Smallville

The series follows a young Clark Kent in the years before he becomes Superman. Arriving in Smallville, Kansas, as an orphan, he grapples with his developing superpowers, his alien origins, and his place in the world. Alongside his friends Lana Lang and Chloe Sullivan, Clark navigates high school, romance, and the dangerous meteor-related threats that plague his hometown, all while trying to keep his extraordinary abilities a secret.

Smallville was a critical and commercial success, praised for its fresh take on Superman's origin story and its focus on character development. The show garnered a dedicated fanbase over its ten-season run, earning numerous awards and nominations, particularly for its portrayal of Clark Kent's journey into heroism.

• Praised for its compelling portrayal of a young, uncertain Superman and its dramatic exploration of adolescent themes.

• Appreciated for its serialized storytelling and its ability to evolve its characters over a long run.

• Criticized by some for leaning heavily on 'monster-of-the-week' plots in earlier seasons.

Google audience: Audience reviews frequently highlight the show's engaging storyline, strong character development for Clark Kent, and its satisfying evolution over the seasons. Many viewers enjoyed the series' unique approach to the Superman mythos, focusing on his formative years and the relationships that shaped him.

Primetime Emmy Awards (multiple nominations, 1 win for Outstanding Main Title Design), Teen Choice Awards (multiple wins), GLAAD Media Awards (multiple nominations).

The iconic red 'S' shield that Clark Kent eventually dons was first seen in the series finale, a deliberate choice by the creators to signify his full transformation into Superman.