Smallville Season 8 News

After seven years on the air, the CW's Smallville will be returning for an eighth season to possibly conclude its story of how Clark Kent came to be Superman. With some important changes taking place regarding the cast and production team, it could be an interesting year for the show.

Executive producers Al Gough and Miles Millar announced they will not be returning for Smallville's eighth season. As the show's creators, Gough and Millar have truly been the backbone of the series until now. Stepping into their shoes will be veteran writers Todd Slavkin, Darren Swimmer, Kelly Souders and Brian Peterson. All four have written some of Smallville's best episodes and worked as producers on the show.

Actor Michael Rosenbaum, who has brilliantly portrayed Lex Luthor the past seven seasons, announced he will not be returning to Smallville this fall. Lex's storyline ended on a cliffhanger in the season seven finale, but don't expect to see that plot twist resolved anytime soon. Kryptonsite.com has reported Rosenbaum may appear in season eight as a guest star, although that is purely speculation and nothing official has been announced.

Also leaving the show are actresses Kristin Kreuk and Laura Vandervoort. Kreuk, who played Clark's flame Lana Lang, will not be returning as a series regular. Vandervoort, who played Clark's Kryptonian cousin Kara in season seven, was not signed for season eight. Both actresses have stated they may return as guest stars, with Kreuk possibly starring in five episodes.

To the delight of many fans, Smallville will be bringing back Oliver Queen/Green Arrow for season eight. Justin Hartley, who first donned the Emerald Archer's suit in season six, will be returning as a series regular in the fall. According to Kryptonsite.com, fans can expect to learn more of the hero's backstory and see the Green Arrow question his role as a crime fighter. Hartley has said his character will forge a deeper relationship with Clark this season, although that won't stop them from butting heads.

Also joining the show are actors Sam Witwer and Cassidy Freeman. Both these actors will portray multi-dimensional characters who eventually pose a threat to Clark and his circle of friends. Fans of the DC Universe will recognize Witwer's character as the infamous Doomsday, known for killing Superman in a groundbreaking comic book story arc. Freeman will play Tess Mercer, Lex Luthor's heir apparent and a potentially deadly love interest for Clark.

Returning to the show are series regulars Tom Welling (Clark Kent), Allison Mack (Chloe Sullivan), Erica Durance (Lois Lane), and Aaron Ashmore (Jimmy Olsen).

For plot spoilers, check out www.kryptonsite.com. Season eight of Smallville is scheduled to premiere Thursday, September 18 at 8 pm.