hosted the Collectors Auction and brought back the beloved George Award, which hadn't been presented in years. This year's recipient was none other than Jerry "The King" Lawler. The night concluded with a breathtaking Super Drone Show by Skyglow Drone Productions, lighting up the skies over Metropolis in spectacular fashion.
Sunday, the final day of the Celebration, was sunny and dry - and the hottest day of the weekend. Things started off with the Superdog Eating Contest, always a fan favorite. Then came the final round of Superman Jeopardy, and finally, the Costume Contest, which we unfortunately had to miss. We said our goodbyes to Jason and Megan and headed back to pack, grateful for every moment we'd shared.
As I reflect on this year's Celebration, I'm filled with gratitude. A heartfelt thanks to Karla Ogle, Lisa Gower, and everyone at the Chamber of Commerce for all their hard work in putting together another incredible Superman Celebration. Every year, I wonder how the next one could possibly top the last - and yet, somehow, it always does.
Until next year, Metropolis. We can't wait to see everyone again in 2026. Up, up, and away!
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