It's time for me to tackle the age-old question, the big unsolved mystery, the never-ending debate that has caused many brutal disputes and a great deal of lost sleep - is there a Superman reference in every episode of Seinfeld?
This question is difficult to answer. Superman references come in all forms throughout the series, from the Superman figurine in Bizarro Jerry's apartment, to the time that Jerry dates a woman named Lois. If you tried to read every online article, blog post, or chatroom discussion relating to this question, you may never leave your computer. It's an ongoing debate, and some Seinfeld analysts have firmly stated their side on the issue.
The Superman magnet on Jerry's fridge is a favourite symbol of Team Superman (people who believe there is a Seinfeld reference in every episode). But disbelievers say that the magnet didn't appear on the fridge until the season four episode, "The Shoes" in 1993. They argue that before the magnet appeared, not every episode contained a Superman reference, and not every episode after had scenes showing the fridge with the magnet.
Image credit: readytogo.net
The hardcore Team Superman members consider even the most vague hints of Superman to be references. For example, Jerry is wearing Superman-like colours in the picture below from the pilot episode, "The Seinfeld Chronicles."
Image credit: dialbforblog.com
Disbelievers claim that "The Subway" (season three, episode 13) is a good example of an episode with no Superman references. Blogger Dan Hersam said the episode doesn't contain any references to Superman, Clark Kent, Lois Lane, Smallville, or Kryptonite.
I hope that with all my Seinfeld wisdom you're really impressed with my insight on this debate... I'm neither a disbeliever or a member of Team Superman! I know, terrible answer right? But I really think you could have a different answer depending on how you approach the question. First you have to define what exactly constitutes a superman reference? If you're willing to accept vague references, then I believe there is a reference in every episode. If you're not willing to accept these little fragments of Superman themes as true references, then I suppose there isn't a reference in every episode.
Regardless, I quite enjoy the episodes showing obvious Superman references. Below is a clip video from "The Race" (season six, episode 10, 1994). In the episode, Jerry dates Lois. He has to prove himself to her by winning a foot race against Duncan Meyer, Lois' boss and Jerry's high school track rival. Jerry ends up winning the race, thanks to Kramer.
Video credit: YouTube
If you're using a mobile device the video may not show up on your screen. Here's a link to the video on YouTube - The Race.
You're all Seinfeld experts! I want to know what you think. Is there a Superman reference in every Seinfeld episode? Feel free to leave a comment!
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