Superman: All 10 Clark Kent actors ranked from worst to best
1. Tyler Hoechlin
Appeared in: Supergirl, Superman and Lois
From the moment that Supergirl‘s Clark Kent first stumbled over his words on a phone call with Perry White, it was clear that Tyler Hoechlin was born to play this role. He was timid – almost apologetic – in his approach, absolutely nailing the qualities that Clark is known for right out of the gate. We often talk about how his first triumphant scene as Superman highlighted how perfect he was for the part (and it’s true), but we shouldn’t overlook how he produced a ridiculously comic-accurate Clark Kent in just a few short seconds. From there, the sky was the limit.
The only criticism of the Supergirl iteration of the character was that he didn’t appear enough, because Hoechlin lit up the screen every time he was on it. He leaned into his dorkiness, embracing Clark’s awkward nature without ever allowing him to become a caricature. It really worked, especially in a show like Supergirl that owned its light-hearted tone.
That was the more traditional Clark, but Hoechlin is also a master of a more layered version of the character too. The version that he plays on Superman and Lois is more nuanced, thanks in no small part to the show’s more mature and cinematic approach. This Clark is a hero, yes, but he’s also a husband, a father, and a son; responsibilities which he takes very seriously, as the Kents move back to Smallville to start a new life in the town that created the Clark Kent identity.
The performance that Hoechlin delivers on Superman and Lois is nothing short of stunning. He’s a leading man through and through, but he’s also added more depth to a character that many often write off, showcasing the universe that exists behind those glasses, highlighting that Clark Kent isn’t just a persona, he’s who Superman really is. He captures the essence of the character beautifully, offering up something new and modern without ever losing what makes Clark, well, Clark.
Tyler Hoechlin is one of the best actors to ever play Superman, but he is without question the very best at playing Clark Kent.
Next. All 13 Batman actors ranked from worst to best. dark
Which version of Clark Kent is your favorite? Do you have a favorite Superman adaptation?