Superman: All 11 Lex Luthor actors ranked from worst to best

2. Gene Hackman (Superman, Superman II & Superman IV)

When it comes to iconic superhero performances, Gene Hackman’s turn as Lex Luthor is often at the top of many lists. His performance as Lex is often regarded as one of the most iconic and legendary performances in the genre.

Hackman’s Luthor was somewhat of a departure from the comic book Lex we knew at the time. Through his performance, Hackman gave us a Lex who was a smooth-talking, charismatic villain with a quick wit and devious mind. That wit, in particular, was key to making his Lex the incredible standout character he was.

He had this ability to inject humor into the character in a way that never diminished the threat he posed both to the Man of Steel and to the people of Metropolis. His performance was further elevated in those he played off of including Ned Beatty, who played Lex’s henchman Otis. The pair had a magnetic way of playing off one another that delivered some incredible moments.

This was a Lex that also had a clear motivation. He wanted nothing more in life than to bring Superman down, with that deep sense of resentment toward the Man of Steel driving his actions. To Lex, Superman was a threat to his ambitions that had to be stopped no matter the cost.

Hackman was brilliant as Lex; however, there is one actor whose performance stands above all others.