Top 10 Superman Actors: From David Corensweat to Christopher Reeve

A number of individuals have moved quicker than a speeding bullet and vaulted high structures in one leap. However, among all the performers who have worn Superman His cape, who is the most super?

Is it Christopher Reeve , the beloved star Who convinced everyone that a person could fly? featuring John Williams' iconic melody? Could it be Henry Cavill, who brought a graver demeanor to Superman in Zack Snyder's DC cinematic universe? Perhaps it's one of television’s portrayals of the Man of Tomorrow, such as Dean Cain or Tom Welling? Or maybe it refers to the newest actor wearing the cape and cowl? David Corenswet , leading actress in James Gunn's latest film "Superman" (in theaters July 11)?

To honor the next individual in the red swimwear, we’re listing all live-action movies and TV series featuring Superman who impacted popular culture with his heat vision. (Apologies to fans of Nicolas Cage’s digitally created appearance in "The Flash." Additionally, we will focus solely on Super) men Here, omitting "Superboy" actors John Haymes Newton and Gerard Christopher.

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9. Kirk Alyn

Being the first actor to portray Superman, Kirk Alyn was not necessarily the most physically imposing hero, yet he certainly infused the character with an authentic sense of kindness in the 1948 movie serial "Superman" and its follow-up "Atom Man vs. Superman," released two years later. His connection to DC Comics was strong; he also starred as the lead in the "Blackhawk" series during the 1950s and made a brief appearance as Lois Lane's father in the 1978 "Superman" film.

8. Brandon Routh

Brandon Routh embodied the character well and showed promise of becoming one of the greatest portrayals yet, however, Bryan Singer's 2006 film "Superman Returns" turned out to be an average film that didn't meet the expectations set by the studio. While this was only a single appearance for Routh, he later showcased his superpowers more fully as the Atom in CW's "Legends of Tomorrow" television series and once again donned Superman's costume during a 2019 Arrowverse special.

7. Dean Cain

In four seasons of ABC's 'Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman' from the 1990s, Dean Cain portrayed a good-hearted character who leaned more toward melodrama than heroism. With Cain and Teri Hatcher playing as Lois Lane, the show offered a fresh romantic comedy take on the Superman legend, although it certainly had its silly moments. Nonetheless, it brought many exciting elements of DC comics to a wider audience, with Cain effectively balancing his charming superhero persona against his awkward civilian identity.

6. Henry Cavill

A different example of an otherwise great Superhero being let down by his film portrayals: In Zack Snyder's 2013 movie "Man of Steel" and the 2016 release "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice," Cavill’s version of the hero wasn’t particularly upbeat or cheerful—he came across as contemplative, gloomy, and often very serious. (Should we bring up the time he broke an enemy's neck?) It wasn't until 2017's "Justice League" that Cavill began to truly show something else. a Superman deserving of John Williams' melody a Superman matching the grandeur of John Williams' composition a Superman befitting John Williams' iconic score a Superman that lives up to John Williams' musical legacy a Superman who embodies the spirit of John Williams' theme only to later receive a termination notice due to a DC Universe overhaul.

5. Tyler Hoechlin

Many people overlooked Hoechlin's performance as the comic book character, initially appearing in a few roles on CW's "Supergirl" beginning in 2016 and making minor appearances within the Arrowverse prior to leading the show for four seasons on "Superman & Lois" (2021–2024). Hoechlin has proven himself among the top actors who have captured Superman’s emotional arc, effectively juggling various aspects of the part—specifically, the determined hero and the affectionate, likable father figure.

4. Tom Welling

Spending 10 seasons overseeing a television series means you're likely achieving success. No actor remained as long portraying Clark Kent as Tom Welling from WB's "Smallville," who developed a remarkable storyline for the character. Starting with the troubled teenager living on a Kansas farm who becomes part of the high school football squad, all the way through taking up an adult position at the Daily Planet, Welling delivered steady performances illustrating how a future Superman discovers his ability to soar, both literally and metaphorically.

3. David Corenswet

From the very beginning of the new "Superman" film, it's clear that David Corenswet fully embodies the character, down to his essence. He saves kids From chaos driven by monsters and destruction of property. He takes chances with international conflicts to rescue those who require his help. He puts an end to all threats. to search for his missing dog The Man of Steel, when executed properly, embodies compassion and understanding, and Corenswet meets these criteria while also bringing in some wit and a touch of intensity.

2. George Reeves

Similar to how Adam West shaped the image of Batman years later, George Reeves established the portrayal of Superman for many generations — and introduced the character to the general public more than ever before — through the 1950s series "Adventures of Superman." Playing both the unassuming Clark Kent and his mighty counterpart, who frequently rescued his friends Lois Lane and Jimmy Olsen, Reeves gave the role charm, sincerity, and a commanding presence that transformed his career.

1. Christopher Reeve

The top performer, without question. The initial two Superman films starring Christopher Reeve highlighted an exceptional actor who added depth to the superhero genre and masterfully portrayed the character: this extraterrestrial from Krypton was nurtured to embody our finest qualities, accepting human nature and experiencing romance. A particular moment from his debut film in 1978 demonstrates just how remarkable he was: with merely a change in body language and behavior along with removing his glasses, he smoothly transitions between his Clark Kent identity and the iconic Big Blue Boy Scout. As the definitive Superman, he remains the standard others clad in that cape and "S" emblem strive to equal, always and forever.

This piece was first published on USA TODAY: All actors who have portrayed Superman, listed from David Corenswet to Christopher Reeve