Fans Rank David Corenswet the 6th-Best Superman Actor of All Time
Superman remains one of the most iconic heroes, portrayed by a range of actors across films, TV shows, and animations, each bringing their own take on the Man of Steel. Fans recently shared their picks for the best Superman performances, creating a ranked list that highlights the diversity of interpretations.
David Corenswet, a fresh face in the Superman legacy, secured an impressive sixth place in the fan vote. As a newcomer to the role, his strong showing suggests he’s already winning over audiences, and I’m confident his ranking will rise as more fans experience his performance.
21. David Wilson
David Wilson played Superman in the TV special ‘It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s Superman!’ (1975). His performance leaned into the campy, musical vibe of the production, but the low-budget sets and shortened script didn’t give him much to work with. Fans found his portrayal lacking the heroic depth or physical presence expected of Superman, contributing to his low ranking. I think Wilson’s effort was hindered by the show’s rushed production and dated style, making it a tough sell for audiences.
The special’s quirky tone and weak execution overshadowed Wilson’s performance, leaving it as a curious but forgettable chapter in Superman’s history. His Clark Kent felt more like a caricature than a fully realized hero, which didn’t resonate with fans of the iconic character.
20. Yuri Lowenthal
Yuri Lowenthal brought a youthful Clark Kent to life in the animated ‘Legion of Super-Heroes’ (2006-2008). His energetic delivery suited the show’s lighter tone, but the focus on a team of heroes meant Superman wasn’t the star. Fans liked his effort but felt it lacked the commanding presence of other portrayals. I think Lowenthal’s voice captured a fun, young Superman, but it didn’t carry the weight of a standalone hero.
His performance was solid for the show’s vibe, but it didn’t break new ground. Lowenthal’s Superman was enjoyable yet overshadowed by the ensemble cast.
19. Gerard Christopher
Gerard Christopher played Superboy in the TV series ‘Superboy’ (1989-1992). He brought enthusiasm to a young Clark Kent, but the show’s campy style and tight budget limited his impact. Fans found his portrayal charming but not iconic, as the series leaned heavily into lighthearted teen drama. I enjoyed Christopher’s energy, but the scripts often felt dated, holding him back from a higher rank.
His Superboy was a product of its time, fun but not deep enough to compete with bigger names. Christopher’s effort was likable, though it didn’t redefine the character.
18. John Newton
John Newton took on Superboy in the first season of ‘Superboy’ (1988-1989). His performance aimed to show a young hero finding his way, but the show’s rough production and simplistic plots didn’t give him much to work with. Fans felt he couldn’t match the charisma of other Supermen, especially in the shadow of more iconic portrayals. I found Newton’s take earnest but lacking the spark needed to stand out.
The role demanded more depth than the scripts allowed, and Newton’s brief stint didn’t leave a strong impression. His Superboy feels like a footnote in the Superman story.
17. Beau Weaver
Beau Weaver voiced Superman in the short-lived animated ‘Superman’ series (1988). His performance was straightforward, fitting the era’s simpler take on the hero, but it didn’t offer anything fresh. The show’s brief run and lack of bold storytelling kept Weaver’s Superman from shining. I think his voice work was decent but too generic to make a lasting impact.
Fans ranked him low due to the forgettable nature of the series. Weaver’s Superman was functional, but it didn’t capture the heart or grandeur of the character.
16. Jason J. Lewis
Jason J. Lewis voiced Superman in ‘Justice League Action’ (2016-2018), bringing energy to the role in a kid-friendly series. His performance fit the show’s fast-paced, light tone, but the short episodes didn’t allow for much character depth. Fans appreciated his effort but found it less memorable than others. I liked Lewis’s lively take, but it felt more like a supporting role than a definitive Superman.
His voice work was fun but didn’t carry the emotional weight of the best portrayals. The show’s format limited his chance to truly shine.
15. Bud Collyer
Bud Collyer was the voice of Superman in the classic ‘Superman’ animated shorts (1941-1943). His performance set an early standard for the character, with a bold, heroic tone that suited the era’s style. Fans respect his pioneering role but rank him lower due to the simplicity of those early cartoons. I found Collyer’s voice iconic for its time, capturing a larger-than-life hero.
His work laid the groundwork for future portrayals, but the lack of complex storytelling keeps him mid-tier. Collyer’s Superman is a nostalgic gem, though not a top contender.
14. Kirk Alyn
Kirk Alyn played Superman in the serials ‘Superman’ (1948) and ‘Atom Man vs. Superman’ (1950). He brought energy to the role in an era of low-budget filmmaking, but the serials’ dated style and basic plots didn’t leave much room for depth. Fans value his historical significance but rank him lower for lack of modern appeal. I think Alyn’s charm carried the role, though the production quality held him back.
His Superman was a bold start for live-action portrayals, but it feels simple compared to later takes. Alyn’s effort deserves respect for its place in history.
13. Jack Quaid
Jack Quaid voices Superman in the animated series ‘My Adventures with Superman’ (2023-present). His fresh, relatable take on Clark Kent resonates with younger fans, blending humor and heart. The show’s modern, anime-inspired style boosts his performance, though some feel it’s too lighthearted for a top spot. I love Quaid’s approachable Superman, which feels perfect for today’s audiences.
His portrayal balances Clark’s kindness and strength, making it a standout in animation. Quaid’s rising popularity suggests he could climb higher with time.
12. Nolan North
Nolan North voiced Superman in various animated projects, including ‘Young Justice’ (2010-2022). His performance brought a confident, seasoned hero to life, though the ensemble nature of the show limited his focus. Fans enjoy his strong delivery but place him mid-tier due to less screen time. I found North’s voice commanding, fitting a more mature Superman well.
His work shines in group dynamics, but it doesn’t steal the spotlight. North’s Superman is reliable but not iconic enough for the top ranks.
11. Danny Dark
Danny Dark lent his voice to Superman in the ‘Super Friends’ series (1973-1985). His deep, heroic tone defined the character for a generation of kids, though the show’s simplistic stories didn’t demand much range. Fans appreciate the nostalgia but rank him lower for lack of complexity. I think Dark’s voice was perfect for the era, giving Superman a bold presence.
His performance is a classic, but the show’s light tone keeps it from higher placement. Dark’s Superman remains a fond memory for many.
10. George Newbern
George Newbern voiced Superman in the DC Animated Universe, including ‘Justice League’ (2001-2004) and ‘Justice League Unlimited’ (2004-2006). His performance blended strength and warmth, making Superman a standout in ensemble casts. Fans love his balanced take but rank him just outside the top tier. I found Newbern’s voice a great mix of authority and humanity, fitting the animated hero perfectly.
His Superman feels like a team leader, though not always the focus. Newbern’s work is a strong, reliable portrayal that holds up well.
9. Dean Cain
Dean Cain played Superman in the TV series ‘Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman’ (1993-1997). His charming, down-to-earth Clark Kent won over fans, with a focus on romance and drama over action. Some felt his Superman leaned too soft compared to more heroic takes. I loved Cain’s relatable approach, which made Clark feel like a real person.
His chemistry with Lois Lane carried the show, but the lighter tone kept him from the top spots. Cain’s portrayal is a fan favorite for its heart.
8. George Reeves
George Reeves starred in ‘Adventures of Superman’ (1952-1958), defining the character for early TV audiences. His earnest, straightforward Superman became iconic, though the show’s dated style and simple plots limit its modern appeal. Fans respect his pioneering role but rank him behind flashier performances. I think Reeves nailed the classic hero vibe, embodying Superman’s core values.
His portrayal feels timeless yet tied to its era. Reeves set a high bar for live-action Supermen to follow.
7. Brandon Routh
Brandon Routh portrayed Superman in the film ‘Superman Returns’ (2006). His performance paid homage to Christopher Reeve while adding his own quiet intensity, though the movie’s slow pace divided fans. Many appreciated his heartfelt take, but some felt it lacked originality. I found Routh’s Superman compelling, balancing strength with vulnerability.
His role was a bold attempt to revive the franchise, but it didn’t fully connect with all audiences. Routh’s performance remains a strong, underrated effort.
6. David Corenswet
David Corenswet steps into the cape in ‘Superman’ (2025). His fresh take has already earned praise for its modern, grounded approach, landing him an impressive sixth place. A lot of fans love how he redefine the character with a mix of charm and strength. I think Corenswet’s early success shows he’s a natural fit for Superman.
His ranking as a newcomer is remarkable, and his performance is poised to climb higher. Corenswet’s Superman feels like a promising new chapter.
5. Tyler Hoechlin
Tyler Hoechlin plays Superman in the TV series ‘Superman & Lois’ (2021-present). His portrayal emphasizes Clark as a family man and hero, blending warmth with quiet strength. Fans love his relatable take, though some feel the show’s domestic focus softens the action. I find Hoechlin’s Superman refreshing, grounding the hero in everyday struggles.
His performance resonates for its emotional depth, making Clark feel human. Hoechlin’s steady rise in popularity keeps him near the top.
4. Tom Welling
Tom Welling starred as Clark Kent in ‘Smallville’ (2001-2011), focusing on a young hero before he fully becomes Superman. His grounded, emotional performance won fans over, though some wished for more cape-wearing moments. I loved Welling’s take for its focus on Clark’s growth, making him relatable and real.
His long run on the show built a loyal fanbase, but the pre-Superman angle keeps him just shy of the top three. Welling’s Clark is a defining portrayal for many.
3. Tim Daly
Tim Daly voiced Superman in ‘Superman: The Animated Series’ (1996-2000) and a lot of animated movies. His performance captured the hero’s strength and kindness, creating a definitive animated Superman. Fans adore his commanding yet approachable voice, which carried the show’s balance of action and heart. I think Daly’s work set a high standard for animated portrayals, full of warmth.
His Superman feels both larger-than-life and deeply human. Daly’s iconic voice work earns him a well-deserved top-three spot.
2. Henry Cavill
Henry Cavill played Superman in the films ‘Man of Steel’ (2013), ‘Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice’ (2016), and ‘Justice League’ (2017). His intense, modern take brought a new edge to the character, though some fans debated the darker tone. I found Cavill’s Superman powerful, with a brooding depth that fit the gritty DC films.
His physicality and emotional range made him a standout, narrowly missing the top spot. Cavill’s portrayal remains a bold, divisive favorite.
1. Christopher Reeve
Christopher Reeve defined Superman in the films ‘Superman’ (1978), ‘Superman II’ (1980), ‘Superman III’ (1983), and ‘Superman IV: The Quest for Peace’ (1987). His charming, earnest Clark Kent and heroic Superman set the gold standard, blending humor, heart, and strength. Fans still see him as the ultimate Man of Steel. I believe Reeve’s performance is unmatched, capturing the character’s essence perfectly.
His work shaped how we see Superman, making him a cultural icon. Reeve’s legacy as the top Superman endures.
The fans have ranked this list originaly on Ranker, and you can see how they voted there.
Which Superman actor is your favorite, or did I miss a great performance? Share your thoughts in the comments!