Michael Rosenbaum Honors Gene Hackman: A Heartfelt Tribute to Lex Luthor’s Legacy

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The passing of led to an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from Hollywood’s various generations over the past week. One of the most recent honors comes from the actor who assumed a role made legendary by Hackman, as he stepped into it in the TV series Smallville. In this TV show, portrayed the villain Lex Luthor, decades after Hackman’s memorable portrayal of the character in Christopher Reeves’ Superman films. As a token of his respect, the actor posted an image of a signed poster, acknowledging Hackman as “the second-best Lex Luthor” in a heartfelt message.

Towards the close of last week, Hackman and his spouse were found at their residence. Although the ongoing investigation into their demise continues, the heartbreaking news has deeply affected numerous Hollywood celebrities and fans who admired Hackman’s extensive body of work. For Rosenbaum, this loss resonated on a personal level, and he tenderly echoed Hackman’s sentiments in his tribute penned on X. In the tribute, Rosenbaum expressed:

“To my favorite Lex Luthor and one of the all time greatest actors ever! RIP.”

A New Lex Luthor Is About to Rise in James Gunn’s ‘Superman’

Few would dispute that Hackman and Rosenbaum are considered top-notch portrayals of Superman’s main nemesis. Previous actors to take on the role include Kevin Spacey, alongside Brandon Routh in a less recognized Superman performance, as well as Jesse Eisenberg from Zack Snyder’s debated DC films. However, this summer introduces a fresh contender for the Luthor throne in the form of Nicholas Hoult, best known for his role in Nosferatu.

In the new development, Timothee Chalamet has been cast as Lex Luthor, facing off against David Corenswet’s Man of Steel in the inaugural live-action film of James Gunn and Peter Safran’s DC Universe. Trailers showcase him in the traditional bald look for the character, suggesting a rough portrayal of the villain following a less successful depiction by Eisenberg.

Previously, during a conversation about his upcoming part on the “Inside of You” podcast last year, Hoult shared that Rosenbaum’s portrayal of Luthor in Smallville was the first such character he had ever witnessed on-screen.

As a child, it appears that the very first Lex I encountered was you. And ever since Smallville, I’ve had the chance to watch Richard Donner’s Superman films as well as other portrayals. However, in my opinion, you stand out as the most memorable.

For his upcoming character, Luthor, Hoult has been tactful about its potential greatness in trailers. However, he hinted that the role could turn out to be something extraordinary, as he put it.

I believe it’s premature to discuss changes in my portrayal of Lex Luthor. Working with James Gunn was truly enjoyable; I find him to be an exceptional director with a deep understanding of the world, story, and characters. I trust his vision. As a fan of Superman and Lex Luthor, I hope we’ve managed to create something unique that resonates with the audience.

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2025-03-02 19:31