Smallville has spent the past seven seasons developing the complicated relationship between Clark and Lana, which is an essential part of Superman's mythology. However, it's no secret that Clark eventually ends up with the feisty Lois Lane in the comic books. From the moment Lois was introduced in Smallville's fourth season, fans have wondered if the series would eventually pair her with Clark. With Kristin Kreuk leaving the series as it moves into what may be its final season, should the writers begin laying the foundation for the future romance between Clark and Lois?
Many Smallville fans would like to see season 8 focus on Clark's progression into Superman, especially if it's the final year of the show. The series has adhered to the "no flights, no tights" rule for years now, but this refusal to evolve Clark's character has resulted in some less than stellar story lines. Now that Tom Welling is in his thirties, I think it's safe to let him play a grown up for at least one season. While I don't expect Clark to be yanking on red and blue tights any time soon, it would be great to see him officially take on the role of a superhero.
Of course, being a superhero means having a very complicated love life, and this is where the great Lois (Erica Durance) versus Lana debate comes in. Though everyone knows that Lana doesn't end up with Clark, the writers have spent a lot of time developing their romance over the years. If the show wrapped up with the two of them separated and moving along two different paths, it's possible the "Clana" fans would feel cheated and upset. It wouldn't hurt to give those fans a happy ending, even if deep down they knew the romance wouldn't last.
On the other hand, Kristin Kreuk will only be appearing in a handful of episodes next season, which may make a happy ending for Clana fans impossible. With Lana out of the picture, it seems like the perfect time to start something subtle between Clark and Lois. I don't think they should date or hook up in any way, but I'd like to see an ending that makes it obvious they're destined for one another. If the show wants to leave us with a hint of the man Clark will be in the future, having him end up with Lana would be a bit of a cheat. We all know how the story goes, so why not move it along?
Now that Smallville is moving into its eighth and possibly final season, it's time to let Clark evolve. Let him take to the skies, let him embrace being a hero, and let him move on from Lana and begin thinking about a certain feisty reporter.
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