The long-discussed Smallville Sequel Series finally received a fresh and promising update. During a recent convention, Michael Rosenbaum shared new details about the team’s progress on the DC revival and explained why the animated continuation remains delayed.
Michael Rosenbaum Shares New Smallville Sequel Series Update
At Comic Con Liverpool, Rosenbaum confirmed that the team has made significant progress. He confirmed that the early artwork is complete and that creators Al Gough and Miles Millar are fully involved.
Rosenbaum explained,
“We did some artwork and Al Gough and Miles Miller… they’re attached. And Tom Welling and I wanna do it, but it’s gotta be the right time, when you pitch.”
Because of this early progress, fans have renewed hope that the beloved series could soon return in animated form.
Development Continues, but the Smallville Sequel Series Needs Studio Approval
Despite the creative team’s enthusiasm, Rosenbaum emphasized that the revival cannot advance without studio approval. He noted,
“You have to make sure that the studio is wanting to do something like that right now.”
While the cast and creators are ready, the final decision rests with the studio. Rosenbaum reassured fans that the project is still “a work in progress” and suggested that familiar cast members could return if everything falls into place.
Smallville’s Animated Revival Has Been in Discussion for Years
The idea of a Smallville Sequel Series first surfaced in 2021, nearly a decade after the live-action series ended in 2011. The concept follows Tom Welling reprising Clark Kent in animated form, continuing his story from the original show.
This revival would let the creators explore new stories without the limits of live-action production, budgets, or physical constraints. Consequently, the animated format offers greater creative freedom, making it an ideal medium for a return.
Tom Welling Confirms Progress but Says DC Holds the Final Decision
In 2024, Tom Welling revealed that the team had already secured an artist and created a poster showing Lionel Luthor looming over the cast. However, none of this material can be shared publicly until DC gives official approval.
Welling said,
“We can’t do anything without DC saying we can do it, and they haven’t given us the green light, but we are ready.”
He also emphasized that Al and Miles, the original showrunners, are eager to write the continuation. Yet, because Smallville is DC’s property, the creators need authorization before moving forward. This perfectly aligns with Rosenbaum’s recent remarks, confirming that the team’s readiness is not the issue — only DC’s decision is.
Why Fans Are Still Hopeful About the Smallville Sequel Series
Even though official approval is still pending, fans remain hopeful as Tom Welling and Michael Rosenbaum consistently show enthusiasm for returning to their roles. Their involvement, along with the original showrunners, ensures creative continuity. Additionally, the rise of legacy revivals and animated projects makes the timing ideal, as studios increasingly favor established franchises with loyal fans.
Although the revival exists outside James Gunn’s DCU, it fits well within DC’s multiverse strategy, especially as animated projects gain popularity. The final decision rests with DC, but ongoing updates, early artwork, and the cast’s enthusiasm show the project is alive. Once approved, the Smallville Sequel Series could finally move forward into its long-awaited animated chapter.
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Ambily Sajan 
Shobith Chandran