Superman spotted soaring over London as UK’s highest public sculpture unveiled

A 11-foot-tall statue of the iconic superhero was unveiled at the top of the Shard, giving the illusion that Superman was soaring over the capital as he watched over the city

Comic book enthusiasts might have wondered if they’d been transported to an alternate reality, as the Man of Steel was spotted soaring above London in what’s being celebrated as the UK’s tallest public sculpture.

Londoners gazing upwards at the Shard would have been treated to the sight of a remarkably lifelike Superman figure, positioned more than 300 metres above street level atop the capital’s most recognisable skyscraper.

The installation represents a first for London’s tallest building, with the imposing figure standing at an impressive 11 feet tall and weighing in at over 120kg. Constructed from fibreglass using ECO resin, it was fastened to the Shard using steel cables.

The remarkable sculpture required a staggering four months to complete, with more than 20 dedicated craftspeople putting in a combined 2,000 hours to ensure perfection.

David Corenswet, who currently wears the Superman mantle, underwent 3D scanning during production to capture the ideal superhero physique.

James Gunn, the creative force behind Superman and Co-Chairman of DC Studios, was astounded by the spectacle, declaring: “To see such a realistic depiction of our Superman displayed on the top of The Shard is mind-blowing.”

He continued: “Bringing one of cinema’s greatest heroes to life for the new film has been the adventure of a lifetime.

“And it’s a real honour to see that journey continue in this way long after we wrapped, as we promote the film around the world. This will take some beating, London.”

Superman is depicted in a striking pose atop The Shard, London’s skyline now graced with the Man of Steel keeping a vigilant eye over the city.

The capital’s residents are encouraged to ‘Look Up’ – the tagline of the latest film – to spot the airborne superhero. On a clear day, the impressive figure of Superman can be seen from as far as 40 miles away, perched on Western Europe’s highest building.

To celebrate the release of the new ‘Superman’ movie, which premieres on Friday, July 11, an elaborate steel structure has been carefully constructed.

Daniel Fulbrook, the marketing maestro at Real Estate Management and asset manager for The Shard, remarked: “Superman has stood as a symbol of hope and heroism for generations – so it feels only fitting that he now watches over London from the top of one of its most iconic landmarks.

“To see him suspended within The Shard’s spire is truly surreal. We’re incredibly proud to help bring this legendary figure to life in such a bold and breathtaking way.”

For those eager to witness Superman from prime spots with unobstructed views today (Tuesday 1 July), recommended locations include Borough Market, Sumner Street (SE1 9HZ), Southwark Bridge, or Stoney St (SE1 9AF).