This past weekend, “Smallville” stars Michael Rosenbaum, John Schneider, Tom Welling and Erica Durance participated in a Q&A panel at Comic Con Revolution.
Thanks to Superman Homepage reporter Luis Jaime, who attended the convention for us, we have the entire 50 minute “Smallville” panel for you to watch.
The panel offered a deep dive into the making of the show, the cast’s experiences, and the lasting legacy of “Smallville”.
The conversation quickly turned to the cast’s popular rewatch podcast, “Talk Ville,” which is approaching its three-year mark. Michael Rosenbaum initiated the idea, suggesting that people would enjoy a podcast about the show, especially since he hadn’t seen most episodes. Tom Welling, who felt removed from the show after its long run, felt it was the right time. They noted having a “turn-key” production team and enjoy having guests on the show.
However, the cast openly discussed how the demanding production schedule impacted their memory of specific episodes. Filming for 10 months a year, often seven days a week (five shooting days followed by two the next week before starting a new “show”), and utilizing block shooting (filming all scenes for a location like the barn or Kent Farm at once, regardless of where they fell in the episode’s timeline) meant they had little concept of continuity or when one episode ended and another began. Tom Welling noted that you often see the final, edited show for the first time when it airs. Remembering specifics can be hard when many scenes run together on the same sets. Instead, they tend to remember generalities or favorite locations.
When asked about their favorite episodes, the cast offered varied answers:
– Erica Durance liked moments or parts of the show rather than a single episode, specifically mentioning the scene where Lois finally told “the Blur” she knew who he was, and a moment where she ran across a room to knock Clark over, which he actually did.
– Tom Welling vividly remembered the episode “Transfer,” finding it challenging and exciting, feeling like they were “really doing something”. He also cited the very first episode, the pilot, as a favorite because seeing it made him feel like he was finally on a “good show,” describing it as emotional and “quality stuff”.
– John Schneider felt the 100th episode (“Reckoning”) was “one of the best television ever”. He also enjoyed “Nicodemus,” where he got to play Jonathan Kent being “mad and angry” and driving like “the Duke” (referencing his “Dukes of Hazzard” past). He also highlighted the Season 5 storyline where Jonathan runs for Senate as a favorite because it tied in relationships and Lionel Luthor’s influence.
– Michael Rosenbaum enjoyed fun episodes like “Onyx” (where Lex splits in two) but ultimately found the pilot the most impactful, seeing how it all started.
The discussion moved to what they liked or disliked about their characters:
– Michael Rosenbaum said he hated what Lex did to Lana, feeling it wasn’t necessary, referencing the lie about being pregnant.
– John Schneider stated he didn’t dislike anything about Jonathan Kent. He spoke movingly about moments showing a father’s love for his son, even pushing the stronger Clark out of the way of danger in the Nixon episode or turning him around in the episode Jonathan died so Clark wouldn’t see Lana’s death. He called these moments instances of “the power of love,” regardless of whether it was written with that intention.
– Tom Welling loved doing stunt days and the challenge of showing the weight of objects like hay bales, sharing that knowledge with others.
– Erica Durance noted that sometimes you intrinsically know things about your character that you only realize when someone else plays them or asks questions. She mentioned learning how she liked to work on set and now asks others this question, which helps communication.
The cast also revealed some fun details, including what props or costumes they kept from the set. Michael Rosenbaum kept numerous items including the Zod jacket, suits, a jumpsuit, countless props, paintings, and glasses. Tom Welling took the back of his chair and his nameplate, while John Schneider kept a knife from an episode he directed.
Favorite moments often revolved around the camaraderie on set and the relationships. Tom Welling mentioned the line about their friendship being “the stuff of legend”. John Schneider emphasized the importance of their great relationships off-camera, feeling it shows on screen. Erica Durance recalled working with John when she was shy. Tom Welling felt like the actors were always teammates who made scenes better. Erica enjoyed the banter and moments of foreshadowing where they sprinkled in hints of what the characters would become.
Food was also a memorable part of the set experience. Thanksgiving sandwiches with cranberry sauce and stuffing were a particular favorite, as were the end-of-day candy and cheese trays, which were used to keep the cast happy.
A question about the upcoming James Gunn “Superman” movie prompted a strong response from John Schneider, who stated unequivocally that “there would be no Superman without Smallville,” claiming “Smallville” was the first thing that worked “a million precent” in the DC universe. Michael Rosenbaum, a close friend of James Gunn, expressed excitement for the film and praised Nicholas Hoult, who will play Lex.
A touching moment occurred when a fan thanked Erica Durance specifically for being a motivating character who helped her overcome shyness and accomplish things in her life.
Reflecting on behind-the-scenes personnel, the cast highlighted the integral role of the crew. Michael Rosenbaum fondly remembered Russ, who operated the smoke machine. John Schneider paid tribute to the stunt performers, calling them wonderful people who risk their lives and celebrating the Academy finally recognizing them. Erica Durance expressed gratitude for the hair, makeup, and wardrobe people who were incredibly supportive, patient, and recognized the actors’ humanity.
Favorite “eras” or seasons of the show were also discussed:
– Michael Rosenbaum liked Season 6.
– John Schneider preferred when the show became “more adult,” citing Season 5 and 6 as great.
– Erica Durance leaned towards Season 6 or seasons heading towards Metropolis, feeling people were ready to see that.
The cast expressed gratitude for the lasting legacy of the show and how it has inspired multiple generations, including a story of it being watched by soldiers on DVD in Baghdad.
When asked about least favorite episodes, the “wax dolls” episode (“Redux”) was mentioned as tricky and horrible. However, John Schneider felt that overall, the stories were well-done. Michael Rosenbaum referenced the “Rosenbaum rating” system used on his podcast for evaluating episodes.
Other notable guest stars mentioned included Phil Morris (Martian Manhunter), who brought so much to the role, and the legendary actor Rutger Hauer, who was momentarily overwhelmed by the fast pace of TV production compared to his usual process. Christopher Reeve was also mentioned, with Tom Welling sharing that they filmed those scenes in Westchester County, New York, where Christopher Reeve was from. Favorite antagonists included Lionel Luther, Lillian Luther, and Cassie.
On the question of which character they would switch places with, the consensus leaned towards Lionel Luther, seeing it as potentially the most fun due to the character’s complexity and the “what if” scenarios of him finding young Clark.
Playing “Red Kryptonite” Clark was a highlight for Tom Welling, who saw that version of the character as not evil, but simply having no concern for consequences. He focused on incorporating a few of John Schneider’s mannerisms when playing Red K Clark acting like Jonathan. The other actors were “amazed” seeing Tom embody the different, sometimes “a$$hole” version of Clark.
The show’s music was also praised, with the theme song still rocking and the use of various artists drawing comparisons to “Miami Vice”.
A long-standing question for fans, whether Tom Welling would ever don the full Superman suit, was asked. Tom responded honestly, saying “I don’t know,” not wanting to promise something he couldn’t deliver.
Fun memories like the “Krypto” episode (and learning dogs aren’t fed before filming to maintain attention) and favorite stunts (jumping into an 18-wheeler, slowing the school bus in episode 100) were also shared.
The panel concluded with cast members reflecting on the lessons and moral dilemmas from the show, such as belief in yourself, never judging others, being designed for a purpose, and letting loved ones share their story. They also shared what they would tell their 10-year-old selves: dream bigger, be kinder to yourself, and make your day great.
The panel was a clear reminder of Smallville‘s enduring impact and the genuine connection between the cast, who continue to appreciate the show and its dedicated fanbase.
