Who is Lobo? Jason Momoa’s DC anti-hero explained

Jason Momoa’s appearance as Lobo in the upcoming Supergirl film has quickly become one of the most talked-about moments from the trailer, prompting renewed interest in one of DC Comics’ most chaotic and unconventional characters.

For audiences unfamiliar with him, Lobo is not a traditional superhero or villain. First introduced in DC Comics in the 1980s, he is an intergalactic bounty hunter known for his brutal methods, dark humour and complete disregard for authority. Over the years, the character has evolved into a full-blown anti-hero, often operating by his own warped moral code rather than aligning with good or evil.

Who is Lobo in DC Comics?

In the comics, Lobo hails from the planet Czarnia and is infamous for wiping out his entire species. He frequently crosses paths with Superman, sometimes as an enemy and other times as an uneasy ally, depending on where his interests lie. His unpredictable nature, love of violence and total lack of restraint are key reasons he has remained a cult favourite among fans.

Lobo’s abilities make him one of DC’s most formidable characters. He possesses superhuman strength, heightened senses and extreme durability, allowing him to survive injuries that would kill most beings. One of his defining traits is his regenerative ability, which enables him to recover from almost any physical damage, making him nearly impossible to kill.

Why Lobo’s Supergirl debut matters

The decision to introduce Lobo in Supergirl is significant from a storytelling perspective. The film draws inspiration from Tom King’s Woman of Tomorrow comic run, which follows a reflective, episodic structure rather than a traditional superhero arc.

DC Studios co-chief James Gunn has said that incorporating Lobo into the adaptation helped create a clearer narrative through-line. His presence allows the story to function as a more conventional three-act film rather than a series of loosely connected moments, giving the character a meaningful role beyond fan service.

Momoa’s casting has long been favoured by fans, many of whom viewed him as a natural fit for Lobo’s larger-than-life personality well before the role was officially announced.

What Lobo’s arrival signals for the DC Universe

Lobo’s arrival hints at a broader tonal direction for the new DC Universe. His inclusion suggests a willingness to embrace morally complex characters who do not fit neatly into hero or villain categories.

Rather than positioning Supergirl as a purely traditional superhero story, Lobo’s presence points towards a balance of emotional storytelling, darker humour and heightened chaos. It also suggests that DC Studios may be laying the groundwork for Lobo to appear beyond a single film.

With Supergirl scheduled for release in June 2026, Lobo’s introduction appears to be a deliberate move to expand the DC Universe with characters capable of disrupting its heroes and storylines in unpredictable ways.