UPDATE: The beloved Superman series, Smallville, is experiencing a remarkable resurgence on Netflix, climbing to No. 8 on the Global Top 10 TV Shows chart just as the superhero’s popularity skyrockets with the recent release of the 2025 film. This timely revival coincides with the film’s impressive box office haul of over $618 million worldwide.
Fans are flocking to Smallville, a series that chronicles Clark Kent’s formative years before he dons the iconic cape. As the buzz surrounding the James Gunn-led DC Universe reboot grows, viewers are eager to explore the backstory of their favorite hero. Clark Kent’s journey, portrayed by Tom Welling, alongside Michael Rosenbaum as Lex Luthor and Kristin Kreuk as Lana Lang, has captivated audiences since the show’s original airing from 2001 to 2011.
The surge in Smallville’s popularity reflects a broader interest in superhero narratives. With the new film skipping the origin story and diving straight into action, viewers are turning back to the series for a deeper understanding of Superman’s character and his struggles. Following its peak on the streaming platform, Smallville is now sandwiched between hits like The Lincoln Lawyer and Being Gordon Ramsay, highlighting its newfound relevance.
In the wake of the film’s success, Warner Bros. and Gunn are fast-tracking multiple projects within the DC Universe, further fueling the Superman franchise. Upcoming titles include a Supergirl film starring Milly Alcock as Kara Zor-El and a sequel titled Man of Tomorrow, featuring David Corenswet as Superman and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. This sequel will introduce the formidable Brainiac, played by Lars Eidinger.
Additionally, a spin-off series focusing on Jimmy Olsen is in the pipeline, described as a “true crime” docuseries with notable characters, including the villainous Gorilla Grodd. Although a release date has yet to be announced, the anticipation is palpable.
Since its conclusion, Smallville has received accolades, including Primetime Emmy Awards and a Teen Choice Award for Welling’s performance. The series maintains a strong legacy, boasting a 78% critic score and a 72% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, affirming its lasting impact on the superhero genre.
As the Superman franchise expands, fans have much to look forward to. The excitement surrounding Smallville and the upcoming DC projects reflects a renewed interest in superhero storytelling, proving that the Man of Steel remains an enduring symbol of hope and heroism. Stay tuned for more updates on the evolving world of Superman and the DC Universe.
