Though Supergirl tells the story of Kara Zor-El first and foremost, it’s pretty much impossible to avoid certain hallmarks of the DC Universe due to her being the cousin of Superman. As such, Tyler Hoechlin has already shown up as Big Blue on several occasions – and will return this fall for the “Elseworlds” crossover – not to mention other vital characters such as James Olsen and Cat Grant putting in appearances.
Fortunately, what had arguably been the biggest piece missing from the puzzle was found earlier this month, with Two and a Half Men‘s Jon Cryer being officially cast as Lex Luthor. As was to be expected, this decision has generated its share of controversy, though recurring series director Kevin Smith says we have nothing to fear because this take on one of DC’s greatest villains will be quite dark.
Naturally, fans have been wondering what other men to have played Lex in the past thought of the news, with Smallville alum Michael Rosenbaum being among the first to lend his support. In a Tweet seen below, he encourages Cryer to “kill it” in a show of a class.
Best of luck @MrJonCryer – Kill it pal. #LexLuthor #Supergirl
Confusing to the average viewer as it would’ve been, a vocal faction had been trying to get Rosenbaum to reprise the role on Supergirl, but it wouldn’t have made much sense with Hoechlin suiting up instead of Tom Welling. In fact, I’d been leading the bandwagon consisting of folks placing their support for Welling to embody Superman’s polar opposite – especially after he fanned the flames at Motor City Comic Con back in May by saying he’d like to play Lex – but those dreams have been put on the back burner for the time being.
Like some of you, I questioned the decision to cast Cryer, but I’m not putting it past the guy to deliver a chilling performance. Putting my mind at ease were Kevin Smith’s aforementioned comments, so all we can really do is wait and hope for the best.
Supergirl airs on Sunday nights on The CW.