Since 1938, Superman has been a pop culture icon - the blueprint for every superhero to follow. But the character's legacy doesn't rest solely on comic panels or Kryptonite; it's also in the many faces who've donned the red cape on screen. From black-and-white TV to modern blockbusters, Superman has been interpreted in numerous ways - wholesome, brooding, noble, and even conflicted.

So who did it best? Let's fly through history and revisit nine actors who have played Superman, from top to bottom, while taking note of their legacy and cultural impact.

Appearances in Superman: The Movie (1978), Superman II (1980), Superman III (1983), Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (1987)

Legacy:
Often regarded as the definitive Superman. Reeve balanced Clark Kent's nerdy charm with Superman's gravitas, making the impossible feel real. Even after decades, he remains the fan favourite for the most iconic portrayal of Superman.

Impact:
Critics and fans alike still hold Reeve's performance in the highest regard. Despite the later films' flaws, Reeve remained a shining constant.

Appearances in Man of Steel (2013), Batman v Superman (2016), Justice League (2017/2021)

Legacy:
Cavill's Superman was darker, more conflicted, molded by Zack Snyder's gritty vision. Physically imposing and stoic, he brought gravitas and intensity to the role.

Impact:
Divisive among fans. Critics praised his screen presence but criticised the somber tone of the narrative. Despite the mixed reception, Cavill has a passionate fanbase campaigning for his return.

Appearances in Superman (2025, directed by James Gunn)

Legacy:
In the film that is doing well at the box office, David Corenswet embodies duality well - a Superman still forming, still very much human, and a Clark Kent still fumbling through daily life. He brings earnestness to both personas without making either feel like a caricature.

Impact:
Corenswet has big boots to fill, but responsibility lies on Gunn for a course correction. He is only just getting started. This film doesn't aim to be the best Superman movie ever made. It's here to be the first chapter in something new. And for that, it succeeds.

Appearances in Supergirl (CW), Superman & Lois (TV series)

Legacy:
Hoechlin brings a grounded, family-man approach - balancing superhero duties with raising teens.

Impact:
Widely appreciated by fans of the Arrowverse. Seen as one of the better portrayals in modern TV.

Appearances in Smallville (TV)

Legacy:
Welling played a young Clark Kent before he became Superman. Over 10 seasons, fans watched him grow from awkward teen to hero-in-the-making.

Impact:
While Welling never wore the full suit until the final episode, his journey is still a favourite for many. Welling also earned the nod from Reeve, who made appearances in two episodes of the series.

Appearances in Superman and the Mole Men (1951), Adventures of Superman (TV series, 1952–1958)

Legacy:
For many, Reeves was Superman - the idealistic, do-gooder hero of post-war America. His calm, confident demeanour defined the character for a generation. According to reports, he even gave up cigarettes in real life so children wouldn't see Superman smoking.

Impact:
The original TV Superman. Old-fashioned, but legendary in his time, however, limited by early TV constraints.

Appearances in Superman (1948 serial), Atom Man vs. Superman (1950 serial)

Legacy:
The first actor to bring Superman to life on screen. Though the budget was low and special-effects cheesy by today's standards, Alyn's performance paved the way for future portrayals.

Impact:
Nostalgic, but largely forgotten outside die-hard fandom. Revered more for what he started than how he played it.

Appearances in Superman Returns (2006), Crisis on Infinite Earths (CW crossover, 2019)

Legacy:
Cast due to his resemblance to Christopher Reeve, Routh played a spiritual successor. The film was divisive and tanked at the box office, but his performance was praised for its sincerity.

Impact:
While the film failed at the box office, Routh earned respect among fans, especially with his emotional return in the Crisis TV event.

Appearances in Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman (TV)

Legacy:
Cain's take focused more on the romance and human side of Clark than the super hero side. It was a different approach, and the chemistry with Teri Hatcher (Lois Lane) drew solid ratings.

Impact:
Popular in the '90s, but less remembered now. Critics saw it as“Superman meets soap opera.”

Every Superman has reflected his time - from Reeve's idealism to Cavill's introspection, from Welling's youth to Corenswet's rebooted optimism. But in the hearts of most fans, Christopher Reeve still flies highest. He remains the standard-universally loved, iconic, and still celebrated nearly 50 years on. Cavill divided fans but impressed many with his presence in a modern interpretation. And with Corenswet's promising debut, however, the cape may soon pass into new, worthy hands.

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