Why Tyler Hoechlin's Superman Should Fly Into The New 'Black Lightning' Series

Jefferson Pierce, a.k.a., Black Lightning is coming to television. Produced by the man who brings the #Arrowverse superheroes to life, Greg Berlanti, the pilot for Black Lightning has been sold to FOX.

In the comics, Jefferson Pierce is a high school principal in the Metropolis neighborhood of Southside, where he was born and raised.

Although there's no official word on when the series will arrive, buzz is already underway about the potential for crossovers. However, when asked about the possibility, Berlanti quickly put the pin back in the grenade with his reply:

"I don’t think so. If we’re lucky enough that that exists, that that show exists, I don’t think those worlds will cross over."

Apparently, Berlanti wants this newest superhero to stand on his own. But it would make perfect sense for the two worlds to collide, at least by featuring The CW's Superman (Tyler Hoechlin). We wouldn't want Superman to overshadow Black Lightning in his own show, but he could be used occasionally. Here's why:

Black Lightning Has Saved Superman's Life In The Comics

Black Lightning saved Superman from a near-fatal dose of Kryptonite by restarting his heart, and Superman owes Black Lightning a debt of gratitude. That alone would be reason for the Man of Steel to check in on him occasionally.

Of course, there is always the possibility that the writers will use instant messaging or texting — much like Kara Danvers did with Clark Kent before he was played by Tyler Hoechlin — to depict Black Lightning's conversations with Superman. But now that a live-action television Superman has been cast, I don't think it's asking too much for the Kryptonian to actually show up once in awhile.

A Show Set In Metropolis Can't Ignore Superman Forever

With both superheroes residing in Metropolis, it would seem almost ridiculous if they don't collide at one point in the future. After all, it didn't take long for #Supergirl to discover #TheFlash in National City, and no superhero, to date, has visited Star City or Central City without being seen or known.

So it stands to reason Superman is going to want a face to face with another Metropolis resident dedicating his life to fighting crime.

In the DC Universe, the superheroes come together to help one another when faced with enemies who are too powerful for them to defeat alone. Just look at the most recent and amazing #DC Crossover that took place in November of last year.

It's inevitable that Black Lightning will encounter that same type of villain. And he will need backup. Why would he go outside of Metropolis to find help when Superman is in the same city?

Though the execs at Supergirl were only given permission to use Superman for two episodes at the beginning of Season 2, Warner Bros. hasn't exactly said no to more appearances. And the introduction of a new superhero needs all the momentum it can get to make sure it gets picked up for a full season order. A cameo by Superman certainly wouldn't hurt the ratings.

Either way, I'm looking forward to Black Lightning to see the magic that Berlanti can once again bring to the screen!