Is Lex older than Clark?

Answered by Tom Adger

Lex Luthor is indeed older than Clark Kent in the Smallville series. According to the show’s canon, Lex was 9 years old during the meteor shower that hit Smallville in 1989, which means he was born around 1980. On the other hand, Clark Kent was a baby during the meteor shower, making him approximately 3 years old at the time. This age difference of around 6 years between Lex and Clark is consistently maintained throughout the series.

One of the reasons why Lex’s childhood is explored more in the show compared to Clark’s is because the story primarily revolves around Clark’s journey of becoming Superman. Exploring Lex’s past allows the writers to delve into his complex character, showcasing the events and experiences that shaped him into the iconic Superman villain.

Throughout the series, we get to see glimpses of Lex’s troubled childhood and the strained relationship he had with his father, Lionel Luthor. These flashbacks provide insight into the emotional and psychological struggles Lex faced growing up, which ultimately influenced the choices he made as an adult. The show often delves into themes of nature vs. nurture, examining whether Lex’s destiny as a villain was predetermined or a result of his upbringing.

Lex’s older age also plays a significant role in his dynamic with Clark. As an older character, Lex possesses more life experience and knowledge, which gives him an advantage in certain situations. This power dynamic between the two characters adds depth to their relationship, as Lex often finds himself torn between his admiration for Clark’s moral compass and his own darker inclinations.

Furthermore, exploring Lex’s past allows the show to delve into his complex motivations and the gradual transformation from a sympathetic character to a full-fledged villain. By providing a deeper understanding of Lex’s upbringing and the challenges he faced, the series aims to humanize him and shed light on the factors that contributed to his descent into darkness.

Lex Luthor is portrayed as older than Clark Kent in the Smallville series, with an approximate age difference of 6 years. His childhood is explored more extensively in the show, allowing for a deeper understanding of his character and motivations. Through flashbacks and character development, we witness the events and experiences that shaped Lex into the iconic Superman villain he becomes.