Michael Rosenbaum is known for a variety of different film and television projects ranging from URBAN LEGEND to JUSTICE LEAGUE UNLIMITED. However the brilliant actor is most frequently associated with the Superman origin series SMALLVILLE, where he played the hero’s future arch-nemesis Lex Luthor for seven years before leaving to pursue other projects. Rosenbaum did however make a fan-pleasing return in the shows final episode that aired in May 2011 after it finished its decade long run.
Whilst promoting his feature length directorial debut BACK IN THE DAY, Rosenbaum was asked whether he would consider reprising his role as Lex Luthor in the upcoming BATMAN VS SUPERMAN if Warner Bros. were to call him. You can read his response below:
‘The fans have been unbelievable. They’ve tweeted me, I’ve tweeted back…I’ve been to conventions and they always ask me, “Would you do it?” And I’m not an idiot, of course I’d do it. I’d love to do it. But I think Joaquin Phoenix is probably gonna do it or somebody. I’m a big Zack Snyder fan. Obviously, I think I could play the role. I would do it in a heartbeat, but I don’t hold my breath because I know there’s the stigma, “He was the TV Smallville Lex Luthor.” I say that sarcastically, but I think it’s a shame. If people like the role and what I did with it, then they should consider it. But I’m not the director. I’m not the producer. Long story short, I’d do it in a fucking heartbeat’.
I think it’s safe to say that’s a big fat yes from Michael Rosenbaum then…
As a huge fan of SMALLVILLE I think Warner Bros. should absolutely consider him for the part at the very least and it’s great to see that the actor is so enthusiastic about the idea. Although I am very aware the show had its problems, Rosenbaum was by the far the highlight of the series and it was most certainly lacking after his exit. Rosenbaum’s portrayal of Lex Luthor is regarded among comic fans as the best aspect of SMALLVILLE and one of the best interpretations of the character. It would be fantastic to see the actor bring his unique charm and equally menacing take on Luthor to the big screen opposite Henry Cavill and Ben Affleck. Unfortunately Rosenbaum may be correct however and Warner Bros may not want cross-pollinate their different Superman franchises at the risk of confusing audiences.
Bryan Cranston and Joaquin Phoenix have been heavily rumoured for the part but with the disappointing news of the films’ delay until 2016, it may be some time before we find out who will play Lex Luthor. We can only hope that Warner Bros. and DC Entertainment give Rosenbaum a chance, after all Zack Snyder has stated he is a fan of SMALLVILLE in the past.
Source: Media Mikes
