2001 TV News Archives

Cynthia Ettinger

October 2, 2001: "Smallville" - What happened to Cynthia Ettinger?

While fans have rejoiced over the casting of Annette O'Toole in the role of Martha Kent for Smallville, many have wondered what happened to Smallville's original Martha Kent... Cynthia Ettinger.

After shooting the pilot episode of Smallville, Warner Bros. soon announced that Cynthia Ettinger was being replaced by Annette O'Toole, who many fans will remember starred alongside Christopher Reeve in Superman III as Lana Lang. It was later revealed that Annette O'Toole would even be re-shooting the "Martha Kent" scenes in the pilot episode originally done by Cynthia Ettinger.

I've seen the pilot episode with Cynthia Ettinger as Martha Kent, and she was good! I haven't seen the Annette O'Toole version yet, so I can't give a comparison between the two female actors.

So, why the change?

Well the Superman Homepage caught up with Cynthia Ettinger and asked her that very question...

"They told me I was too young," says Cynthia.

"I had a lot of conflicting directions on the show and although I loved the story line, the people and the character... they just did not know how to use me or what to do with the character. I am too young to have him as my child and everyone seemed to be worried about that from the word Go."

"I was disappointed that I was replaced. However I think Annette O'Toole is a great actress and I think she will be perfect."

So what has Cynthia moved on to since departing Smallville?

"I am thrilled with what I am doing now... I am back at home in Hollywood working on two plays, one that is being directed by Tim Robbins."

And her expectations for Smallville?

"I think the show will be wonderful, the people are lovely and I wish them well."



2001 Television News

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