On one hand, it was a cruel metaphor for the sexism women experience in their day-to-day lives. What does it say that even Supergirl, a fiercely competent woman with the same abilities as Superman, still lives in the shadow of a powerful man on a series bearing her own name? It’s unfortunate and upsetting. But on the other hand, you can’t ignore the fact that Superman is one of the most popular superheroes of all time, with several films and TV series under his belt. His appearance on the show was almost certainly inevitable.

“I think a couple people have heard of that character before,” executive producer Ali Adler jokes to TVGuide.com.

Indeed, Superman’s popularity within popular culture and within the show’s narrative meant Supergirl couldn’t ignore the character entirely. The idea that he wouldn’t aid Kara when the world is in danger was absurd. It’s why during Supergirl’s first season the character “appeared” to speak with Kara (Melissa Benoist) over instant message and quick glimpses of his silhouette popped up toward the latter half of the season. But eventually show’s ability to explain away his absence in certain situations became too much. Thankfully, the character will make his first on-screen, present-day appearance in the show’s Season 2 premiere (Monday, Oct. 10, The CW).