Smallville (season 10)
Encyclopedia
Season ten of Smallville
, an American
television series, premiered on September 24, 2010 and consisted of 22 episodes. It was the tenth and final season to air, and the fifth one to air on The CW
television network. The series recounts the early adventures of Kryptonian
Clark Kent
as he adjusts to life in the fictional town of Smallville, Kansas
, during the years before he becomes Superman
.
Regular cast members during season ten include Tom Welling
, Erica Durance
, Justin Hartley
, Cassidy Freeman
, and Allison Mack
. John Schneider
, Annette O'Toole
, John Glover
, Laura Vandervoort
, and Callum Blue
all returned sporadically throughout the season as Jonathan Kent, Martha Kent, Lionel Luthor
, Kara, and Zod respectively, while Michael Rosenbaum
(Lex Luthor
) and Aaron Ashmore
(Jimmy Olsen) returned for the series finale.
The final season of the series, season ten continues the romance first developed between Clark Kent
and Lois Lane
in season nine, as well as the continuation of Clark's trials, and the forging of his superhero identity "Superman". The season premiere was seen by 2.98 million U.S. viewers. The series finale aired on May 13, 2011. By the end of this season, Smallville had become the longest running science fiction television series in North America.
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, Erica Durance
, Cassidy Freeman
, Callum Blue
, and Justin Hartley
were the only regular cast members from the previous season that were contracted for the tenth season; although Blue was not picked up for the second year of his deal. As Allison Mack's contract was reportedly not renewed before the end of season nine, her status was in question. To put doubts to rest, executive producer Brian Peterson told Entertainment Weeklys Michael Ausiello that he was "very optimistic" that Allison Mack would be back.
The studio's official press release was presented on May 20, 2010 and confirmed that Smallville would be remaining at its Friday, 8 p.m. time slot. It also revealed that Smallville would be reteaming with Supernatural
, a series that was originally slotted just behind Smallville on Thursday nights for four seasons. The press release did not list Mack in the list of stars. On May 21, 2010, Mack released a statement confirming that she would not return as a series regular, but would return for multiple episodes to wind up her storyline. However, at the 2010 Comic-Con, Peterson stated that, despite her long absence and limited episode count, Mack would remain a series regular. Mack stated that her hope is that the character of Chloe will hold on to her integrity as the writers close out her storyline. For the actress, watching as her character matured over the years—from sacrificing the things she wanted for the sake of her friends, to finally reaching a point where she can strive to satisfy her own needs and wants—has been important for her. Tom Welling, who served as a part-time producer for season nine, was announced as a full executive producer for season ten. Welling is also set to direct two episodes this season, and Justin Hartley will be directing one episode.
Similar to season eight and nine, there will also be a new main villain. The producers revealed that Darkseid
will fulfill this role for the final season, but will be a different incarnation than his comic book counterpart. They explained that Darkseid's presence will be felt throughout the whole season, but that he will not actually appear until near the end; unlike in previous seasons where the main villain was present from the start. Instead, Darkseid's minions—Granny Goodness, Desaad, Glorious Godfrey, and others to be named—will appear throughout the season as the physical presence for Clark to battle. That said, Darkseid will make an appearance in the season premiere, digitally created
to start with, but with "more solid forms" making a short appearance by the third episode. The plan is for Darkseid's presence to be established as he takes over the bodies of various characters. The executive producers also wanted to take a look at the history of Smallvilles Clark Kent in the 200th episode of the series. According to Peterson, "[The episode will] explore a little bit of the past, the present and the future. We kind of do a little look back to where we've been and we also take a look at where Clark is going."
When discussing how the series will end, Peterson stated that the creative team has had multiple visions of the finale episode since the show began. According to Peterson, there is the vision that series creators Miles Millar and Alfred Gough developed and shared with the team over the years. Then there is the vision that Peterson and the current set of executive producers have. The producer said that ultimately, the finale episode will be a combination of all their visions that he believes will not disappoint anyone. In addition, the producers stated that they "don't want to hold anything back" for this season, and "give the fans what they want to see".
(Martha Kent), John Schneider (Jonathan Kent), Michael Rosenbaum
(Lex Luthor
), Kristin Kreuk
(Lana Lang
), and Michael McKean
(Perry White
) return. Welling even stated he is doing "everything [he] can to get Michael Rosenbaum back". For Welling, Rosenbaum is the only person he can see portraying Lex Luthor on the series. He said that the thing that he sees inspiring Clark to become Superman would be the return of Lex Luthor and the interaction between the two characters because you cannot have Superman without him. At the 2010 Comic-Con, Welling stated that Rosenbaum acknowledged the importance of Lex in the series and wants to return in some degree for the show's final season, but needs to iron details out. According to Welling, the series will tease early on that Lex will return with the idea of introducing bodies that he could tap into and heal himself later in life. Welling also stated that Lana could possibly have closure by season's end.
It was revealed on June 30, 2010, that John Schneider would be returning for the season premiere, and would ultimately film three total episodes for his return to the series. He will reprise his role in the episode "Kent", where Clark meets Jonathan Kent in an alternate universe. The actor will make his third guest appearance in the series finale, along with John Glover and Annette O'Toole
. The producers also worked to bring John Glover
back as Lionel Luthor
, Lex's father, and he will be returning for two episodes in late November. Laura Vandervoort
, who portrayed Clark's Kryptonian cousin Kara in season seven
would be returning for the season's third episode. According to Souders, Kara returns to Earth more as "Supergirl
" and less as "Kara". Souders emphasized that because Kara's return is in a heroic capacity, also revealing her ability to fly to the world, Kara works on developing an alter-ego through the use of eye glasses, a wig, and a new name—Linda Lee Danvers. In addition, Kara provides her own input into Clark's development of his "Superman" persona. On March 22, 2011, Michael Ausiello revealed that Vandervoort would return for the season's 20th episode, titled "Prophecy".
James Marsters
is confirmed to be returning for the series' 200th episode. Marsters first appeared as Brainiac/Milton Fine in season five
and again in season seven. This time, Marsters will be portraying Brainiac 5
, the version of Brainiac from the future that the Legion of Super-Heroes
created after removing the original version of Brainiac from Chloe's body in the season eight
episode "Legion". In addition, both Michael Shanks
and Jessica Parker Kennedy
will return as Hawkman/Carter Hall
and Plastique, respectively, in the second episode of season ten. Hawkman made a brief appearance in the season nine finale
, while Plastique was last seen in season eight
. The return of Carter Hall means a deeper look into who that character is, while seeing a "more human side" to him than previously seen. On August 11, it was announced that Michael Ironside
and Peyton List would be returning for a mid-October episode. Ironside previously portrayed Lois's father, General Sam Lane; while List played Lois's sister, Lucy. Both characters were last seen in separate season four
episodes. On September 7, 2010, it was revealed that Alan Ritchson would reprise the role of Arthur Curry/Aquaman
in a November episode. Ritchson described his character's return as "darker" and less "bubble-gummy" than previously seen on the show.
On July 22, 2010, Michael Ausiello revealed that Cat Grant
, a gossip columnist for the Daily Planet
in the comic books, would be appearing as Clark's new partner during season ten. Ausiello stated that Grant would act more as a "comedic foil" for Clark, and is not intended to interrupt the relationship he has with Lois. Instead, Grant will act as Lois's professional rival, and is considered by the producers to be her opposite. Keri Lynn Pratt
, who portrays Grant, stated that her character will have a crush on Clark, which will annoy Lois more than threaten her. Pratt described her characters motivations: "Cat really believes in what she's working on and her message. She just really wants to get that through and have everyone on the same page as her. She kind of loses track of the big picture".
This season was slated to see the introductions of villains Granny Goodness
, Desaad
, and Glorious Godfrey
. Lindsay Hartley
was cast as another of Darkseid
's minions, Mad Harriet
, who works for Granny Goodness. Hartley explained the traditional claws her characters wears are powered by kryptonite, which give her an advantage over Clark. Hartley also stated that Harriet is the leader of Granny Goodness' Female Furies.
In addition, Geoff Johns
, who previously wrote the introductions for the Legion of Super-Heroes
and the Justice Society of America
, will write an episode featuring the introduction of superheroes Blue Beetle
and Booster Gold
, along with Suicide Squad member Rick Flag
. In an interview with Comic Book Resources
TV, Johns noted that the version of Blue Beetle will be that of Jaime Reyes, and that Booster Gold will be modeled directly after his comic book counterpart, as far as personality and history. Johns also explained that the episode might also see the introduction of the second Blue Beetle Ted Kord
. He admitted that his choice in which comic book character to introduce was based solely on his personal preference, as he is a fan of Blue Beetle and Booster Gold and has a history of writing for those characters. These introductions will come at a time when Clark needs to have interactions with the characters to "propel him forward". He noted that the two characters embody what Clark needs to learn: being in the public eye and fully accepting his alien heritage. Johns pointed out that Booster Gold is all about being in the spotlight, while Clark is not. At the same time, Blue Beetle is trying to understand the alien technology he has been given. Johns also stated that Booster's introduction will serve to show Clark that society needs a hero to look up to.
On January 21, 2011, it was announced that Eric Martsolf
was cast as Booster Gold. Sebastian Spence
was cast as the Ted Kord version of the Blue Beetle and Jaren Brandt Bartlett as the Jaime Reyes version. In addition to the return of Lois's father and sister, Teri Hatcher
was cast as Lois's mother. Hatcher, who starred as Lois Lane for four seasons of Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman
, will appear in lost video footage that Lois discovers. Entertainment Weekly reported that Callum Blue will return for the 19th episode, "Dominion". On February 11, 2011, Michael Ausiello reported that after the back and forth speculation as to whether Rosenbaum would return to the series the actor finally agreed to appear in the series finale. Rosenbaum expressed that his return for the final episode was for the fans, stating, "I appreciate all of their passion, their relentlessness, and even their threats." On April 14, 2011, The Futon Critic's official CW press release announced the return of Chris Gauthier as Toyman.
finale, Peterson confirmed that the costume will return and play a more prominent role in the final season, even going as far as to hint that the last scene of Smallville will see Clark wearing it. The producers were able to acquire the Superman costume worn by Brandon Routh
in Superman Returns
. DC Comics offered the suit worn by Christopher Reeve
, but Peterson explained, "[it] just didn't quite fit with our world." Welling promised long-time viewers that, "Our number one goal this year is to wrap it up in a way that will satisfy the fans and give them hope that Clark has gone on to become Superman." Executive producer Kelly Souders said that in order for Clark to do this, Clark has to "wrestle" with the internal things that are preventing him from being an "inspirational hope". Though Clark is still in his "dark hour", he will become Superman by the end of the season. Peterson explained, "This year… the palette of the show will grow brighter and what he wears... is going to change;" Clark will end up exploring his destiny and work toward his future of becoming a hero.
.
Smallville
Smallville is the hometown of Superman in comic books published by DC Comics. While growing up in Smallville, the young Clark Kent attended Smallville High with best friends Lana Lang, Chloe Sullivan and Pete Ross...
, an American
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
television series, premiered on September 24, 2010 and consisted of 22 episodes. It was the tenth and final season to air, and the fifth one to air on The CW
The CW Television Network
The CW Television Network is a television network in the United States launched at the beginning of the 2006–2007 television season. It is a joint venture between CBS Corporation, the former owners of United Paramount Network , and Time Warner's Warner Bros., former majority owner of The WB...
television network. The series recounts the early adventures of Kryptonian
Krypton (comics)
Krypton is a fictional planet in the DC Comics universe, and the native world of the super-heroes Superman and, in some tellings, Supergirl and Krypto the Superdog. Krypton has been portrayed consistently as having been destroyed just after Superman's flight from the planet, with exact details of...
Clark Kent
Clark Kent (Smallville)
Clark Kent is a fictional character on the television series Smallville. The character of Clark Kent, first created for comic books by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster in 1938 as the alternate identity of Superman, was adapted to television in 2001 by Alfred Gough and Miles Millar—this is the fourth...
as he adjusts to life in the fictional town of Smallville, Kansas
Kansas
Kansas is a US state located in the Midwestern United States. It is named after the Kansas River which flows through it, which in turn was named after the Kansa Native American tribe, which inhabited the area. The tribe's name is often said to mean "people of the wind" or "people of the south...
, during the years before he becomes Superman
Superman
Superman is a fictional comic book superhero appearing in publications by DC Comics, widely considered to be an American cultural icon. Created by American writer Jerry Siegel and Canadian-born American artist Joe Shuster in 1932 while both were living in Cleveland, Ohio, and sold to Detective...
.
Regular cast members during season ten include Tom Welling
Tom Welling
Thomas John Patrick "Tom" Welling is an American actor, director, producer, and former model, best known for his portrayal of Clark Kent in the WB/CW series Smallville....
, Erica Durance
Erica Durance
Erica Durance is a Canadian actress. She has also been credited as Erica Parker. She is best known for her role as Lois Lane in the Superman-inspired television series Smallville.- Early life :...
, Justin Hartley
Justin Hartley
Justin Scott Hartley is an American actor, writer and director. He is best known for his roles of Fox Crane on the NBC daytime soap opera Passions, and as Oliver Queen/Green Arrow on the WB/CW Superman-inspired series Smallville....
, Cassidy Freeman
Cassidy Freeman
Cassidy Freeman is an American actress and musician. She is known for her role as Tess Mercer in The CW's Superman-inspired action drama Smallville, which she starred for three years.-Early life and education:...
, and Allison Mack
Allison Mack
Not to be confused with Alison MacAllison Mack is an American actress. She is best known for her role of Chloe Sullivan on the Superman-inspired television series Smallville.-Early life:...
. John Schneider
John Schneider (television actor)
John Richard Schneider III is an American actor and singer. He is best known for his portrayal of Bo Duke in the 1980s American television series The Dukes of Hazzard, and as Jonathan Kent on Smallville, a 2001 television adaptation of Superman.Alongside his acting career, Schneider performed as a...
, Annette O'Toole
Annette O'Toole
Annette O'Toole is an American actress, dancer, and singer-songwriter. She is most recently known for portraying Martha Kent, the mother of Clark Kent on the television series Smallville.-Early life and career:...
, John Glover
John Glover (actor)
John Soursby Glover Jr. is an American actor, perhaps best known for a range of villainous roles in films and television, including Lionel Luthor on the Superman-inspired television series Smallville.-Personal life:...
, Laura Vandervoort
Laura Vandervoort
Laura Dianne Vandervoort is a Canadian actress known for her roles as Kara Zor-El in the television series Smallville, Sadie Harrison in the television series Instant Star and Lisa in the television series V....
, and Callum Blue
Callum Blue
Daniel James Callum Blue , better known as Callum Blue, is an English film and television actor, best known for his roles on the Showtime series The Tudors and Dead Like Me as well as for his role as Zod in the American television series Smallville and British...
all returned sporadically throughout the season as Jonathan Kent, Martha Kent, Lionel Luthor
Lionel Luthor
Lionel Luthor is a fictional character in the television series Smallville, portrayed continuously by John Glover. Initially a recurring guest in season one, the character became a series regular in season two and continued with that status until he was written out of the show in the seventh season...
, Kara, and Zod respectively, while Michael Rosenbaum
Michael Rosenbaum
Michael Owen Rosenbaum is an American actor and director. He is best known for portraying Lex Luthor on the Superman-inspired television series Smallville and Dutch on FOX's Breaking In, and for providing the voice for the Flash in the DC animated universe...
(Lex Luthor
Lex Luthor (Smallville)
Lex Luthor is a fictional character from the television series Smallville. He was a series regular from the pilot episode until the season seven finale, and has been played continuously by Michael Rosenbaum, with various actors portraying Lex as a child throughout the series...
) and Aaron Ashmore
Aaron Ashmore
Aaron Robert Ashmore is a Canadian film and television actor, perhaps best known for his role as Jimmy Olsen in Smallville and as Steve Jinks in Warehouse 13. He is the twin brother of actor Shawn Ashmore.-Career:...
(Jimmy Olsen) returned for the series finale.
The final season of the series, season ten continues the romance first developed between Clark Kent
Clark Kent (Smallville)
Clark Kent is a fictional character on the television series Smallville. The character of Clark Kent, first created for comic books by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster in 1938 as the alternate identity of Superman, was adapted to television in 2001 by Alfred Gough and Miles Millar—this is the fourth...
and Lois Lane
Lois Lane (Smallville)
Lois Lane is a fictional character on the television series Smallville; she has been portrayed continually by Erica Durance since her first appearance in the season four premier "Crusade". Durance began as a guest star in season four, but was promoted to series regular status beginning in season five...
in season nine, as well as the continuation of Clark's trials, and the forging of his superhero identity "Superman". The season premiere was seen by 2.98 million U.S. viewers. The series finale aired on May 13, 2011. By the end of this season, Smallville had become the longest running science fiction television series in North America.
Starring
- Tom WellingTom WellingThomas John Patrick "Tom" Welling is an American actor, director, producer, and former model, best known for his portrayal of Clark Kent in the WB/CW series Smallville....
as Clark KentClark Kent (Smallville)Clark Kent is a fictional character on the television series Smallville. The character of Clark Kent, first created for comic books by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster in 1938 as the alternate identity of Superman, was adapted to television in 2001 by Alfred Gough and Miles Millar—this is the fourth... - Erica DuranceErica DuranceErica Durance is a Canadian actress. She has also been credited as Erica Parker. She is best known for her role as Lois Lane in the Superman-inspired television series Smallville.- Early life :...
as Lois LaneLois Lane (Smallville)Lois Lane is a fictional character on the television series Smallville; she has been portrayed continually by Erica Durance since her first appearance in the season four premier "Crusade". Durance began as a guest star in season four, but was promoted to series regular status beginning in season five... - Cassidy FreemanCassidy FreemanCassidy Freeman is an American actress and musician. She is known for her role as Tess Mercer in The CW's Superman-inspired action drama Smallville, which she starred for three years.-Early life and education:...
as Tess Mercer - Justin HartleyJustin HartleyJustin Scott Hartley is an American actor, writer and director. He is best known for his roles of Fox Crane on the NBC daytime soap opera Passions, and as Oliver Queen/Green Arrow on the WB/CW Superman-inspired series Smallville....
as Oliver Queen - Allison MackAllison MackNot to be confused with Alison MacAllison Mack is an American actress. She is best known for her role of Chloe Sullivan on the Superman-inspired television series Smallville.-Early life:...
as Chloe SullivanChloe SullivanChloe Sullivan is a fictional character from the television series Smallville. Series regular Allison Mack has portrayed the character since the pilot episode; two other actresses performed the role of Chloe Sullivan as a child. The character was created exclusively for Smallville, by series...
Episodes
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Development
On March 4, 2010, The CW announced that Smallville would be back for its tenth and final season, which will consist of 22 episodes. Tom WellingTom Welling
Thomas John Patrick "Tom" Welling is an American actor, director, producer, and former model, best known for his portrayal of Clark Kent in the WB/CW series Smallville....
, Erica Durance
Erica Durance
Erica Durance is a Canadian actress. She has also been credited as Erica Parker. She is best known for her role as Lois Lane in the Superman-inspired television series Smallville.- Early life :...
, Cassidy Freeman
Cassidy Freeman
Cassidy Freeman is an American actress and musician. She is known for her role as Tess Mercer in The CW's Superman-inspired action drama Smallville, which she starred for three years.-Early life and education:...
, Callum Blue
Callum Blue
Daniel James Callum Blue , better known as Callum Blue, is an English film and television actor, best known for his roles on the Showtime series The Tudors and Dead Like Me as well as for his role as Zod in the American television series Smallville and British...
, and Justin Hartley
Justin Hartley
Justin Scott Hartley is an American actor, writer and director. He is best known for his roles of Fox Crane on the NBC daytime soap opera Passions, and as Oliver Queen/Green Arrow on the WB/CW Superman-inspired series Smallville....
were the only regular cast members from the previous season that were contracted for the tenth season; although Blue was not picked up for the second year of his deal. As Allison Mack's contract was reportedly not renewed before the end of season nine, her status was in question. To put doubts to rest, executive producer Brian Peterson told Entertainment Weeklys Michael Ausiello that he was "very optimistic" that Allison Mack would be back.
The studio's official press release was presented on May 20, 2010 and confirmed that Smallville would be remaining at its Friday, 8 p.m. time slot. It also revealed that Smallville would be reteaming with Supernatural
Supernatural (TV series)
Supernatural is an American supernatural and horror television series created by Eric Kripke, which debuted on September 13, 2005 on The WB, and is now part of The CW's lineup. Starring Jared Padalecki as Sam Winchester and Jensen Ackles as Dean Winchester, the series follows the brothers as they...
, a series that was originally slotted just behind Smallville on Thursday nights for four seasons. The press release did not list Mack in the list of stars. On May 21, 2010, Mack released a statement confirming that she would not return as a series regular, but would return for multiple episodes to wind up her storyline. However, at the 2010 Comic-Con, Peterson stated that, despite her long absence and limited episode count, Mack would remain a series regular. Mack stated that her hope is that the character of Chloe will hold on to her integrity as the writers close out her storyline. For the actress, watching as her character matured over the years—from sacrificing the things she wanted for the sake of her friends, to finally reaching a point where she can strive to satisfy her own needs and wants—has been important for her. Tom Welling, who served as a part-time producer for season nine, was announced as a full executive producer for season ten. Welling is also set to direct two episodes this season, and Justin Hartley will be directing one episode.
Story
Souders and Peterson revealed that the theme for season ten will be "facing the ghosts of your past and how [the effect of seeing the past] helps you move on in the future"; as such, the return of previous cast members will play into this. Souders and Peterson have also chosen not to erase Lois's memory of Clark's secret, something she discovered in the season nine finale. Instead, Lois will help Clark do what he needs to do to get away and fulfill his destiny without telling him that she knows. The producers explained that there would be "some twists and turns" before Lois tells Clark that she knows. Initially helping Clark and Oliver at Watchtower, a secret from her past will define whether Tess ultimately ends on the side of good or bad. Chloe's ending will also be told "in a way that's fitting for Chloe." She will "sacrifice" herself for Oliver, who has been informed that she was killed. As a result, Oliver will spend much of the season looking for Chloe, trying to find who is behind her murder. In addition, Oliver is "literally and figuratively stripped down to his bare essence" early on this season.Similar to season eight and nine, there will also be a new main villain. The producers revealed that Darkseid
Darkseid
Darkseid is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by DC Comics. The character first appeared in Superman's Pal Jimmy Olsen #134 and was created by writer-artist Jack Kirby....
will fulfill this role for the final season, but will be a different incarnation than his comic book counterpart. They explained that Darkseid's presence will be felt throughout the whole season, but that he will not actually appear until near the end; unlike in previous seasons where the main villain was present from the start. Instead, Darkseid's minions—Granny Goodness, Desaad, Glorious Godfrey, and others to be named—will appear throughout the season as the physical presence for Clark to battle. That said, Darkseid will make an appearance in the season premiere, digitally created
Computer-generated imagery
Computer-generated imagery is the application of the field of computer graphics or, more specifically, 3D computer graphics to special effects in art, video games, films, television programs, commercials, simulators and simulation generally, and printed media...
to start with, but with "more solid forms" making a short appearance by the third episode. The plan is for Darkseid's presence to be established as he takes over the bodies of various characters. The executive producers also wanted to take a look at the history of Smallvilles Clark Kent in the 200th episode of the series. According to Peterson, "[The episode will] explore a little bit of the past, the present and the future. We kind of do a little look back to where we've been and we also take a look at where Clark is going."
When discussing how the series will end, Peterson stated that the creative team has had multiple visions of the finale episode since the show began. According to Peterson, there is the vision that series creators Miles Millar and Alfred Gough developed and shared with the team over the years. Then there is the vision that Peterson and the current set of executive producers have. The producer said that ultimately, the finale episode will be a combination of all their visions that he believes will not disappoint anyone. In addition, the producers stated that they "don't want to hold anything back" for this season, and "give the fans what they want to see".
Characters
With this being the show's final season, plans began to bring back previous cast members for at least one appearance. Welling has expressed his interest in having Annette O'TooleAnnette O'Toole
Annette O'Toole is an American actress, dancer, and singer-songwriter. She is most recently known for portraying Martha Kent, the mother of Clark Kent on the television series Smallville.-Early life and career:...
(Martha Kent), John Schneider (Jonathan Kent), Michael Rosenbaum
Michael Rosenbaum
Michael Owen Rosenbaum is an American actor and director. He is best known for portraying Lex Luthor on the Superman-inspired television series Smallville and Dutch on FOX's Breaking In, and for providing the voice for the Flash in the DC animated universe...
(Lex Luthor
Lex Luthor (Smallville)
Lex Luthor is a fictional character from the television series Smallville. He was a series regular from the pilot episode until the season seven finale, and has been played continuously by Michael Rosenbaum, with various actors portraying Lex as a child throughout the series...
), Kristin Kreuk
Kristin Kreuk
Kristin Laura Kreuk is a Canadian actress and producer, known for her portrayal of Lana Lang in the American television series Smallville. She was also a regular cast member on the Canadian teen drama Edgemont, and has starred in movies such as Eurotrip and Street Fighter: The Legend of...
(Lana Lang
Lana Lang (Smallville)
Lana Lang is a fictional character on the television series Smallville. She has been a series regular since the pilot episode, and has been played continuously by Kristin Kreuk, with two other actresses having portrayed Lana Lang as a child and as an elderly woman...
), and Michael McKean
Michael McKean
Michael John McKean is an American actor, comedian, writer, composer and musician, perhaps best known for his portrayal of Squiggy's friend, Leonard 'Lenny' Kosnowski, on the sitcom Laverne and Shirley; and for his work in the Christopher Guest ensemble films, particularly as David St...
(Perry White
Perry White
Perry White is a fictional character who appears in the Superman comics. White is the Editor-in-Chief of the Metropolis newspaper the Daily Planet.White maintains very high ethical and journalistic standards...
) return. Welling even stated he is doing "everything [he] can to get Michael Rosenbaum back". For Welling, Rosenbaum is the only person he can see portraying Lex Luthor on the series. He said that the thing that he sees inspiring Clark to become Superman would be the return of Lex Luthor and the interaction between the two characters because you cannot have Superman without him. At the 2010 Comic-Con, Welling stated that Rosenbaum acknowledged the importance of Lex in the series and wants to return in some degree for the show's final season, but needs to iron details out. According to Welling, the series will tease early on that Lex will return with the idea of introducing bodies that he could tap into and heal himself later in life. Welling also stated that Lana could possibly have closure by season's end.
It was revealed on June 30, 2010, that John Schneider would be returning for the season premiere, and would ultimately film three total episodes for his return to the series. He will reprise his role in the episode "Kent", where Clark meets Jonathan Kent in an alternate universe. The actor will make his third guest appearance in the series finale, along with John Glover and Annette O'Toole
Annette O'Toole
Annette O'Toole is an American actress, dancer, and singer-songwriter. She is most recently known for portraying Martha Kent, the mother of Clark Kent on the television series Smallville.-Early life and career:...
. The producers also worked to bring John Glover
John Glover (actor)
John Soursby Glover Jr. is an American actor, perhaps best known for a range of villainous roles in films and television, including Lionel Luthor on the Superman-inspired television series Smallville.-Personal life:...
back as Lionel Luthor
Lionel Luthor
Lionel Luthor is a fictional character in the television series Smallville, portrayed continuously by John Glover. Initially a recurring guest in season one, the character became a series regular in season two and continued with that status until he was written out of the show in the seventh season...
, Lex's father, and he will be returning for two episodes in late November. Laura Vandervoort
Laura Vandervoort
Laura Dianne Vandervoort is a Canadian actress known for her roles as Kara Zor-El in the television series Smallville, Sadie Harrison in the television series Instant Star and Lisa in the television series V....
, who portrayed Clark's Kryptonian cousin Kara in season seven
Smallville (season 7)
Season seven of Smallville, an American television series, began airing on September 27, 2007. The series recounts the early adventures of Kryptonian Clark Kent as he adjusts to life in the fictional town of Smallville, Kansas, during the years before he becomes Superman...
would be returning for the season's third episode. According to Souders, Kara returns to Earth more as "Supergirl
Supergirl
Supergirl is a female counterpart to the DC Comics Superman. As his cousin, she shares his super powers and vulnerability to Kryptonite. She was created by writer Otto Binder and designed by artist Al Plastino in 1959. She first appeared in the Action Comics comic book series and later branched out...
" and less as "Kara". Souders emphasized that because Kara's return is in a heroic capacity, also revealing her ability to fly to the world, Kara works on developing an alter-ego through the use of eye glasses, a wig, and a new name—Linda Lee Danvers. In addition, Kara provides her own input into Clark's development of his "Superman" persona. On March 22, 2011, Michael Ausiello revealed that Vandervoort would return for the season's 20th episode, titled "Prophecy".
James Marsters
James Marsters
James Wesley Marsters is an American actor and musician. Marsters first came to the attention of the general public playing the popular character Spike, a platinum-blond yobbish English vampire in the television series Buffy the Vampire Slayer and its spin-off series, Angel from 1997 to 2004...
is confirmed to be returning for the series' 200th episode. Marsters first appeared as Brainiac/Milton Fine in season five
Smallville (Season 5)
Season five of Smallville, an American television series, began airing on September 29, 2005. The series recounts the early adventures of Kryptonian Clark Kent as he adjusts to life in the fictional town of Smallville, Kansas, during the years before he becomes Superman...
and again in season seven. This time, Marsters will be portraying Brainiac 5
Brainiac 5
Brainiac 5 is a fictional character who exists in the 30th and 31st centuries of the DC Universe. He is a long standing member of the Legion of Super-Heroes. Brainiac 5 is from the planet Colu...
, the version of Brainiac from the future that the Legion of Super-Heroes
Legion of Super-Heroes
The Legion of Super-Heroes is a fictional superhero team in the 30th and 31st centuries of the . The team first appears in Adventure Comics #247 , and was created by Otto Binder and Al Plastino....
created after removing the original version of Brainiac from Chloe's body in the season eight
Smallville (season 8)
Season eight of Smallville, an American television series, began airing on September 18, 2008. The series recounts the early adventures of Kryptonian Clark Kent as he adjusts to life in the fictional town of Smallville, Kansas, during the years before he becomes Superman...
episode "Legion". In addition, both Michael Shanks
Michael Shanks
Michael Garrett Shanks is a Canadian actor who achieved fame for his role as Dr. Daniel Jackson in the long-running Canadian-American military science fiction television series Stargate SG-1.-Early life:...
and Jessica Parker Kennedy
Jessica Parker Kennedy
Jessica Parker Kennedy is a Canadian actress. She is perhaps best known for her recurring portrayal of the comic book character Plastique, in the Superman-inspired TV series, Smallville...
will return as Hawkman/Carter Hall
Hawkman
Hawkman is a fictional superhero who appears in comic books published by DC Comics. Created by writer Gardner Fox and artist Dennis Neville, the original Hawkman first appeared in Flash Comics #1, published by All-American Publications in 1940....
and Plastique, respectively, in the second episode of season ten. Hawkman made a brief appearance in the season nine finale
Smallville (season 9)
Season nine of Smallville, an American television series, began airing on September 25, 2009. The series recounts the early adventures of Kryptonian Clark Kent as he adjusts to life in the fictional town of Smallville, Kansas, during the years before he becomes Superman...
, while Plastique was last seen in season eight
Smallville (season 8)
Season eight of Smallville, an American television series, began airing on September 18, 2008. The series recounts the early adventures of Kryptonian Clark Kent as he adjusts to life in the fictional town of Smallville, Kansas, during the years before he becomes Superman...
. The return of Carter Hall means a deeper look into who that character is, while seeing a "more human side" to him than previously seen. On August 11, it was announced that Michael Ironside
Michael Ironside
Michael Ironside is a Canadian-born actor. He has also worked as a voice actor, producer, film director, and screenwriter in movie and television series in various Canadian and American productions. He is best known for playing villains and "tough guy" heroes, though he has also portrayed...
and Peyton List would be returning for a mid-October episode. Ironside previously portrayed Lois's father, General Sam Lane; while List played Lois's sister, Lucy. Both characters were last seen in separate season four
Smallville (Season 4)
Season four of Smallville, an American television series, began airing on September 22, 2004. The series recounts the early adventures of Kryptonian Clark Kent as he adjusts to life in the fictional town of Smallville, Kansas, during the years before he becomes Superman. The fourth season comprises...
episodes. On September 7, 2010, it was revealed that Alan Ritchson would reprise the role of Arthur Curry/Aquaman
Justice League (Smallville)
The Justice League is a fictional group of superheroes on the television series, Smallville, who were adapted for television by Alfred Gough and Miles Millar. The Justice League originally included Oliver Queen, Bart Allen, Victor Stone, and Arthur Curry; Clark Kent did not accept a role until...
in a November episode. Ritchson described his character's return as "darker" and less "bubble-gummy" than previously seen on the show.
On July 22, 2010, Michael Ausiello revealed that Cat Grant
Cat Grant
Catherine "Cat" Jane Grant is a fictional DC Comics character appearing in Superman comics. She first appeared in Adventures of Superman #424 as a gossip columnist for the Daily Planet...
, a gossip columnist for the Daily Planet
Daily Planet
The Daily Planet is a fictional broadsheet newspaper in the , appearing mostly in the stories of Superman. The building's original features were based upon the AT&T Huron Road Building in Cleveland, Ohio...
in the comic books, would be appearing as Clark's new partner during season ten. Ausiello stated that Grant would act more as a "comedic foil" for Clark, and is not intended to interrupt the relationship he has with Lois. Instead, Grant will act as Lois's professional rival, and is considered by the producers to be her opposite. Keri Lynn Pratt
Keri Lynn Pratt
Keri Lynn Pratt is an American actress of film and television. She is well known for her role of Missy Belknap on Jack & Bobby or as Dee Vine in the film Drive Me Crazy, which was her debut role....
, who portrays Grant, stated that her character will have a crush on Clark, which will annoy Lois more than threaten her. Pratt described her characters motivations: "Cat really believes in what she's working on and her message. She just really wants to get that through and have everyone on the same page as her. She kind of loses track of the big picture".
This season was slated to see the introductions of villains Granny Goodness
Granny Goodness
Granny Goodness is a fictional character, a deity and supervillain published by DC Comics. Created by Jack Kirby, Granny Goodness was modeled on comedienne Phyllis Diller and first appeared in Mister Miracle vol...
, Desaad
Desaad
Desaad is a fictional comic book supervillain, appearing in books published by DC Comics. He is one of the followers of Darkseid from the planet of Apokolips in Jack Kirby's Fourth World meta-series....
, and Glorious Godfrey
Glorious Godfrey
Glorious Godfrey is a DC Comics villain created by Jack Kirby, originally as part of The Fourth World series of comic books in the early 1970s. He first appeared in Forever People vol. 1 #3 .-Fictional character biography:...
. Lindsay Hartley
Lindsay Hartley
Lindsay Nicole Hartley is an American singer and actress. She is known for her role as Theresa Winthrop aka Theresa Lopez-Fitzgerald on Passions, Carolyn "Cara" Martin on All My Children and for her role as Arianna Hernandez on Days of our Lives.- Early life :Born in Palm Springs, California,...
was cast as another of Darkseid
Darkseid
Darkseid is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by DC Comics. The character first appeared in Superman's Pal Jimmy Olsen #134 and was created by writer-artist Jack Kirby....
's minions, Mad Harriet
Mad Harriet
Mad Harriet is a fictional character in the DC Comics universe. She first appeared in Mister Miracle vol. 1 #6 , and was created by Jack Kirby.-History:...
, who works for Granny Goodness. Hartley explained the traditional claws her characters wears are powered by kryptonite, which give her an advantage over Clark. Hartley also stated that Harriet is the leader of Granny Goodness' Female Furies.
In addition, Geoff Johns
Geoff Johns
Geoff Johns is an American comic book writer, best known for his work for DC Comics, where he has been Chief Creative Officer since February 2010, in particular for characters such as Green Lantern, The Flash and Superman...
, who previously wrote the introductions for the Legion of Super-Heroes
Legion of Super-Heroes
The Legion of Super-Heroes is a fictional superhero team in the 30th and 31st centuries of the . The team first appears in Adventure Comics #247 , and was created by Otto Binder and Al Plastino....
and the Justice Society of America
Justice Society of America
The Justice Society of America, or JSA, is a DC Comics superhero group, the first team of superheroes in comic book history. Conceived by editor Sheldon Mayer and writer Gardner Fox, the JSA first appeared in All Star Comics #3 ....
, will write an episode featuring the introduction of superheroes Blue Beetle
Blue Beetle
Blue Beetle is the name of three fictional superheroes that appear in American comic books published by a variety of companies since 1939.-Publication history:...
and Booster Gold
Booster Gold
Booster Gold is a fictional DC Comics superhero. Created by Dan Jurgens, he first appeared in Booster Gold #1 and has been a member of the Justice League, DC Comics' all-star team of heroes. The character is initially depicted as a glory-seeking showboat from the future, using knowledge of...
, along with Suicide Squad member Rick Flag
Rick Flag
Rick Flag is the name of three fictional characters in the DC Comics universe. They are father, son, and grandson.The father, Richard Flag was in the original Suicide Squad, a World War II unit. After the war he was a member of Task Force X. The son, Rick Flag Jr...
. In an interview with Comic Book Resources
Comic Book Resources
Comic Book Resources, also known as CBR is a website dedicated to the coverage of comic book-related news and discussion.-History:Comic Book Resources was founded by Jonah Weiland in 1996 as a development of the Kingdom Come Message Board, a message forum that Weiland had created to discuss DC...
TV, Johns noted that the version of Blue Beetle will be that of Jaime Reyes, and that Booster Gold will be modeled directly after his comic book counterpart, as far as personality and history. Johns also explained that the episode might also see the introduction of the second Blue Beetle Ted Kord
Blue Beetle (Ted Kord)
Blue Beetle is the second Blue Beetle, a superhero who was originally published by Charlton Comics and later picked up by DC Comics...
. He admitted that his choice in which comic book character to introduce was based solely on his personal preference, as he is a fan of Blue Beetle and Booster Gold and has a history of writing for those characters. These introductions will come at a time when Clark needs to have interactions with the characters to "propel him forward". He noted that the two characters embody what Clark needs to learn: being in the public eye and fully accepting his alien heritage. Johns pointed out that Booster Gold is all about being in the spotlight, while Clark is not. At the same time, Blue Beetle is trying to understand the alien technology he has been given. Johns also stated that Booster's introduction will serve to show Clark that society needs a hero to look up to.
On January 21, 2011, it was announced that Eric Martsolf
Eric Martsolf
Eric Martsolf is an American television actor and singer best known for his role as Ethan Winthrop in the NBC soap opera Passions from 2002 to 2008. He is currently playing the role of Brady Black on NBC's Days of our Lives....
was cast as Booster Gold. Sebastian Spence
Sebastian Spence
Sebastian Spence is an actor who played the lead role as Cade Foster in the TV series First Wave.Spence is the son of the late playwright Michael Cook and playwright and actress Janis Spence...
was cast as the Ted Kord version of the Blue Beetle and Jaren Brandt Bartlett as the Jaime Reyes version. In addition to the return of Lois's father and sister, Teri Hatcher
Teri Hatcher
Teri Lynn Hatcher is an American actress, writer, and presenter. She is known for her television roles as Susan Mayer on the ABC comedy-drama series Desperate Housewives, and Lois Lane on the ABC comedy-drama series Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman...
was cast as Lois's mother. Hatcher, who starred as Lois Lane for four seasons of Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman
Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman
Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman was a live-action American television series based on the Superman comic books...
, will appear in lost video footage that Lois discovers. Entertainment Weekly reported that Callum Blue will return for the 19th episode, "Dominion". On February 11, 2011, Michael Ausiello reported that after the back and forth speculation as to whether Rosenbaum would return to the series the actor finally agreed to appear in the series finale. Rosenbaum expressed that his return for the final episode was for the fans, stating, "I appreciate all of their passion, their relentlessness, and even their threats." On April 14, 2011, The Futon Critic's official CW press release announced the return of Chris Gauthier as Toyman.
Superman mythology
With a glimpse of the iconic Superman costume in the season nineSmallville (season 9)
Season nine of Smallville, an American television series, began airing on September 25, 2009. The series recounts the early adventures of Kryptonian Clark Kent as he adjusts to life in the fictional town of Smallville, Kansas, during the years before he becomes Superman...
finale, Peterson confirmed that the costume will return and play a more prominent role in the final season, even going as far as to hint that the last scene of Smallville will see Clark wearing it. The producers were able to acquire the Superman costume worn by Brandon Routh
Brandon Routh
Brandon James Routh is an American actor and former fashion model. He grew up in Iowa before moving to Los Angeles to pursue an acting career, and subsequently appeared on multiple television series throughout the early 2000s. In 2006, he gained greater recognition for his role as the titular hero...
in Superman Returns
Superman Returns
Superman Returns is a 2006 superhero film directed by Bryan Singer. It is the fifth and final installment in the original Superman film series and serves as a alternate sequel to Superman and Superman II by ignoring the events of Superman III and Superman IV: The Quest for Peace .The film stars...
. DC Comics offered the suit worn by Christopher Reeve
Christopher Reeve
Christopher D'Olier Reeve was an American actor, film director, producer, screenwriter, author and activist...
, but Peterson explained, "[it] just didn't quite fit with our world." Welling promised long-time viewers that, "Our number one goal this year is to wrap it up in a way that will satisfy the fans and give them hope that Clark has gone on to become Superman." Executive producer Kelly Souders said that in order for Clark to do this, Clark has to "wrestle" with the internal things that are preventing him from being an "inspirational hope". Though Clark is still in his "dark hour", he will become Superman by the end of the season. Peterson explained, "This year… the palette of the show will grow brighter and what he wears... is going to change;" Clark will end up exploring his destiny and work toward his future of becoming a hero.
Broadcast and reception
The season ten premiere brought in 2.98 million viewers, the highest viewing figures The CW have had in the Friday 8-9 pm timeslot in over two years. The series finale brought in 3.02 million viewers. By the end of its tenth season, Smallville became the longest running science fiction television show in the United States; it broke the Guinness World Record held by Stargate SG-1Stargate SG-1
Stargate SG-1 is a Canadian-American adventure and military science fiction television series and part of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer's Stargate franchise. The show, created by Brad Wright and Jonathan Glassner, is based on the 1994 feature film Stargate by Dean Devlin and Roland Emmerich...
.