All-Star Superman is a twelve-issue American comic book series published by DC Comics under its All-Star imprint. The series was written by Grant Morrison, drawn by Frank Quitely, and digitally inked by Jamie Grant, running from November 2005 to October 2008. The story presents a timeless, out-of-continuity take on the Man of Steel, centering on Superman's final days after he is fatally overcharged with solar radiation during a rescue mission near the Sun. Knowing he is dying, Superman embarks on a series of mythic labors, reveals his secret identity to Lois Lane, and attempts to leave a lasting legacy for humanity.
The series was conceived as a way for top-tier creators to tell definitive, standalone stories about DC's iconic characters without the constraints of mainstream continuity. Morrison drew inspiration from Silver Age Superman comics, blending their whimsical, science-fiction concepts with a deeply emotional and humanistic core. The narrative is structured around Superman completing twelve super-feats, echoing the Twelve Labors of Hercules, while his nemesis Lex Luthor orchestrates a final, masterful scheme from prison.
Upon its release, All-Star Superman was met with widespread critical acclaim and is frequently cited as one of the greatest Superman stories ever told. It won multiple Eisner Awards, including Best New Series, and has been praised for its optimistic portrayal of heroism, its inventive storytelling, and the poignant, heartfelt relationship between Clark Kent and Lois Lane. The series' influence has extended beyond comics, shaping modern interpretations of the character's core values and mythology.