“JESSE WATTERS VS. SUPERMAN: FOX NEWS HOSTS CRITICIZES IMMIGRANT HERO, SPARKING BACKLASH OVER ‘SUPERWOKE’ FILM PORTRAYAL”

Jesse Watters’ controversial remarks about Superman’s immigrant origins in James Gunn’s upcoming film have sparked intense backlash. Critics argue that his comments misrepresent the character’s legacy as a symbol of hope for immigrants, while others defend the film’s stance on immigration. Click to discover how the debate over Superman’s identity is resonating in the broader cultural conversation about immigration.

As the release of Superman: Immigrant’s Rise approaches, the iconic superhero finds himself thrust into a polarizing debate over immigration in the United States, igniting fierce discussions across political and social platforms. The controversy was sparked by recent comments made by James Gunn, the director of the new Superman film, who framed the character’s immigrant origins as a metaphor for the American Dream. However, what followed was a heated exchange on Fox News, where host Jesse Watters made inflammatory remarks about the film’s portrayal of Superman as an immigrant, using a controversial joke that ignited outrage and controversy.

The Trigger: Jesse Watters’ Controversial Joke

The controversy surrounding Superman: Immigrant’s Rise was set off on July 7, 2025, during a segment on The Five, where Jesse Watters, known for his polarizing views on immigration, made a provocative comment. In the segment, Watters jokingly referred to Superman’s cape as potentially bearing the “mark of MS-13,” a notorious gang associated with Salvadoran immigrants. This comment, which was made during a discussion of the film’s portrayal of Superman as a superhero embodying immigrant values, stoked outrage among fans and critics alike.

The joke, meant to be a quip, instead framed the immigrant narrative of Superman as a “Superwoke” statement, something that many Fox News commentators were quick to dismiss as politically charged. Watters’ comment was seen by many as an attempt to politicize the character of Superman, an immigrant hero who has been a symbol of hope and justice for over 80 years. As the discussion unfolded, social media exploded with responses, and hashtags like #SupermanIsImmigrant began trending, reflecting widespread anger over the attack on Superman’s immigrant identity.

The Backlash: Fans Defend Superman’s Legacy

The reaction on social media was swift and intense. Fans of Superman, particularly those on platforms like Twitter (X), rallied behind the character, defending his immigrant roots as an integral part of his story. Many took issue with the framing of Superman’s immigrant narrative as something to be mocked or politicized.

“Superman has always been a story about hope, resilience, and the immigrant experience. He’s a symbol of strength for anyone who’s had to leave their homeland for a better life,” said one user, @AlexNever347. “Jesse Watters might not understand the character’s origins, but Superman’s story is about humanity and empathy, not fear or hate.”

The narrative of Superman as an immigrant was never just a plot point; it has been central to his character since his inception in 1938. Created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, both of Jewish immigrant descent, Superman has always symbolized the ideals of resilience and the American Dream. His journey from the dying planet Krypton to Earth, where he is raised by adoptive parents in Smallville, Kansas, serves as a reflection of the immigrant experience in America—alienated from his origins, yet embracing the ideals and values of his new home.

James Gunn’s Vision: Superman as the Ultimate Immigrant Story

James Gunn, the director behind Superman: Immigrant’s Rise, has consistently framed the character’s immigrant origins as an allegory for the broader story of America. In a recent interview with The Times of London, Gunn explained that Superman’s story is a reflection of the values he believes are still worth fighting for: “Superman is the American immigrant story—someone who was sent here from a different world and embraced the best parts of humanity. He represents hope, kindness, and a deep commitment to justice.”

Gunn emphasized that his portrayal of Superman, though set in a fantastical world, has always reflected real-world struggles, particularly the immigrant experience. This narrative resonated with many, especially those who saw Superman as a symbol of acceptance and inclusion. Gunn’s vision for the character was never about political allegory but about universal values: the desire to protect others and fight for what’s right.

While Gunn’s statement was met with praise from many, it also opened the door for backlash from conservative circles. Fox News, particularly through figures like Jesse Watters, pushed back against the framing of Superman’s character in this way. Their criticism was fueled by a broader culture war surrounding immigration and national identity, with Watters’ remark about MS-13 reflecting the fear and prejudice some hold toward immigrant communities.

Jesse Watters vs. Superman: A Clash of Values

The public debate between Jesse Watters and Superman over the issue of immigration took center stage after Watters’ comments went viral. On The Five, Watters criticized the film for pushing a “woke” agenda, arguing that the depiction of Superman as an immigrant was a political statement that many Americans didn’t want to see. He framed the film as part of a broader effort to inject political correctness into entertainment, dismissing the immigrant narrative as a thinly veiled left-wing message.

“We don’t need to see Superman turned into a social justice warrior,” Watters remarked. “He’s supposed to be a symbol of strength and American values, not a political statement on immigration.”

However, Superman’s defenders, both fans and industry figures, quickly took to social media to denounce Watters’ attack on the character. They pointed out that Superman, as an immigrant, had always been a symbol of inclusion, and that his story was about embracing the values that make America a land of opportunity. In response to Watters’ comment about MS-13, many noted that his comparison was an oversimplification of the immigrant experience and a misrepresentation of what Superman stood for.

A Twitter user, @mktoon, expressed the sentiments of many, saying: “Superman is literally an alien from another planet. His entire story is about being an immigrant and finding a home here. This isn’t some new ‘woke’ agenda—it’s been his legacy since 1938!”

The Larger Debate: Immigration and National Identity in 2025

The current debate over Superman’s immigrant origins comes at a particularly charged time in American politics. The issue of immigration has long been a flashpoint for division in the country, with conservative factions pushing for more restrictive immigration policies while progressive groups fight for more inclusive practices. According to a 2025 Pew Research Center report, 59% of Americans under 30 support comprehensive immigration reform, while 62% of conservatives express negative views about immigration.

This cultural divide is mirrored in the ongoing discussion of Superman, where the character’s immigrant narrative has become a battleground in the larger fight over national identity. For some, Superman is a symbol of American ideals, a champion of truth and justice who embodies the best qualities of the American Dream. For others, the idea of Superman as an immigrant hero challenges the national identity and stirs up fears about immigration’s role in shaping the country’s future.

James Gunn’s decision to emphasize Superman’s immigrant story reflects his desire to highlight themes of acceptance, resilience, and hope—values that resonate deeply with many. However, the backlash from figures like Jesse Watters underscores how fraught the conversation around immigration has become in America.

The Cultural Impact of Superman’s Immigrant Story

For decades, Superman has been a symbol of hope and inclusivity, a character who defied his alien origins to become a protector of Earth. His immigrant story has resonated with countless generations of fans, particularly those who have faced similar struggles of displacement and adaptation. By highlighting this aspect of his origin, Gunn’s film taps into the very essence of Superman’s legacy: the belief that anyone, no matter their origins, can contribute to a better world.

As the debate surrounding the film intensifies, it is clear that Superman’s immigrant roots will remain a point of contention for some, while others will continue to see it as a powerful symbol of inclusion and hope. In this polarized world, the character’s legacy serves as a reminder that stories of strength, resilience, and unity can transcend borders and offer inspiration to all.

Conclusion: Superman’s Legacy and the Immigrant Spirit

The current debate over Superman’s portrayal in Gunn’s film highlights the ongoing cultural divide in America regarding immigration. However, at its core, the discussion is about more than just a superhero’s backstory—it’s about the values that shape our understanding of identity, community, and belonging. As the film’s release date approaches, it will be interesting to see how the controversy plays out and whether the conversation about Superman’s immigrant origins will help shift the broader conversation on immigration in the U.S.

Regardless of the political debate, one thing remains clear: Superman’s story is one of hope, strength, and the enduring power of the immigrant spirit. Whether or not viewers agree with the political message of Gunn’s portrayal, Superman’s legacy as a symbol of inclusion and justice continues to resonate with audiences around the world. For fans, the character will always stand as a reminder that no matter where you come from, you can make a difference and find a place to belong.