Martin Mejia / AP

Martin Mejia / AP

Avelino Chavez wears his signature Superman costume as he walks to work in Lima, Peru, June 14. Chavez, 52, took on the Superman persona 15 years ago when he lost his job as a security guard and says he has had work ever since.

Chavez says he only earns about $160 dollars per month, but that he has the strength of a superhero. Chavez currently works to promote a travel agency.

Read more about his story from The Associated Press.

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Reuters

Reuters

Reuters

Reuters reports: NEW YORK — Decades after two young cartoonists from Cleveland sold the rights to Superman for $130, their 1938 paycheck fetched $160,000 on Monday in an online auction. The winning bid landed the check that Detective Comics, later known as DC Comics, wrote to Jerome Siegel and Joe Shuster for the comic-book character with the "S" emblazoned on his chest.

The check for the rights to the American icon who stands for truth, justice and the American way is "the holy grail" for comic book fans and collectors, Zurzolo said.

Jay Directo / AFP - Getty Images

Filopino fashion designer Herbert Chavez dresses like the "Man of Steel" as he stands among his huge collection of Superman mannequins, dolls and other paraphernalia at his home in Calamba, south of Manila, Oct. 13. The 35-year-old fan underwent extensive cosmetic surgery in an attempt to transform himself into his comic book hero.

Jay Directo / AFP - Getty Images

Filopino fashion designer Herbert Chavez dresses like the "Man of Steel" at his home in Calamba, on Oct. 13.

Cheryl Ravelo / Reuters

Herbert Chavez before his cosmetic transformation at about age 16.

Wow. Now that's serious idol worship!

According to Reuters:

Just like Superman, Chavez has two identities, working during the day as a dress designer and pageant trainer. His Superman persona comes to life after work.

People in Calamba, south of Manila, refer to him as the "village superman." Children play with him when they see him in the streets.  Full story.