Why the Smallville Star’s Forgotten 21-Episode Sci-Fi Reboot Deserves Your Next Binge
A classic hero returns
Flash Gordon began in newspaper comic strips in 1934, created as a science-fiction counterpart to Buck Rogers. Film serials, television adaptations and the 1980 space-opera movie later brought the character to new audiences.
The Sci-Fi Channel, now known as SyFy, chose to revive the property in the years after its successful reimagining of Battlestar Galactica. The decision raised expectations among fans of both pulp adventures and the channel’s earlier work.
A slower take on Flash
Developed by Peter Hume, the 2007 series recast the familiar story for a contemporary setting. Eric Johnson, known for Smallville, played Steven “Flash” Gordon. The show took a gradual approach to its science-fiction material, rather than making an immediate impression. It was frequently maligned, and its run ended with little impact at the time.
A reputation that changed
The series did not win over every viewer, but it eventually found a stronger sense of direction. That shift has led some to regard it as an underappreciated entry in 2000s science fiction.
The show’s history reflects the challenge of adapting a character whose adventures had already been retold across comics, film and television. Its eventual appeal rests on a slow-burn approach to the classic space-opera material.
Key points
- Flash Gordon first appeared in newspaper comics in 1934.
- SyFy’s 2007 revival starred former Smallville actor Eric Johnson.
- The series took a slow-building approach to its science-fiction story.
- Though initially maligned, it later found its voice.