Wolfman blended characteristics of his recent comic-book revamp of Luthor with Gene Hackman's portrayal of the character in live-action films.

Lois Lane maintained her identity as an assertive woman with initiative, both in style and business attitude, although her dress and hairstyle were more reflective of the 1980s.

A new character to the series, inspired by Miss Tessmacher of the live-action Superman film from 1978, was Jessica Morganberry who appeared to be the ditzy blonde live-in girlfriend of Lex Luthor with whom he fully confided his schemes.

[4] During the approach of Superman's 50th anniversary, CBS teamed with Ruby-Spears to produce a new animated series hoping to tap into the zeitgeist.

[7] Wolfman had no problem adhering to the expectations of DC Comics and Warner Bros. due to his experience writing the character, but would often receive notes from CBS executives that proved challenging to work with.