There’s something going on behind mild-mannered citizen Clark Kent’s glasses. It’s almost like he’s hiding something! Since the early 1930’s, Superman has needed a way to protect his identity and his lady love Lois Lane from evil-doers. But how do you hide out when you’re the most powerful being on the planet? Well, it’s starts with a great pair of glasses.

The 7 Generations of Clark Kent Glasses

Clark Kent is arguably the most famous alter ego out there. Thanks to tv and movies, we have seen our straight-laced hero evolve to fit every generation. With the release of the new movie Man of Steel we see a grittier, edgier Superman than ever before.

So lets take an xray-vision powered look all the great Clark Kents (and their glasses!) to fly across the silver screen…

1. Kirk Alyn

In 1948, the Superman franchise saw it’s first incarnation on the big screen. In the film serial titled Superman, Kirk Alyn became the first actor to don the iconic hat and glasses of Clark Kent.

It would also be the first and only time we see him in wire frame glasses.

2. George Reeves

A favorite of many, George Reeves starred in the 1950’s television series Adventures of Superman. Styled in round, tortoise shell glasses.

This Clark Kent was an assertive and authoritative approach to the character.

3. Christopher Reeve

If you think all of these Kents have looked the same so far, you are sorely mistaken. Christopher Reeve’s star-making portrayal sees our hero in large frame “Clark Kent” style glasses that were popular in the 70’s and 80’s (though that might be the same hat!).

Reeve’s immensely popular movies were the first to have us see Clark Kent as more awkward and bumbling…setting up a modern geek stereotype.

4. Dean Cain

How could Lois resist this guy! In the 90’s Dean Cain charmed us all with his dashing, fresh take on Superman and some stylish horn rimmed glasses.

The Adventures of Lois and Clark…Talk about a love story!

 5. Tom Welling

Smallville showed us a look at Clark Kent’s early days spent growing up in his hometown. The show made us wait nine agonizing seasons before he donned his iconic disguise, now modern and sleek for the new millennium.

Let’s hope his (maybe) best friend Lex Luthor isn’t too jealous of his new look.

6. Brandon Routh

In a performance that channeled the late Christopher Reeve, Brandon Routh took up the cape in 2006’s Superman Returns. Both retro and nerdy, his glasses were a perfect fit for this installment of the series.

The blue contact lenses, not so much.

7. Henry Cavill

The weekend box office is no match for him! Though his glasses may be similar to our last two, this movie is anything but. Man of Steel actor Henry Cavill plays our hero as a grittier, darker character and it is channeled through Clark Kent as well.

It’s a shame these glasses don’t get more screen time. I guess we will have to wait for the sequel!

Well there you have it. A look back at over 7 decades of super men (pun intended!) and their “Clark Kent Glasses”.

Which one was your favorite? I want to hear all about your favorite Superman in the comment box below.

Feel free to show off your super style with a pic of your Clark Kent Glasses 🙂