Superman sculpture takes flight atop London’s Shard in stunning UK first

Superman was spotted flying over London in what is the UK’s highest ever public sculpture.

Fans of the Man of Steel may have thought they were in a different universe as a life-like Superman was spotted soaring above London, perched atop the Shard in the UK’s highest ever public sculpture.

Passers-by gazing up at the iconic landmark would have caught a glimpse of the hyper-realistic superhero, standing watch over 300 metres above the ground.

This marks the first time a cinematic character has adorned the spire of London’s tallest building in such a way. The 11-foot-tall statue, weighing over 120kg, was crafted from a fibreglass body moulded in ECO resin and secured by steel cables attaching it to the Shard.

The sculpture took four months to create, with a team of over 20 people dedicating a combined total of 2,000 hours to perfecting it. To ensure an accurate likeness, David Corenswet, who plays Superman in the new film, was 3D scanned during production to capture the ideal Superman silhouette.

James Gunn, writer and director of Superman and Co-Chairman of DC Studios, said: “To see such a realistic depiction of our Superman displayed on the top of The Shard is mind-blowing.”

The pose depicts Superman with one leg dynamically bent and head looking down, as if he’s hovering protectively over the capital. Londoners are being urged to ‘Look Up’ – the slogan of the latest film – to spot the soaring superhero.

The substantial Superman will be seen, if the weather allows, from as far as 40 miles away, anchored to Western Europe’s highest structure.

Its intricate steel framework has been expertly crafted to celebrate the release of the new ‘Superman’ motion picture, which opened in cinemas on Friday, July 11.

Daniel Fulbrook, head of marketing for Real Estate Management and asset manager at The Shard, commented: “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 keen to spot Superman from the prime locations offering clear sights today (Tuesday 1 July), Borough Market, Sumner Street (SE1 9HZ), Southwark Bridge, and Stoney St (SE1 9AF) are the recommended viewpoints.