Superman is one of the most iconic characters in comic books, movies, and entertainment in general. Over the decades since his appearance in the comic books (Action Comics #1) in 1938, Superman has become part of western culture (at least U.S. culture). Over the years, he has also appeared in a large number of TV shows and feature films, not to mention all kinds of animated shows and movies. Considering his first appearance on screen was in 1948, you can imagine that there have been more than a few actors to put on the cape - 10 in fact. That makes it perfect for a ranking of the top 10 actors to play Superman on screen.
10 - Kirk Alyn (Superman serial in 1948, Atom Man vs Superman in 1950)
He is the first on-screen Superman and that is worth something. But, he also doesn’t quite compare to the other actors who came later.
9 - John Haymes Newton (Superboy series, 1988-89)
His portrayal of a younger Superman didn’t exactly blow people away and he was later replaced in the series. However, he should get some props for being the first to try to make the Clark Kent character a bit more assertive.
8 - Gerard Christopher (Superboy series, 1989-92)
Christopher stepped into Newton’s boots in the second season of the series and managed to keep it rolling for a few more years. But, once again, he just doesn’t nail the role.
7 - Dean Cain (Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, 1993-97)
This was an obvious step up from several previous TV iterations, but when compared to a couple of the iconic actors to put the Superman S on their chests, he falls short. Almost, but not quite middle of the pack.
6 - Brandon Routh (Superman Returns - 2006)
Routh was OK as Superman in his one turn in the role in 2006. But, the movie didn’t take off and that was it for his run. He did actually get to reprise the role briefly in the TV series Green Arrow, but he is mainly remembered for Superman Returns (a bullet in the eye!) and it brings him in around the middle of the Supermen.
5 - Tyler Hoechin (Superman & Lois series, 2021-present)
Hoechin is the most recent actor to put on the blue-and-red suit, in the ongoing series Superman & Lois. He first took on the role in episodes of Supergirl, The Flash, DC’s Legends of Tomorrow, and Arrow. He does deliver a solid presence as Superman trying to balance his life as… well THE Superman, with also being a husband and father. It’s a rock-solid performance so far. As the series continues, he might move up on this list.
4 - Tom Welling (Smallville series, 2001-11)
It’s interesting that Welling actually likes to point out that he didn’t play Superman, but rather Clark Kent in the series. That’s actually very accurate since the show is about how Clark took on the mantle of Superman. It’s a strong performance and you get a real Superman vibe from Welling.
3 - George Reeves (The Adventures of Superman series, 1952-58)
For a generation, Reeves was Superman. His show ran for 7 seasons and he played a more self-assured version of Clark Kent, along with his superhero identity. Set aside the production values of the time and a bit of the cheesiness and you can really appreciate that this was very close to what we consider to be the ideal Superman.
2 - Henry Cavill (Man of Steel - 2013, Batman vs Superman - 2016, Justice League - 2017)
Reeves and Cavill are close together on this list and could easily flip-flop. From a modern perspective, Cavill’s turn as the ultimate hero is already memorable. It might be even better if the scripts and films gave him just a bit more room to develop his own spin on the character. He does come across as a bit solemn. It’s understandable, given the subject matter of several of the movies where he has played the role. But, he does seem like someone who could crack a smile given the right circumstances. We can only hope he gets at least one more shot at really owning the role because, from a physical standpoint, he crushes it.
1 - Christopher Reeve (Superman: The Movie - 1978, Superman II - 1980, Superman III 1983, Superman IV - 1987)
An easy choice? Probably. And, I’m not sure he is actually my favorite Superman. I never liked how nerdy and weak Clark Kent comes off. But, once he puts on the Superman suit, well then you get it. His portrayal is spot on. He embodies everything Superman stands for and does it with equal amounts of gravitas and charm. So, taken all together, he takes the top spot on the list.
