Smallville (2001-2011)

Sharing a similar approach as Superboy, Smallville centers on Clark Kent’s (Tom Welling) younger years, following him through high school all the way into his days working alongside Lois Lane at the Daily Planet. Along with Lana Lang (Kristin Kreuk) and Lex Luthor (Michael Rosenbaum), the show introduced Lois’s cousin Chloe Sullivan (Allison Mack), a fan-favorite character that has since been introduced in the comics as well. Over its ten seasons, Smallville spun a complex tale of self-discovery, as Clark learns of the true depth of his power and finds his way towards his destiny as Earth’s protector. The show may have lost some of its impact in its last few seasons — in part due to Rosenbaum’s exit — but overall, it was a thrilling look at the unexplored years of Superman’s life and the trials he had to endure on his way to earning the red cape and his famous moniker.

What’s your favorite television series about the Man of Steel? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.