Update: This article previously stated that Supergirl would be casting Lois Lane. It now appears that the casting call in question was likely for new DC show Metropolis.
Arguably the most iconic fictional journalist ever, Lois Lane is far more than Superman’s girlfriend. It’s about time that the fearless reporter star in her own show. We previously collected a list of perfect actresses for the role, after Screenrant reported that Supergirl would be casting the character. lt now seems that the casting call in question was likely for Metropolis, an upcoming show on DC’s streaming service, which will follow Lois Lane and Lex Luthor as they investigate the strange happenings in Metropolis, prior to Superman’s arrival.
Its a tough role to fill. Many actresses already have – Margot Kidder, Teri Hatcher, Erica Durance, and Amy Adams being the most notable. Who will join this exclusive group of actresses next? We have a few ideas.
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To cast the perfect Lois Lane, you need to find an actress that is capable of witty banter and convincing ambition while still being vulnerable when necessary. The ideal choice would have Teri Hatcher’s emotional expression, Erica Durance’s cutting sarcasm, and Amy Adams’s dedication. Metropolis also has a chance to add some diversity to the list of Loises that currently exists, and should consider casting a woman of color or a woman in her thirties (or both!)
Rachael Leigh Cook
Rachael Leigh Cook is our number one choice. Just look at her! Cook is an experienced and beloved actress. Her biggest roles include She’s All That, Perception, and Josie and the Pussycats. Check out this promo for Perception to see just how ideal a choice Rachael Leigh Cook would be:
Rachael certainly has the look. She looks a lot like Lois looks in many of the more modern comics. She also has the acting skills and the personality to take on the role – she portrays a confidence and wit in all of her roles that is extremely reminiscent of Lois Lane. She’s tough but vulnerable, independent but still capable of portraying a woman in love. She was born for the role.
Nicole Beharie
Nicole Beharie would be an amazing choice for Lois Lane. Best known for her roles in American Violet, Shame, and Sleepy Hollow, the actress is no stranger to quick wit and confident acting. Check out how self-assured she is in this clip from Sleepy Hollow:
As if we needed any further reason to cast her, Nicole would diversify the Metropolis cast in a way television desperately needs. Plus, the actress certainly has the acting skills to pull off such an iconic role. And, if you take a look at her twitter, Nicole espouses the very beliefs that Lois holds most dear – feminism, equality, and compassion for all. Casting her would be a fantastic choice for the reporter.
Hilarie Burton
Best known as One Tree Hill’s Peyton Sawyer, Hilarie Burton is capable of sarcasm, vulnerability, and passion in a way that would be perfect for Lois Lane. If you aren’t convinced, check out this clip from White Collar:
Now, imagine Hilarie as an investigative reporter. It totally works, right? Plus, Burton was one of the strongest voices behind the early #MeToo movement, helping to expose One Tree Hill showrunner Mark Scwahn, and personally coining the phrase “burn it down, sis.” Her casting would fit well with the character and would be a strong statement against sexual harassment.
Cassidy Freeman
DC is no stranger to legacy casting, and tends to gravitate towards actors from previous Superman properties. Supergirl has already cast Dean Cain and Teri Hatcher from Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, Helen Slater from the 1984 Supergirl, and Erica Durance from Smallville. Cassidy Freeman could be their next legacy casting choice! Here’s a clip of Cassidy as Tess Mercer on Smallville:
Cassidy has it all: she’s gorgeous, sassy, and has plenty of experience with the Super-mythos from her time on Smallville! Plus, she has plenty of experience dealing with the Luthors.
Leighton Meester
And, finally, Leighton Meester. Anyone who’s seen Gossip Girl knows that Leighton is more than capable of cutting wit and a tough exterior. Lois may not be quite as ruthless as Blair Waldorf, but those skills would certainly lend to Leighton’s portrayal of her. Check out this clip to see what we mean:
In real life, Leighton lays pretty low, rarely posting on social media and only taking the occasional film role here and there. But that means she’s probably available! Could portraying a timeless character like Lois Lane be the thing that brings Leighton back to television? We sure hope so!
There are plenty of actresses that could do a fantastic job with this role. However, it’s also very easy to mess up. Metropolis would do well to cast someone around age 35 that can convincingly portray a witty investigative journalist like Lois. Hopefully, they do right by the iconic character.
Here’s to hoping they do our favorite fearless reporter justice.