By ALAN STANLEY BLAIR Source: TV Guide Apr-03-2008 They developed the Superman mythology for television, but now "Smallville" creators have gone up, up and away, leaving the series far behind.
In a mildly shocking announcement, Al Gough and Miles Millar have confirmed that they will depart "Smallville" after the conclusion of the current seventh season, despite The CW picking the series up for yet another year. No real reason for their exit has been announced, however in their love letter to fans the dynamic duo have said only that it is time for them to move on and also thanked the entire cast and crew for their efforts over the years, as well as the viewers who helped turn the series into such a success. "Over the last seven years we have had the honor of working with a remarkable team of people here in Los Angeles and in Vancouver," the two said in an open letter to the fans. "We have been blessed with a wonderful cast who we have watched mature with admiration and affection. We have been rewarded with a fan base that is as loyal as it is vocal. Both Gough and Millar said they were proud of the work they did on "Smallville," and that they accomplished everything they set out to do on the show without ever compromising their vision. "We leave knowing that 'Smallivlle' is the longest-running comic book-based series of all time," they said. "The show was featured on the covers of Rolling Stone, Mad Magazine, TV Guide and Entertainment Weekly. The pilot had the highest-rated premiere in the history of The WB." Gough and Millar haven't cleared out of their offices just yet, but The CW has already been looking for replacements for the two, deciding on elevating Darren Swimmer, Todd Slavkin, Kelly Souders and Brian Peterson to leadership roles on the show. "Al Gough and Miles Millar have been great partners and instrumental in the development and success of 'Smallville,'" a CW representative said. Swimmer and company "have been writing for the show for the past six seasons, and as producers for the last four years. They have played an integral role in the ongoing creative evolution of the series. As showrunners, they will continue to deliver the compelling storyline that 'Smallville' fans have come to expect and love." Gough and Miller aren't the only ones departing the series in the eighth season as show stars Michael Rosenbaum and Kristen Kruek (who play Lex Luthor and Lana Lang) have also confirmed that they will not be back full time next year. Reports also suggest that at least one other character will be permanently leaving the show. Throughout its seven-year run, "Smallville" has not only tackled the many facets of the Superman mythos, but also that of several other popular comic book characters. Among their ranks are The Flash/Impulse, Cyborg, Aquaman, Green Arrow, Black Canary and more recently Supergirl. The series has developed a strong online following and has featured various guest stars from other Superman projects including Dean Caine, Margot Kidder and Christopher Reeve. "Smallville" airs Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET on The CW. http://www.syfyportal.com/news424892.html
