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This summer, James Gunn’s Superman will soar onto the big screen, introducing the next generation to DC’s Man of Steel. However, over twenty years before David Corenswet was cast as Superman, Smallville was responsible for turning millions of viewers into Superman fans.

The WB drama chronicled Clark Kent’s teenage years as he struggled to get a grasp on his powers. The series was a ratings success and helped usher in a new era of superhero television. With Superman getting ready to hit theaters, one Smallville actor wants us to remember that it couldn’t have happened without their show paving the way.

“There would be no Superman without Smallville,” John Schneider says during a panel at Comic Con Revolution 2025. “There would be no DC Universe without Superman. I’m sorry, I don’t want people to forget. The first thing that ever worked a million percent in this entire world was Smallville, so we should be on their perpetual Christmas list.”

Schneider’s co-star Michael Rosenbaum also shared his thoughts on the upcoming film.

“James Gunn is a really close friend of mine, and he’s a really great director, and I know he put his heart into this, and he wants it to be great. He’s a very good friend of mine. I’m excited about it. Nicholas [Hoult] is a great guy, he’s playing Lex, and I wish them all the best. I’m going to see that. I think everybody should go see it.”

Superman hits theaters on July 11.