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It’s been 23 years sinceSmallvillefirst hit TV screens, introducing audiences to a new take on Superman’s origin story. Premiering in 2001, the show followed a young Clark Kent as he navigated the challenges of growing up in the small town of Smallville while slowly uncovering his destiny as one of the most iconic superheroes in the DC Universe. With its mix of teen drama and superhero elements,Smallvillequickly became a fan favorite, running for an impressive ten seasons.
The series was more than just another superhero show, it was a coming-of-age story. It focused on Clark’s struggles with adolescence, relationships, and learning to control his emerging powers. This was all done while encountering classic characters from the Superman lore. Though it wasn’t part of the official DCEU timeline, the show left a lasting legacy. Its influence can even be spotted in modern Superman adaptations.
Featuring a talented ensemble cast, many of whom have continued to thrive in the entertainment industry,Smallvilleearned its place as a standout in the superhero genre.
WhySmallvilleSeason 11 Never Happened?
There’s never been an official explanation for whySmallvilledidn’t continue with season 11, but several factors might have contributed to its conclusion. By the time the show wrapped up its 10th season, it had already been on the air for a decade. Over time, it’s natural for ratings to dip, even for popular shows likeSmallville.
While it remained a strong performer for both the WB and later The CW, the gradual decline in viewership might have signaled to the network that season 10 was the right time to bring the story to an end. Season 10 of Smallville struggled with declining ratings,dropping to as low as 1.84 million viewersdespite its amazing fanbase and earlier success.
Another likely factor was the show’s production costs. As a Superman-centered series filled with superpowers, action sequences, and CGI-heavy effects,Smallvillewasn’t cheap to produce. Networks often weigh the balance between a show’s budget and its ratings when deciding its future. InSmallville’scase, the combination of declining ratings and high production costs may have led to the decision to wrap things up after season 10.
Smallville: Tom Welling Knows His CW Superman Revival Won’t be a Blockbuster But His Reasoning is Hard to Beat
Despite its ending,Smallvilleremains a beloved series. Fans have kept their love for the show alive, and its78% score on Rotten Tomatoesshows its strong reception. The cast also played a huge role in the show’s success, and many of them have gone on to do exciting work in the entertainment industry. So, where are they now? Let’s take a look at what some of the stars ofSmallvillehave been up to since the show ended.
Tom Welling (Clark Kent)
Tom Wellingbrought Clark Kent to life inSmallville, focusing on his journey from a young man discovering his powers to becoming Superman. After his decade-long stint as the iconic character, Welling’s career expanded into both television and film. He appeared in shows likeHellcatsandLucifer, where his role as Marcus Pierce earned him widespread praise. Welling also explored directing, contributing to episodes of bothSmallvilleandHellcats.
In 2020, he starred inProfessionals, portraying a skilled mercenary and former intelligence officer. On the film side, Welling featured in movies likeCheaper by the Dozen,Draft Day,The Choice, andParkland. Additionally, he served as an executive producer onHellcats.
Welling returned to the DC universe in 2019 during the Arrowverse’sCrisis on Infinite Earthscrossover, reprising Clark Kent as a version of the character who gave up his powers. This unique portrayal allowed him to avoid donning the Superman suit, a choice he was particularly happy about.
Off-screen, Welling co-hosts theSmallvillerewatch podcastTalk Villewith Michael Rosenbaum. Married to Jessica Rose Lee since 2019, they share two sons, Thomson and Rocklin. During hisSmallvilleyears, Welling, according toIMDB, earned $175,000 per episode in its final seasons.
Kristin Kreuk (Lana Lang)
Kristin Kreuk played Lana Lang, Clark Kent’s first love and a key character inSmallville. After leaving the show, Kreuk continued to shine in television and film. She took on leading roles in series likeBeauty and the Beastand the legal dramaBurden of Truth, where her performances received critical acclaim. On the big screen, Kreuk appeared in films such asStreet Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li,EuroTrip, andSnow White: The Fairest of Them All.
Beyond acting, Kreuk co-founded Pavarti Creative, a production company focused on empowering female-driven storytelling. In 2023, she joined the cast ofJack Reacherfor four episodes and will soon appear in the seriesMurder in a Small Town.
Though linked to the controversial NXIVM group in 2017, Kreuk clarified that she left in 2013 and was not involved in or aware of any illegal activities during her time there.
Michael Rosenbaum (Lex Luthor)
Michael Rosenbaumis often praised as one of the best live-action portrayals of Lex Luthor, thanks to his performance inSmallville. After his role as Clark Kent’s nemesis, Rosenbaum explored various creative paths in acting, voice work, and podcasting. He appeared as Martinex inGuardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2andVol. 3and starred in projects likeHit and Run.
Rosenbaum has also made a mark in voice acting, lending his talent to animated series such asJustice LeagueandTeen Titans. On television, he played lead roles in shows likeImpastorandBreaking In.
Beyond acting, Rosenbaum is the host of two successful podcasts,Inside of You with Michael RosenbaumandTalkville, which he co-hosts withSmallvilleco-star Tom Welling. He’s also the lead singer of the band Sun Spin, showing his musical talent. Rosenbaum continues to be a versatile and creative force in entertainment.
Sam Jones III (Pete Ross)
Sam Jones III played Pete Ross inSmallville, Clark Kent’s close friend and trusted ally. After leaving the show in season 3, Pete made a brief return in season 7. Following his departure fromSmallville, Jones continued his acting career, appearing in popular shows likeER,Bones,CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, andBlue Mountain State.
In 2011, Jones faced legal troubles and served a 10-month prison sentence for a dr*g-related conviction. However, he made a comeback to acting after his release, showing resilience and determination. He starred in films likeOf Fortune and Goldand the 2018 thrillerAll Light Will End. He also appeared in the 2016 romantic comedyDiagnosis Deliciousand made occasional television appearances. Despite challenges, Jones has continued to pursue his passion for acting and remained active in the industry.
Annette O’Toole (Martha Kent)
Annette O’Toole brought warmth and wisdom to the role of Martha Kent, Clark’s adoptive mother inSmallville. A talented actress with a rich career, O’Toole has been part of many notable projects both before and after her time on the show. Interestingly, years earlier, she played Lana Lang inSuperman III, making her connection to the Superman universe even more special.
AfterSmallville, O’Toole appeared in popular shows likeGrey’s Anatomy,Halt and Catch Fire, andThe Punisher. She also took on roles in films such asWomen Who KillandBlow the Man Down. Since 2019, she has been a key part of the Netflix seriesVirgin River, where she plays Hope McCrea, the mayor of the town. The show’s success has led to a sixth season, set to air in 2024.
Outside of acting, O’Toole collaborates musically with her husband, actor Michael McKean, and is a proud mother of two daughters.
John Schneider (Jonathan Kent)
John Schneider portrayed Jonathan Kent, Clark Kent’s adoptive father, inSmallville, bringing strength and wisdom to the role. Before joining the show, Schneider was already a household name, thanks to his role as Bo Duke inThe Dukes of Hazzard. Beyond acting, Schneider has built a successful career in country music, releasing several albums over the years.
After leavingSmallvillein 2006 when Jonathan Kent’s storyline ended, Schneider appeared in various TV shows, includingGlee,Desperate Housewives, andThe Haves and the Have Nots. He also took on roles in movies likeThe Confession MusicalandJingle Smells, both released in 2023. Schneider even showcased his singing talent onThe Masked Singer, finishing as a runner-up in 2023.
Schneider continues to balance acting and music while staying connected with fans. In 2024, he married Dee Dee Sorvino, marking a new chapter in his personal life.
Erica Durance (Lois Lane)
Erica Durance brought Lois Lane to life inSmallville. She joined the show in season 4 and stayed until its final season. As a bold and charismatic character, Lois added a new dynamic to the story. AfterSmallville, Durance starred in the medical dramaSaving Hope, in which she played a lead role.
Durance returned to the superhero world with her role as Alura Zor-El, Supergirl’s mother, in the TV seriesSupergirl. She also reunited with Tom Welling during the “Crisis on Infinite Earths” crossover event, reprising her role as Lois Lane.
Smallville Fans Will Never Forgive DCU CEO James Gunn’s Movies Sidelining Michael Rosenbaum’s Character in a Rather Humiliating Way
In 2023, Durance starred in two TV movies,Unexpected GraceandMs. Christmas Comes to Town. The Canadian actress has continued to shine in both dramatic and lighthearted roles. Off-screen, Durance has been married to actor David Palffy since 2005, and they have two sons together.
John Glover (Lionel Luthor)
John Glover brought the character of Lionel Luthor to life inSmallville, portraying the cunning and manipulative father of Lex Luthor. His performance added depth to the story, even making viewers feel some sympathy for his villainous son. Glover’s acting career has been rich and varied, spanning decades beforeSmallville. He lent his voice to the Riddler in multiple animated DC projects and appeared in numerous TV shows and movies.
AfterSmallville, where Lionel was ultimately killed by Lex in season 7, Glover continued to make his mark in Hollywood. He starred inShazam!in 2019, took on roles inFear the Walking Dead, and made appearances in shows likeLucifer,The Good Fight, andAgent Carter. His recent work includes a 2023 episode ofAnd Just Like That. Beyond acting, Glover married sculptor Adam Kurtzman in 2016, adding another chapter to his eventful life.
Aaron Ashmore (Jimmy Olsen)
Aaron Ashmore played Jimmy Olsen, the iconic Daily Planet photographer, inSmallville. After a brief introduction in season 6, he became a main character in seasons 7 and 8. His portrayal added a relatable charm to the series. Following his time onSmallville, Ashmore stayed active in television, showcasing his talent in various genres.
He starred in the Canadian sci-fi seriesKilljoysand had a recurring role inLost Girl. He also appeared in the fantasy dramaLocke & Keyand the sci-fi showWarehouse 13. Ashmore has been part of several TV movies likeThe Santa SquadandPretty Cheater, Deadly Lies. In 2023, he gained attention with a recurring role in the hit seriesGinny & Georgia.
Ashmore has been married to Zoe Kate since 2014. Together, they have two daughters, making his life as full off-screen as on-screen.
Justin Hartley (Oliver Queen/Green Arrow)
Justin Hartleybrought Oliver Queen, also known as Green Arrow, to life inSmallvillefrom seasons 6 to 10. His performance introduced fans to the heroic archer long before Green Arrow became a household name on TV. AfterSmallville, Hartley’s career soared, with standout roles in popular shows. He played Kevin Pearson in the award-winning dramaThis Is Us, earning widespread acclaim. He also starred inEmily Owens, M.D.,Revenge,Mistresses, andThe Young and the Restless.
Hartley’s talent extends to voice work, with appearances in animated shows likeFamily GuyandRobot Chicken. In 2024, he starred in and produced the action dramaTracker.
Off-screen, Hartley married Sofia Pernas in 2021 after his split from Chrishell Stause. He shares a daughter, Isabella, with his first wife, Lindsay Korman. With a successful career and family life, Hartley continues to shine in Hollywood.
Allison Mack (Chloe Sullivan)
Allison Mack played Chloe Sullivan inSmallville, one of Clark Kent’s closest friends and a key character throughout the show’s run. AfterSmallville, she appeared in two related web series and had a role in the sitcomWilfred, along with a few guest appearances.
However, Mack’s career took a turn in 2018 when she became involved with the NXIVM cult. She pleaded guilty to s*x trafficking charges and was sentenced to three years in prison. After serving 21 months, Mack was released in July 2023. It remains unclear whether she plans to return to acting in the future.
You can streamSmallvilleon Amazon Prime Video.
Sohini Mukherjee
Content Writer
Articles Published :331
Sohini Mukherjee is an Evergreen writer at FandomWire, specializing in pop culture, all things sitcoms, and, of course, Harry Potter. She has a soft spot for shows like Modern Family and pretty much any movie that knows how to tell a good story. You’ll find her name on listicles and long form articles that feel more like fun conversations than stiff articles. Having published over 300 articles, Sohini always brings a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the stories she covers.
