Case and Jmike are joined by Ed Gross to talk about his books on Superman!  

Voices From Krypton

Superman: The Definitive History

  Overview   In this engaging podcast interview, hosts Case Aiken and Jmike welcome Ed Gross, a prolific author known for his in-depth oral histories, particularly focusing on Superman. The conversation begins with an exploration of Ed’s background and his extensive work, including the recently released 'The Definitive History of Superman' and the ambitious 'Voices from Krypton,' which features insights from 250 interviews. Ed shares the intricate process behind creating oral histories, akin to piecing together a jigsaw puzzle, while delving into the complex history of Superman’s creators, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. The dialogue highlights Ed's personal connection to Superman and discusses the legacy of the character, as well as his experiences interviewing various actors who have portrayed Superman. The episode concludes with an announcement of a book giveaway to the listeners, further engaging the audience with Ed's work.

 

Notes   Introduction to Ed Gross and His Superman Projects (00:00 - 11:37)

• Case Aiken and Jmike welcome guest Ed Gross to discuss his Superman books.
• Ed wrote 'Voices from Krypton,' an oral history of Superman that includes interviews with Case.
• Ed recently completed 'The Definitive History of Superman.'
• Ed explains his background in oral histories, starting with Star Trek's 50th anniversary in 2015.
• Oral histories allow presentation of multiple perspectives, including conflicting views.
• Ed has written 14 books in 9 years, including oral histories of Star Trek, Star Wars, James Bond.
• 'Voices from Krypton' was a dream project that utilized 40 years of Ed's interviews.

Creating Oral Histories and Superman's Legacy (11:37 - 22:26)

• Ed explains his process for creating oral histories, comparing it to assembling a jigsaw puzzle.
• Interviews are structured to tell a coherent story while maintaining authentic voices.
• The book includes 250 interviews in total, creating a 333,000-word, 750-page tome.
• The Siegel and Shuster story was the most challenging section to research and balance.
• Ed spent four months researching court papers and interviewing relatives to tell their story fairly.
• Ed discusses how the creators eventually received credit for Superman before they died.
• Superman has appeared in some form of production every decade since 1938.

️ Superman's Creation and Complex History (22:26 - 32:30)

• Ed compares Siegel and Shuster's work-for-hire situation to actors in Gilligan's Island and Star Trek.
• Despite selling rights for 130, Siegel and Shuster made equivalent of 6 million in first nine years.
• Ed highlights Neil Adams' significant role in advocating for Superman's creators.
• Ed discusses his personal connection to Superman since age 5.
• Superman remains one of Ed's lifetime obsessions alongside Star Trek, Beatles, James Bond.
• Ed notes he can trace his lifelong interests to a five-year period in his childhood (1967-1972).
• Ed expresses gratitude for being able to write about his childhood passions professionally.

Superman: The Definitive History Book (32:30 - 43:07)

• Ed was approached to create official Superman history after 'Voices from Krypton' success.
• Initial deadline was only four months but was extended.
• Ed co-wrote with Bob Greenberger, who handled comic book history sections.
• The official book features extensive artwork including comics, production art, storyboards.
• Book is oversized (16 pounds) and retails for 175 (Amazon 157).
• Kindle version available for $19.99.
• Ed discusses his interactions with Brandon Routh, who wrote the foreword.
• Brandon embodies Superman's principles in real life, especially when interacting with fans.

Superman Actors and Future Projects (43:07 - 54:25)

• Ed has interviewed numerous Superman actors including Dean Cain, George Newbern, Tim Daly.
• Shares story of meeting Henry Cavill before Man of Steel and being struck by his Superman-like appearance.
• Ed is currently working on second volume of Planet of the Apes oral history.
• Ed mentions working on more Superman projects but can't discuss specifics yet.
• Every person interviewed was enthusiastic about discussing Superman.
• Ed shares anecdote about Kevin Smith's enthusiasm regarding a childhood Superman game.
• People recognize being part of Superman's 86-year legacy.
• Podcast hosts announce giveaway of Ed's book to Discord members.

 

Action items Case Aiken

• First three people to DM Case on Discord will receive copies of Ed's book (52:22)