Annette O'Toole as Martha Kent
Martha Kent, on the television series
Smallville, is portrayed by Annette O’Toole. Martha is the wife of the late Jonathan Kent and the adoptive mother of Clark Kent. As Clark was growing up, she and Jonathan led him to believe that he was just like any other boy, but the truth was, they found Clark amidst the destruction of the meteor shower. Clark was only five years old then, and it was clear to Martha and Jonathan that he was not of this world. Nevertheless, not having been able to conceive a child of her own, Martha immediately assumed the role of Clark’s mother, and since that fateful day, tried her best to raise Clark in a loving and supportive environment.
When Clark entered high school, he began to notice extraordinary changes, and eventually, he became wise to his superhuman powers. At that point, Martha and Jonathan felt compelled to explain to Clark the truth about his origin. With the secret out, Martha became even more worried for her Clark’s safety, especially when he started using his powers to save other people from danger. Still, she continued to give Clark her full support, and tried her best to treat him like she would any other teenager, especially when it came to helping Clark with his problems regarding his friends and long-time love, Lana Lang.
Unlike Jonathan, Martha was not overly concerned when Clark became friends with Lex Luthor, son of the wealthy Lionel Luthor. Later on, Martha herself began working for Lionel, to the chagrin of Jonathan. Nevertheless, their marriage remained strong, and Martha, despite having developed feelings for Lionel, always stayed faithful to Jonathan. She even conceived a son, but unfortunately, lost the baby after another calamity hit Smallville. Their union was cut short when Jonathan, after beating Lex Luthor in the senatorial race, died from a heart attack. She then assumed the senatorial position and has since, grown much closer to Lionel.
(Photo courtesy of Kharen Hill)