Superman, the Last Son of Krypton!
He’s a symbol of hope and justice, but also an alien grappling with humanity… capturing this duality on screen is a challenge for any actor.
Here’s how some of the actors who donned the cape (or voiced the character) rank among DC fans, based on their portrayal of Superman aka Clark Kent!
9/9 DEAN CAIN
Dean Cain’s Superman in Lois & Clark was undeniably charming.
He brought a wholesome, optimistic energy to the role that resonated with audiences in the 1990s, he excelled at portraying Clark Kent, DC’s iconic mild-mannered reporter.
His transformation into the confident superhero that is Superman felt… believable.
However, some fans felt his Superman lacked the necessary depth and power – the series itself leaned towards a lighthearted, comedic tone, which didn’t always allow Cain to showcase the full range of Superman’s heroism.
8/9 GEORGE NEWBERN
For many DC fans, George Newbern’s voice is synonymous with Superman – from the iconic Superman: The Animated Series to recent appearances in Justice League Action, Newbern has delivered a consistently strong vocal performance throughout his career.
He captures the inherent heroism and leadership of Superman while injecting a touch of vulnerability that makes the character relatable.
Although it isn’t a live-action portrayal, Newbern’s enduring voice-acting career has earned him a well-deserved spot on this list.
7/9 GEORGE REEVES
George Reeves was a pioneer, which is needless to say.
He was the first actor to bring Superman to television in a sustained way – his portrayal in the black-and-white serials of the 1950s defined Superman for generations to come.
George embodied the classic Superman, battling mad scientists and rescuing Lois Lane from peril while the special effects of the era seem quaint today, Reeves’ dedication and sincerity in the role shone through.
His portrayal laid the groundwork for future Superman actors, easily.
6/9 BRANDON ROUTH
He captured the hopeful optimism and earnestness that Reeve brought to the role.
However, Superman Returns itself received mixed reviews, and Routh’s limited screen time didn’t allow him to fully develop the character.
Later, in DC’s Legends of Tomorrow, Routh got to explore a more jaded and world-weary Superman from another universe, showcasing his acting range.
5/9 TIM DALY
While not the sole voice actor for Superman in the iconic Superman: The Animated Series, Tim Daly delivered a memorable performance alongside the aforementioned George Newbern.
Daly brought a youthful earnestness to Clark Kent, perfectly contrasting with Newbern’s more seasoned Superman.
Together, they offered a nuanced and complete portrayal of the character.
Daly’s voice acting helped flesh out the emotional core of Superman for a generation of fans.
4/9 TOM WELLING
Tom Welling’s Clark Kent in the Smallville series holds a special place in the hearts of many DC fans.
The series chronicled Clark’s journey from a young boy discovering his powers to becoming the hero he’s destined to be – Welling’s portrayal captured the internal struggle of Clark balancing his human life with his Kryptonian heritage.
While he never donned the iconic red cape in the series finale (a creative decision that sparked debate among fans), Welling’s ten-year performance as Clark Kent undeniably shaped how a generation viewed Superman.
3/9 TYLER HOECHLIN
Tyler Hoechlin’s Superman is a more recent addition to the pantheon.
Having portrayed the character in both Supergirl and the new series Superman & Lois, Hoechlin brings a confident and grounded portrayal of Superman.
He excels at showcasing the strength and leadership of Superman while also conveying the warmth and compassion that defines Clark Kent.
With Superman & Lois – focusing on Clark’s role as a husband and father – Hoechlin is bringing a fresh perspective to the character, one that resonates with modern audiences.
2/9 HENRY CAVILL
Henry Cavill’s portrayal of Superman in Zack Snyder’s DC Extended Universe aka DCEU is a powerful and imposing one, to say the least.
Cavill’s physical stature perfectly embodies the Man of Steel as well as bringing a stoic seriousness to the role.
However, some fans find this portrayal a bit too brooding, missing the inherent optimism that is a core part of Superman’s character.
Additionally, the DCEU films haven’t always given Cavill the opportunity to fully explore the emotional range of Clark Kent.
Despite these criticisms, Cavill delivers a powerful and action-packed Superman and is still considered to be the best live-action actor in the role since the number one name below!
1/9 CHRISTOPHER REEVE
Christopher Reeve remains the gold standard for many DC fans – his portrayal of Superman in his classic movies is still iconic to this day.
He embodied the perfect balance of strength, optimism, and charisma.
He brought a genuine kindness to Clark Kent that made audiences believe he was truly a good man – whether rescuing Lois Lane or saving the world, Reeve’s Superman inspired hope and heroism.
Reeve’s performance transcended the special effects of the time.
He made audiences believe a man could fly, more importantly, he made audiences believe that anyone could be a hero, just like Superman.
The tragic accident that left Reeve paralyzed only solidified his connection to the character, his unwavering spirit became an inspiration, mirroring the hope Superman represents.
Source: Ranker (as of August 11, 2024) – this public ranking may be subject to change.
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