EvelynSmallville’s Animated Sequel: Tom Welling Talks Delays, Studio Silence, and Fan Hopes
It’s been over 13 years since Smallville aired its final episode, yet the love for this coming-of-age Superman series has endured among fans. With talks of a potential animated sequel spearheaded by stars Tom Welling (Clark Kent) and Michael Rosenbaum (Lex Luthor), many are eager to see the story continue. However, despite the passion behind the project, Warner Bros. Discovery has not given it the green light, and according to Welling, communication from the studio has been minimal. Here’s a closer look at where things stand with the proposed Smallville animated series, based on Welling’s recent comments and what they mean for the beloved show’s possible revival.
The Concept of a Smallville Animated Sequel
For years, Welling and Rosenbaum have floated the idea of a Smallville revival, a testament to both the fan enthusiasm and the actors’ enduring love for their characters. The animated series concept, according to Welling, is not about creating a blockbuster but rather a passion project that reunites the cast and crew who brought Smallville to life. An animated format would allow the story to continue without needing a live-action production, sidestepping the challenges of age and physical continuity, and opening up possibilities for new, visually creative storytelling. This idea took shape, as Welling and Rosenbaum developed a pitch with artwork and even a poster, but they’re still waiting on Warner Bros. Discovery’s approval to move forward.
Welling’s Struggle for Studio Support
At Stockholm Comic-Con, Welling was candid about the challenges in getting a response from Warner Bros. Discovery. He explained that despite several attempts to communicate, they haven’t received any feedback from the studio, leaving them at an impasse. “We haven’t even gotten a response!” Welling said, jokingly adding that Warner Bros.’ non-response is simply a reflection of where the project ranks on their priority list.
Welling clarified that while he isn’t upset with the studio, it’s clear that this fan-driven idea may not align with Warner Bros. Discovery’s current goals. With the company undergoing restructuring and a new DC Studios regime under James Gunn, many legacy projects and smaller properties might not be prioritized at the moment. For Welling and Rosenbaum, however, this project is less about financial gain and more about celebrating a series that has impacted countless fans.
Could James Gunn’s DC Studios Open a Door for Smallville?
James Gunn, now co-CEO of DC Studios, has a longstanding friendship with Rosenbaum, who appeared in Gunn’s Guardians of the Galaxy movies. Fans and interviewers have speculated that Rosenbaum might use this connection to help bring the Smallville sequel to life. Welling has acknowledged the possibility, adding, “I know! We joked about it. Michael says, ‘Oh, James is so busy.’” While Gunn’s primary focus remains on establishing a fresh DC Universe, the idea of Smallville fitting into the Elseworlds banner where side projects outside the main continuity could flourish offers some hope.
As DC Studios continues to refine its content strategy, there’s potential for Smallville to find a home as an “Elseworlds” project, much like Matt Reeves’ The Batman and Todd Phillips’ Joker. This approach would allow the Smallville animated series to coexist with Gunn’s new DC Universe without compromising continuity. For now, though, all fans can do is wait and hope that Gunn’s DC Studios will consider the project down the line.
The Potential Role of Original Creators Al Gough and Miles Millar
The vision for the Smallville animated sequel includes the involvement of original creators Al Gough and Miles Millar. According to Welling, Gough and Millar have expressed interest in contributing to the revival but have scheduling conflicts due to their work on Wednesday, a recent hit series with Tim Burton. Despite their busy schedules, their involvement is essential for Welling and Rosenbaum, who want to maintain the authenticity of Smallville’s tone and storytelling. Welling commented, “We want Al and Miles to write it,” underscoring the respect he holds for the original creators’ contributions.
Plot Speculations and Possible Changes
While Welling hasn’t disclosed specifics about the plot of the Smallville animated series, the return of familiar characters and an exploration of unresolved storylines are likely on the table. One intriguing element Welling teased is the inclusion of Lionel Luthor, a complex character portrayed by John Glover, who was killed off in season 7. How Lionel would be incorporated into the story remains a mystery, as Welling remained tight-lipped about his return. This teaser alone, however, has fueled fan speculation, especially as Lionel’s presence would add compelling tension to the story’s continuation.
Another potential storyline that fans have speculated about involves the Smallville Season 11 comic series, which extended the story after the show’s conclusion. However, Welling admitted that he has yet to read the comics, joking that although he has signed copies for fans, he’s never actually opened one. The comics could provide a foundation or inspiration for the animated series, though it’s unclear if the creators intend to use the storylines established there.
The Fandom Behind the Smallville Sequel Project
A unique aspect of the Smallville animated series is that it is largely fan-driven. While Smallville has always had a passionate fanbase, the excitement surrounding this potential revival demonstrates the enduring popularity of the show and its impact on viewers. Through events like the Talk Ville Podcast and upcoming Cruiseville event in 2025, Welling and Rosenbaum continue to celebrate their time on Smallville, engaging with fans and keeping the spirit of the show alive. These initiatives have not only rekindled nostalgia but have also emphasized the desire for a continuation in some form, sparking even more interest in the potential animated sequel.
Welling and Rosenbaum’s Talk Ville Podcast, which airs new episodes every Wednesday on YouTube and various podcast platforms, revisits episodes of Smallville, with both stars providing behind-the-scenes insights and reflections. This podcast serves as a bridge between the original series and the animated continuation they hope to bring to life, reinforcing the strength of the Smallville community.
What Welling’s Comments Mean for the Future of Smallville
Welling’s recent comments shed light on the complex path ahead for the Smallville animated series. While the project isn’t dead, it’s currently stalled due to Warner Bros. Discovery’s apparent disinterest in revisiting the series. However, given the numerous regime changes and ongoing retooling at DC Studios, the possibility of a Smallville revival may only be a matter of timing. As Warner Bros. Discovery and DC Studios establish their new content direction, the animated series could still find a place, especially if it gains traction under the Elseworlds banner.
In the meantime, Welling and Rosenbaum continue to engage the Smallville fandom, keeping interest alive while hoping for a positive response from Warner Bros. Discovery. With the recent developments at DC Studios, it’s possible that Smallville could return to screens, giving fans a long-awaited continuation of Clark Kent’s journey.
Final Thoughts: Will the Smallville Animated Sequel Ever Happen?
The future of Smallville’s animated sequel remains uncertain, but Tom Welling’s candid remarks provide both hope and realism. This is a project born out of love for the series and its fans rather than commercial gain, which may eventually work in its favor. The recent overhaul at Warner Bros. Discovery and DC Studios could open doors for legacy projects like Smallville, though fans may have to be patient as the new leadership prioritizes major DC Universe titles.
For those still holding out hope, Smallville: The Complete Series is available on Blu-ray/DVD and streaming, allowing fans to relive the iconic series while awaiting any news about the animated sequel. Until Warner Bros. Discovery makes a decision, fans can continue to enjoy Talk Ville and look forward to the Cruiseville event, which keeps the Smallville spirit alive. Whether or not the animated sequel is realized, Smallville’s legacy endures, and its place in the hearts of fans is as strong as ever.
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