Additional Coverage:
- Every actor who’s played Lex Luthor, ranked from worst to best, including Nicholas Hoult (businessinsider.com)
From Silver Screen to Animated Schemes: A Definitive Ranking of Lex Luthor Portrayals
Lex Luthor. Possibly the only human who can go toe-to-toe with Superman, not with superpowers, but with a potent cocktail of intellect, wealth, and an inexhaustible wellspring of resentment.
He’s a complex character, and bringing him to life onscreen presents a unique challenge. With the latest portrayal of Lex by Nicholas Hoult in the new “Superman” film, it feels like the perfect time to look back at the many faces of this iconic villain, ranking them from worst to best.
- Ike Barinholtz (The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part): A cameo appearance as a brainwashed, friendly Lex doesn’t offer much to work with. Here’s hoping Barinholtz gets another shot at the role!
- Lyle Talbot (Atom Man vs.
Superman): As the first onscreen Lex, Talbot’s portrayal predates the character’s modern development. While interesting for historical context, it doesn’t hold up against later interpretations.
- Titus Welliver (Titans): Welliver’s brief appearance hinted at a compelling Lex, but with limited screen time, it’s hard to place him any higher.
- Jesse Eisenberg (Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, Justice League): This controversial take on Lex, complete with delayed baldness, proved divisive. The manic energy and convoluted schemes didn’t resonate with many fans.
- Michael Cudlitz (Superman & Lois): Cudlitz’s Lex favored brawn over brains, a departure from the character’s usual cunning.
- Jon Cryer (Supergirl): While a fun meta-casting choice, Cryer’s comedic background didn’t lend itself to a truly intimidating Lex.
- Giancarlo Esposito/Lance Reddick/Wendell Pierce (Harley Quinn/Kite Man! Hell Yeah): While all three voice actors deliver excellent performances, Lex isn’t a central enough figure in this animated universe to rank higher.
- John Shea (Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman): Shea’s Lex introduced the concept of a romantic rivalry between Lex and Clark over Lois Lane. A suitably sinister performance, though limited to the show’s first season.
- Kevin Spacey (Superman Returns): While intended as a continuation of Gene Hackman’s Lex, Spacey’s portrayal had a distinct, more intense edge. Memorable scenes on the megayacht and with the model city showcase his captivating performance.
- Nicholas Hoult (Superman): Hoult’s Lex embodies pure, unadulterated hatred for Superman, perfectly fitting the film’s tone. He’s menacing, hands-on, and brings a fresh perspective to the character’s motivations.
- Gene Hackman (Superman, Superman II, Superman IV: The Quest for Peace): Hackman’s iconic portrayal remains a fan favorite, a perfect foil to Christopher Reeve’s Superman. While the performance becomes increasingly campy in later installments, his presence in the first two films is undeniable.
- Clancy Brown (DC Animated Universe): Brown’s voice acting delivers a consistently cool and calculating Lex. Intelligent, wealthy, and surrounded by sharks, this version is everything you want in a classic Luthor.
- Michael Rosenbaum (Smallville): With years of development, Rosenbaum’s Lex is the most fully realized version of the character.
We see his evolution from friend to foe, explore his complex relationship with his father, and witness the growth of his insatiable curiosity and intellectual insecurity. This nuanced portrayal earns him the top spot.
Read More About This Story:
- Every actor who’s played Lex Luthor, ranked from worst to best, including Nicholas Hoult (businessinsider.com)