Lex Luthor does not die in Smallville. While he disappears from the show after the season 7 finale, “Arctic,” he returns in the series finale, “Finale Part 1 & 2,” having had his memory erased.
The Enigma of Lex Luthor: A Smallville Saga
Lex Luthor, portrayed with chilling brilliance by Michael Rosenbaum, remains one of the most iconic villains in television history. His complex relationship with Clark Kent, fueled by jealousy, ambition, and a tragic past, formed the emotional core of Smallville for seven seasons. The question of his demise, or lack thereof, has plagued fans for years, leading to extensive speculation and debate. Understanding Lex’s trajectory requires careful examination of key plot points and thematic elements.
Season 7: Disappearance, Not Death
The common misconception about Lex Luthor’s “death” arises from his disappearance in the season 7 finale, “Arctic.” After a confrontation with Clark Kent at the Fortress of Solitude, Lex triggers a failsafe that causes the Fortress to crumble. While Clark survives, Lex is presumed dead, and the show provides no visual confirmation of his fate. This ambiguity fueled speculation and set the stage for his eventual return.
Season 10: The Grand Finale
The series finale, “Finale Part 1 & 2,” delivers Lex’s triumphant return. He is found alive, albeit with his memory completely erased. Lionel Luthor (played by John Glover in a parallel universe incarnation brought about by Darkseid) had revived Lex and implemented a process to wipe his memories, aiming to guide him towards a righteous path. However, Lex ultimately regains his memories, solidifying his destiny as Superman’s nemesis.
Thematic Significance: The Inevitability of Destiny
Lex Luthor’s story in Smallville is a powerful exploration of destiny versus free will. Despite numerous opportunities to choose a different path, Lex consistently succumbs to his darker impulses. The revival and memory wipe, orchestrated by Lionel, represent a last-ditch effort to rewrite Lex’s fate. Ultimately, however, Lex’s inherent nature prevails, reinforcing the idea that his rivalry with Superman is an inescapable part of their respective destinies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Lex Luthor’s journey in Smallville, providing further clarity and context:
1. Why did Michael Rosenbaum leave Smallville after Season 7?
Michael Rosenbaum’s departure was primarily due to contract negotiations and a desire to explore other acting opportunities. He had initially signed a seven-season contract, and while the producers were eager to keep him, they were unable to reach an agreement that satisfied Rosenbaum’s needs and aspirations.
2. How was Lex Luthor brought back for the series finale?
Rosenbaum agreed to return for the finale only after assurances that Lex’s story would be handled with respect and that it would be a significant and meaningful conclusion to his arc. The producers crafted a story that allowed Lex to return, addressing his absence and solidifying his villainous future.
3. What was the purpose of erasing Lex’s memory?
Lionel Luthor, through his intervention from a parallel universe, aimed to erase Lex’s memories and reshape him into a force for good. He believed that by removing the corrupting influences of Lex’s past, he could prevent him from becoming the villain he was destined to be.
4. Why did Lex regain his memories in the finale?
Lex’s memories return when he encounters a synthetic form of brain fluid, a derivative of the genetic material of Alexander Luthor (Lex’s clone, introduced earlier in the series). This triggers a restoration of his past experiences and reinforces his established identity.
5. Did Clark know Lex was alive after Season 7?
No, Clark believed Lex was dead after the collapse of the Fortress of Solitude. He was unaware of Lionel Luthor’s intervention and Lex’s subsequent revival and memory erasure.
6. How did Lionel Luthor from a parallel universe revive Lex?
The exact method of revival is not explicitly detailed on screen, but it is implied that Lionel Luthor utilized advanced technology and genetic engineering techniques available in his parallel universe to bring Lex back to life. The presence of Darkseid in the season indicates an element of supernatural or metaphysical influence as well.
7. What was the significance of Lex regaining his memories in relation to Superman’s emergence?
Lex regaining his memories is intrinsically linked to Superman’s emergence. It represents the inevitable collision of their destinies. As Lex embraces his villainous identity, it forces Clark to fully embrace his role as Superman, symbolizing the perpetual struggle between good and evil.
8. How does Lex Luthor’s character in Smallville differ from his portrayal in the comics?
Smallville provided a nuanced and complex origin story for Lex Luthor. The series delved into his traumatic childhood, his complex relationship with his father, and the early signs of his ambition and paranoia. While the core aspects of the character remain consistent with the comics, Smallville offered a more empathetic and psychologically driven portrayal.
9. What were the key factors that contributed to Lex’s descent into villainy in Smallville?
Several factors contributed to Lex’s descent, including: his abusive relationship with his father, Lionel; his unwavering belief in his own superiority; his jealousy and resentment towards Clark’s abilities; and his exposure to kryptonite. These elements collectively shaped his worldview and fueled his desire for power.
10. What impact did Clark Kent have on Lex Luthor’s life in Smallville?
Initially, Clark was Lex’s closest friend, a beacon of hope and goodness. However, Lex’s obsession with Clark’s secrets and his growing paranoia gradually eroded their friendship. Clark’s presence ultimately served as a constant reminder of Lex’s own limitations and fueled his ambition to surpass him.
11. Did Lex ever show genuine remorse or regret in Smallville?
There were moments throughout the series where Lex displayed glimmers of remorse, particularly in the earlier seasons. He occasionally questioned his actions and expressed a desire for a different life. However, these moments were fleeting, ultimately overshadowed by his ambition and paranoia.
12. What is the legacy of Lex Luthor in Smallville?
Lex Luthor’s portrayal in Smallville is widely regarded as one of the best interpretations of the character. Michael Rosenbaum’s performance earned critical acclaim and solidified Lex’s status as an iconic villain. The series explored the complex origins of Lex’s villainy, providing a deeper understanding of his motivations and ultimately shaping the modern perception of the character. His complex relationship with Clark, full of broken promises and growing resentment, remains a cornerstone of the Smallville legacy.