In a major treat for superhero fans, Netflix has quietly added the complete series of the acclaimed drama 'Smallville' to its UK library. All ten seasons of the show, which meticulously charts the teenage years and early adulthood of Clark Kent before he becomes Superman, are now available to stream.
The Journey from Small Town to Superhero
The series, which ran from 2001 to 2011, stars Tom Welling as a young Clark Kent navigating life in his fictional hometown of Smallville, Kansas. The first five seasons focus on his high school experiences, including his complex relationship with Lana Lang (Kristin Kreuk) and his fateful friendship with the future villain Lex Luthor, played by Michael Rosenbaum.
Later seasons follow Clark as he moves to Metropolis, begins his career at the Daily Planet, and meets iconic characters like Lois Lane (Erica Durance). The show's blend of teen drama and superhero mythology culminated in it becoming the longest-running sci-fi TV series in North American history by the time it concluded.
A Lasting Legacy and Critical Acclaim
Since its release on Netflix, fans have been flocking online to celebrate the show's arrival. The series holds a 78% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising its fresh take on the Superman lore. Time magazine noted it "rethinks familiar Superman motifs in fresh ways," while the Los Angeles Times called it "the best-ever TV depiction of the big fellow."
Viewer reviews highlight its enduring appeal. One fan on IMDB described it as "one of my favourite rewatches," praising the cast's chemistry and complex relationships. Another shared the "emptiness" they felt after finishing the series, underscoring its emotional impact.
Where is Clark Kent Now? Tom Welling's Peaceful Life
The actor who brought Clark Kent to life, Tom Welling, now 48, has traded the bustle of Los Angeles for a quieter existence. Five years ago, he and his wife, equestrian Jessica Rose Lee, moved to a ranch in Northern California to breed sport horses.
"No one bothers you in a small town," Welling told People magazine, laughing that "everyone's famous in a small town." Despite stepping back from the Hollywood spotlight, he hasn't left the industry entirely. He currently co-hosts the 'Smallville' rewatch podcast 'TalkVille' with Michael Rosenbaum and is set to appear in the upcoming comedy 'Chasing Summer'.
Reflecting on the show's persistent popularity, Welling said, "I think it's amazing that something we made all those years ago still means so much to people." He likened his time on the series to a master's degree in television, joking that since neither he nor his character knew what they were doing at the start, it was a perfect fit.
The arrival of the entire 'Smallville' saga on Netflix offers a new generation the chance to discover this cornerstone of superhero television, while providing longtime fans the perfect opportunity for a nostalgic binge-watch of Clark Kent's formative years.
