and
Dean Cain DC Comics president
Jenette Kahn had been working for several years to sell the concept of a Superman television series, with the title "Lois Lane's Daily Planet". In 1991
Leslie Moonves and
Deborah Joy LeVine helped sell the series to
ABC television network with a new title,
Lois and Clark: The New Adventures of Superman. LeVine had never read a comic book before and was more interested in pursuing a romantic comedy angle than the superhero themes. One executive described the series as “aimed at women; not aimed at comic book fans.” A few episodes directly emphasized that Clark was the dominant personality, not Superman. Unique to the series was the depiction of Clark Kent and Superman's traditional hairstyles being reversed—in this series, it is Superman whose hair is slicked back and Clark whose fringe falls more naturally. An additional element that reflected the post-Byrne comics was the portrayal of
Lex Luthor as a corrupt corporate tycoon rather than the traditional mad scientist. The illusion of Superman flying was accomplished by suspending actor
Dean Cain with a flight harness and wires which were erased from the shots in
post-production; anyone Cain was carrying was independently wired. The sets were designed to have a timeless appearance, such that the show could seem to be taking place in the 1950s or the near future and not become dated in later years. Levine said what ultimately won Cain the role was his reading for the scene where Clark talks with Jonathan Kent about feeling he does not fit in. After
Lane Smith was cast for the part of
Perry White, LeVine decided to replace the character's
catchphrase from the comics with "Great shades of Elvis!", since she thought it implausible that a
Southerner would ever say "Great Caesar’s ghost!". This led to Perry being portrayed as a consummate
Elvis Presley fan.
John Shea was chosen for the part of Lex Luthor because he had the looks and charm of a romantic
leading man; LeVine wanted a Lex Luthor who could serve as a romantic rival for Superman.
K Callan distinguished herself from the other actresses auditioning to play Martha Kent by wearing a pink track suit. Whereas the other actresses presented themselves as stereotypical farmers, Callan understood that the show's producers were looking for a modernized Martha Kent. ==Series history==