As Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster struggled to get Superman published, their first major work appeared in New Fun Comics — the first comic book to feature all-original material. Publisher Major Malcolm Wheeler-Nicholson encouraged their creativity but rarely paid them. Over the next three years, the pair built their portfolio with characters like Dr. Occult and Slam Bradley, who debuted in the new title, Detective Comics. But Wheeler-Nicholson’s new business partners — a printer and publisher with mob ties named Harry Donenfeld, and his ruthless business manager, Jack Liebowitz — forced Wheeler-Nicholson out just before launching his new book, Action Comics. When the McClure Syndicate recommended Superman to Donenfeld and Liebowitz, the character became the new comic’s lead feature. Only Siegel and Shuster had to give away all rights to Superman — in exchange for just $130 for the first story in Action Comics #1.

Featuring interviews with Bonnie Siegler, Helene Stapinski and Brad Ricca

Historical readings were by Jason Miller (Jerry Siegel), Warren Frey (Joe Shuster), Drew Meyer (Major Malcolm Wheeler-Nicholson) and Andy Hicks (Jack Liebowitz)

Special thanks to our supporters: David Matthewman, Francis Bradley, Julie Hopkins, Jim Sangster, William Hopkins, Heather Berberet and Chris Fosten.

⁠You can read the sources for today's episode on our website⁠.