Why did they replace Jordan Elsass on Superman & Lois? Exploring his exit and who he was replaced by

Why did they replace Jordan Elsass on Superman & Lois? (Image via YouTube/DC)
Why did they replace Jordan Elsass on Superman & Lois? (Image via YouTube/DC)

Superman & Lois is not only known for its engaging storyline but also for the stellar performances of the cast. The CW superhero series features talented actors, including Jordan Elsass, who played the titular couple’s son, Jonathan Kent, in the first two seasons.

Elsass impressed everyone with his portrayal of the modest and kind-hearted son of Superman. However, in August 2022, Warner Bros. Television announced that the actor would no longer be a part of the show. He was eventually replaced by Grace Beside Me actor Michael Bishop in season 3.

The studio initially cited personal reasons for Elsass’s departure from Superman & Lois. The actor later disclosed that he exited the project to focus on his mental health.


Jordan Elsass left Superman & Lois to take care of his mental health

Jordan Elsass in Superman & Lois (Image via The CW)
Jordan Elsass in Superman & Lois (Image via The CW)

Jordan Elsass was associated with Superman & Lois since the show’s inception in 2021. He was 18 when he landed the role of Jonathan Kent alongside Alexander Garfin, who played his twin brother, Jordan Kent. The audience loved the rapport between the brothers, and Elsass was considered an integral part of the show.

However, after the second season concluded in 2022, Warner Bros. Television confirmed the actor’s exit from the series, stating it was his decision. The move left the audience concerned about the actor and Jonathan Kent's future in the series.

Elsass then addressed his exit in a Cameo video, revealing that he wanted a break to take care of his mental health. The video was shared on X (formerly Twitter) on August 22, 2022, where the actor said:

“It's been a tough few weeks, as you might imagine, everything going on with the show. It's been a tough few weeks. You know, it's sad. It's a shame. I know that I was pumped for Season 3, for certain. You know, what are you going to do? Mental health is 100 percent a priority. There's no question that that is a priority. It's been a goal. It's gotta take precedence.”

Elsass also hinted that he might take a break from acting altogether. Since then, he has maintained a low profile and has not appeared in any show or film. While a few of his projects are said to be in production, including the TV movie Billy and the Bandit, it is not yet confirmed when he will be seen again on the screen.

Before becoming famous with Superman and Lois, Elsass made brief appearances in shows like Tell Me Your Secrets, SKAM Austin, Vindication, Little Fires Everywhere, and The Long Road Home.


Jordan Elsass was replaced by Michael Bishop in Superman & Lois Season 3

Michael Bishop as Jonathan Kent (Image via The CW)
Michael Bishop as Jonathan Kent (Image via The CW)

In September 2022, Superman & Lois found its new Jonathan in the form of Michael Bishop. The Australian actor continued Elsass’ legacy and was able to make his place in the audience's heart. He debuted as Superman’s son in the third season premiere in March 2023.

In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Bishop addressed the recasting, stating that he does not want to copy Elsass but wants to build his character based on the foundations laid by the previous actor. Bishop said:

“Well, I wasn't trying to copy anything that was done before. I wanted to stay true to the character that had been built by the previous actor, but I also wanted to find what was different about my Jon and just played him how I felt he should be played, with the incredible foundations that was built by Jordan.”

Superman & Lois marked the first major role for Bishop. He previously appeared in the Australian fantasy drama Grace Beside Me and the TV movie Spin.

Superman & Lois returned with its fourth and final season on The CW on October 7, 2024. The series airs new episodes weekly on Mondays.

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Edited by Priscillah Mueni