UPDATE: In a stunning turn of events, Netflix is witnessing a significant surge in viewership for the iconic series Smallville, just as James Gunn‘s new Superman film dominates the box office with over $618 million globally. As of today, the beloved show has climbed to No. 8 on Netflix’s Global Top 10 TV Shows chart, rekindling interest in the superhero’s origin story that captivated audiences from 2001 to 2011.
This revival comes at a pivotal moment for Superman, with Gunn’s 2025 film marking a fresh chapter in the hero’s cinematic journey. Fans are eager to delve into the backstory of Clark Kent, portrayed by Tom Welling, who navigates adolescence while uncovering his alien heritage. With the latest film leaving out the origin narrative, Smallville offers a compelling glimpse into the character’s formative years, featuring conflicts with iconic foes like Lex Luthor.
The cultural impact of Superman has endured since his debut in Action Comics Issue #1 in 1938, making him a cornerstone of superhero lore. Even today, he inspires numerous adaptations across various media, including films and television series. The recent success of the new Superman film has not only revived interest in his story but also paved the way for new projects under the DCU umbrella.
In addition to the excitement surrounding Smallville, Warner Bros. and Gunn have announced several upcoming projects, including a Supergirl movie starring Milly Alcock as Kara Zor-El. Fans can also look forward to a sequel titled Man of Tomorrow, featuring David Corenswet as Superman and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, who will face off against the villain Brainiac, played by Lars Eidinger.
Moreover, a spin-off series centered on Jimmy Olsen, portrayed by Skyler Gisondo, is in development, described as a “true crime” docuseries with confirmed appearances by notorious villains like Gorilla Grodd. While a release date for this project remains undisclosed, the anticipation is palpable.
With the resurgence of Smallville on the streaming platform, fans are encouraged to revisit the series that shaped the early 2000s superhero narrative. The show has received critical acclaim, boasting a 78% critic score and a 72% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, further solidifying its status as a beloved classic.
As of now, the excitement for Superman is at an all-time high, and with each new announcement from the DCU, fans have much to look forward to. Stay tuned for further developments as the superhero saga continues to unfold.
