Alexander Joseph "Lex" Luthor is a supervillain appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Lex Luthor is the archenemy of Superman, although given his high status as a supervillain, he has also come into conflict with Batman and other superheroes in the DC Universe. Created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, the character first appeared in Action Comics #23. Luthor is a wealthy, power-mad business magnate, one of the most intelligent beings in the DC Universe, and has incredible technological prowess. Lex Luthor's goals typically center on killing Superman, the foremost obstacle to achieving the villain's megalomaniacal goals. Despite periodically wearing a powered exoskeleton, Luthor has traditionally lacked superpowers or a dual identity. Lex Luthor has carefully crafted his public persona in order to avoid suspicion and arrest. He is well known for his philanthropy, donating millions of dollars to Metropolis over the years, funding parks, foundations, and charities. Lex Luthor typically appears in comic books and other media as a business magnate with a bald head.