Could "Smallville" be remade today?

No, according to the show's creators Al Gough and Miles Millar, the premise of "Smallville" would not be allowed today due to its non-canonical approach to the Superman mythology.

What made "Smallville" unique?

The creators explain that the show's ability to freely explore new ideas and make changes to the established Superman lore was key to its success, but this approach would not be permitted in the current superhero storytelling landscape.

How has superhero storytelling evolved since "Smallville"?

The article suggests that the current audience's deep familiarity with live-action superhero stories would make it challenging to replicate "Smallville's" approach, which was groundbreaking at the time.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / "Smallville" Creators Explain Why Iconic Show Couldn't Be Made Today

"Smallville" Creators Explain Why Iconic Show Couldn't Be Made Today

10 Nov

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Summary

"Smallville" creators say the show's premise would not be allowed today
Show's non-canon approach to Superman mythology was key to its success
Superhero storytelling has evolved, making "Smallville's" approach unacceptable

"Smallville" Creators Explain Why Iconic Show Couldn't Be Made Today

As of November 10th, 2025, the creators of the hit TV series "Smallville" are reflecting on the show's lasting impact and why it could not be made today. Al Gough and Miles Millar, who developed the "young Superman" drama that ran from 2001 to 2011, are currently enjoying success with their latest project, Netflix's "Wednesday."

However, the duo acknowledges that the freedom they had with "Smallville" would not be granted in today's superhero-saturated entertainment industry. Millar explains that the show's core premise, which included Clark Kent arriving in the meteor shower that killed people and Lex Luthor being present, were completely new additions to the Superman mythology. These creative liberties, which were key to the show's success, would "categorically" not be allowed today.

Gough and Millar believe the current audience's intimate familiarity with live-action superhero storytelling would make it challenging to replicate "Smallville's" approach. While a remake could potentially subvert or exceed expectations, the creators suggest it would be difficult to tread the same familiar path that made the original series so groundbreaking and popular over its decade-long run.

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