When ‘Smallville‘ wrapped up its 10-season journey, fans finally saw Clark Kent take a major step toward becoming Superman. In a surprising reveal, Tom Welling, who played Clark, recently shared that the series finale could have played out quite differently.
During a talk reported by Screenrant at Comic Con Stockholm, Welling offered fans a unique glimpse behind the scenes. Moreover, he revealed both his influence on the show’s closing moments and the surprising truth about his “Superman suit.” Here’s everything he said.
The Original Ending For ‘Smallville’ Had Clark Kent In A Full Blown Superman Suit
For years, Tom Welling had been upfront about his desire not to wear Superman’s iconic costume, even in the series finale. He wanted to preserve Clark’s identity separate from Superman’s. This perspective gave ‘Smallville’ a different approach to Clark’s journey.
However, as Welling recounted, the original script had a more direct transition to Superman. “One of the final scenes showed Clark seeing the suit, putting it on, and even donning the iconic boots,” he said. This version would have showcased Superman fully dressed and ready to soar.
Related: Tom Welling Reflects On Clark Kent’s Controversial Fate In Arrowverse’s ‘Crisis On Infinite Earths’
Instead, Welling and the creative team opted for a subtle nod to Superman’s legacy without showing him fully suited. He credited the decision partly to the series 24, which ended with a satellite shot that allowed viewers to imagine Jack Bauer continuing his mission.
Welling drew from that approach, suggesting a vision where Clark’s journey was left to the viewer’s imagination. “It lets fans believe he’s out there, still fighting for good,” he shared. The finale concluded with Clark tearing open his shirt to reveal the iconic “S” symbol.
The Unconventional Superman Suit In The ‘Smallville’ Finale Was To Keep Clark And Superman’s Identities Distinct
For that final scene, Tom Welling admitted that his costume was far from the full Superman suit fans might expect. Instead of the famous blue-and-red attire, he wore a makeshift costume that barely went beyond the chest emblem.
Welling explained that the wardrobe department crafted a “crop top with no sleeves,” as the scene only required the iconic “S” symbol peeking through his shirt. This simple costume cut costs and fit Welling’s own desire to avoid a full-body suit. “If I’d gone any further, you’d have seen my belly button,” Welling laughed.
In case you missed it: ‘Smallville’s Tom Welling Talks About A Batman Cameo In The Show
At the time, this arrangement suited Welling well, aligning with his goal to keep Clark and Superman as distinct identities. However, now, reflecting on his ‘Smallville’ days, he has reconsidered his aversion to the suit. “I wouldn’t mind wearing Superman’s costume on screen now,” he shared.
With the DC Universe pivoting to new storylines and characters, the chance for Welling’s Superman debut may be slim. Moreover, by letting the audience imagine Clark’s ongoing adventures, the finale preserved the character’s essence in a unique, lasting way.
