This isn't the first era in which superheroes have come to the rescue of television.
"The Adventures of Superman" (1952-58): Viewers at the time forgave the cheesy special effects and the fact that it looked like beefy George Reeves had swallowed Jimmy Olsen.
"Batman" (1966-68): So popular during its first two seasons that it ran twice a week.
"Spidey Super Stories" (1974-77): "Electric Company" took time out from teaching kids how to read to follow Spider-Man as he stops bad guys from criminal acts, like stealing Easter baskets.
"Wonder Woman" (1975-79): Taught the very first spinning class.
"The Incredible Hulk" (1978-82): Don't make David Banner angry. You wouldn't like him when he's angry.
"Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman" (1993-97): He's a lover, not a fighter.
"Smallville" (2001-11): Clark Kent's version of "The Wonder Years."
