Will Smallville Rise Again? Tom Welling Weighs in on a Potential Animated Sequel

As we eagerly await the launch of James Gunn’s DC Universe, fans are left wondering: could a Smallville sequel be on the horizon? With the upcoming changes and expansions in the DC landscape, there’s a buzz surrounding the possibility of bringing back one of the most beloved shows in the franchise. In this article, we dive into the latest updates from Tom Welling and his co-star Michael Rosenbaum about their plans for a Smallville animated series and what it could mean for fans.

The Dawn of a New Era in DC

James Gunn’s vision for the DC Universe promises a fresh start for beloved characters in live-action and animation. The new direction includes a comprehensive slate of films and shows designed to reinvigorate the franchise. Among the many discussions happening behind the scenes is the potential resurrection of Smallville, a series that has left an indelible mark on DC fandom.

The Animated Sequel: A New Chapter for Smallville

Recently, Welling, who famously portrayed Clark Kent, shared exciting news regarding an animated Smallville project he’s working on with Rosenbaum, who played Lex Luthor. In a recent interview with Screen Rant, Welling revealed that they have taken significant steps toward developing this animated sequel.

“We just need Warner Bros. and DC to let us do it,” Welling stated. “We’ve got Al Gough and Miles Millar, the original creators of Smallville, who are ready to write it. It’s a passion project for us, not a blockbuster; it’s for the fans.” This is a crucial point fans of the series still hold a deep love for the characters and their journeys, making this potential project resonate on a personal level.

What’s Stopping the Sequel from Becoming a Reality?

Despite the enthusiasm from Welling and Rosenbaum, the fate of the animated series rests with Warner Bros. and DC Studios. So, what’s the holdup? It appears that the powers that be are focused on their upcoming slate, known as Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters, which may delay any discussions regarding a Smallville revival.

Timing is Everything

In the same interview, Rosenbaum remarked, “It has to be the right time, and right now is not the right time,” highlighting the importance of timing in the entertainment industry. While there’s clearly a desire to bring back the beloved show, both Welling and Rosenbaum acknowledge that they need to wait until the creators, Gough and Millar, have more bandwidth, as they are currently busy with Netflix’s Wednesday.

The Unbreakable Bond Between Welling and Rosenbaum

Welling and Rosenbaum share a special connection, not only as co-stars but as friends who have navigated the challenges of the entertainment industry together. Celebrating 300 episodes of Rosenbaum’s podcast, Inside of You, Welling reminisced about their time on Smallville and hinted at his willingness to reprise his role. “Of course! I mean, listen, I was thinking about this the other day. We were on one of the most successful shows in television history,” he said.

Their chemistry on and off-screen is evident, and fans can’t help but hope that they can rekindle the magic of Smallville in an animated format.

The Legacy of Smallville

A Show that Changed the Game

Smallville was ground breaking in many ways. It introduced a new generation to the Superman mythos, focusing on Clark Kent’s transformation from a teenage boy to a hero. Over ten seasons, the series explored themes of friendship, love, and identity while maintaining a gripping narrative filled with action and intrigue.

Even after the series concluded in 2011, Smallville continued to resonate with audiences. The show’s exploration of Clark’s origins laid the groundwork for countless adaptations and has remained a touchstone for superhero storytelling.

The Superman Connection

Superman remains one of the most iconic characters in the DC Comics universe, and Smallville played a crucial role in shaping his portrayal. The character has been adapted countless times, from the classic 1978 film starring Christopher Reeve to recent portrayals in the DC Extended Universe featuring Henry Cavill.

With Gunn’s upcoming Superman: Legacy set for a July 2025 release, could the return of Smallville be part of the broader DC revival? Many fans believe it should. The animated format opens new avenues for storytelling, allowing the creators to delve deeper into the characters’ lives in a way that live-action constraints might not allow.

The Potential of an Animated Sequel

Why Animation?

The decision to create an animated sequel may just be the perfect solution for Smallville. Animation provides the freedom to explore various storylines, characters, and even fantastical elements that might be difficult to realize in live-action.

In addition, with the increasing popularity of animated superhero shows, now is an opportune time to revive Smallville in this format. Many fans appreciate the depth and creativity that animation can offer, making it an ideal medium for returning to the beloved world of Clark Kent and his friends.

The Importance of Fan Engagement

As Welling pointed out, this animated project is driven by passion, not profit. “All the actors want to do the voices of the characters we’re all in,” he said. This commitment to fan engagement is crucial in today’s entertainment landscape. When creators genuinely listen to their audience, the results can be magical.

The loyalty of Smallville’s fanbase is undeniable. Over the years, fans have expressed their desire to see the continuation of these characters’ journeys, and an animated series could fulfil that longing in a meaningful way.

What’s Next for the DC Universe?

With the establishment of James Gunn’s DC Universe, there is an air of excitement about what the future holds. As the DC landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the animated Smallville project fits into the larger narrative.

Gunn has made it clear that he is open to exploring different styles and genres within the DC Universe, suggesting that there may be a place for the nostalgic charm of Smallville in this new era.

Elseworlds: A Space for Smallville

Amidst the focus on the main continuity, there is also the Elseworlds banner that allows for standalone stories outside the primary DC Universe. This could be the perfect home for an animated Smallville sequel, giving it the creative freedom to explore alternative narratives without conflicting with the core continuity.

Looking Forward: A Bright Future for Smallville

The desire for a Smallville revival has never been stronger, and with the right timing and support, fans could soon find themselves back in the world they love. Welling and Rosenbaum’s commitment to the project and their passion for the characters are encouraging signs that this dream may become a reality.

As we eagerly await the next steps, it’s crucial for fans to show their support. Whether through social media campaigns, petitions, or simply sharing their love for the show, every little bit helps. The power of fandom cannot be underestimated; it has the ability to influence decision-makers and shape the future of beloved properties.

Keep the Hope Alive

While the path to a Smallville animated sequel may be filled with obstacles, the enthusiasm from Tom Welling, Michael Rosenbaum, and the fans remains steadfast. As the DC Universe embarks on this new journey, there’s hope that Smallville will not only be remembered but celebrated once again.

So, let’s rally together and keep the hope alive for our favourite characters. Because who wouldn’t want to see Clark Kent don the cape and return to the screen, even if it’s in animated form? With the right timing and support from the powers that be, a Smallville revival may be just around the corner. Here’s to dreaming big and holding on to the stories that have shaped our love for the superhero genre!