Clark Kent (Tom Welling), right, kisses Chloe (Allison Mack) in the
episode "Abyss." (Photo:CW)
When you think of Superman, a few names come to mind: Clark Kent, Lois Lane, Jimmy Olsen and Lex Luthor. But Chloe Sullivan? Unless you’ve seen the long running series Smallville, this name wouldn’t even ring a bell.
Smallville premiered on the WB all the way back in 2001 to strong ratings and has grown to cult status since (yes, this show is still on the air). It tells the story of a young Clark Kent on his road to becoming Superman and all the people who help him, or hurt him, along the way. What makes Smallville unique is that it focuses on an entire cast of characters, rather than just Clark. One of those characters happens to be fan favorite, Chloe Sullivan, played brilliantly by the underrated actress Allison Mack.
According to Al Gough and Miles Millar, the creators and original show-runners of the comic book series, Chloe was created to be a “proto-Lois.” She’s a young, aspiring journalist (now Watchtower to the Justice League) who also happens to be the best friend of Clark Kent. It’s through Chloe’s outside perspective that we see the story of the future Superman unfold; she’s the misfit and underdog the audience relates to. So, it’s no surprise that both Allison Mack and the character she plays, Chloe Sullivan has garnered a huge following. From 2002 to 2009 Allison Mack was nominated seven consecutive times for the Teen Choice Award’s Choice TV Sidekick. She won twice in 2006 and 2007.
Allison Mack stars as Chloe Sullivan in season 9 of
Smallville. (Photo: CW)
Even with all her fans, it’s been a tough road for Chloe Sullivan. In a series all about the comic mythos, finding her place hasn’t been easy. Many times the character is tossed aside to focus on mythos based characters instead, giving Chloe little screen time. And with constant rumors of her impending death season after season, its surprising Allison Mack is the only season 1 cast member, besides Tom Welling (who plays Clark) still on the cast in season 9. Pretty impressive for a character not from the comics. Chloe Sullivan continues to defy the odds.
Being an underdog isn't only true of Chloe, but of her fans as well. Arguably, it’s been just as tough to be a Chloe fan. Since Smallville is all about fate, many, after talking to different Chloe fans, fear her destiny is doomed because she doesn’t exist in the comics. Some Chloe fans have even left the show, frustrated with the character’s direction, feeling the new show-runners Kelly Souders and Brian Peterson are not giving her character the respect she deserves. In response to upset Chloe fans, Kelly Souders in a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, promised that this season "Chloe fans will not be disappointed." The verdict is still out on that one considering last year Chloe fans were promised by Brian Peterson they would be "happy" by season's end, and the exact opposite happened with the huge letdown of a season finale, "Doomsday."
Until now, Chloe fans haven’t had a place solely designed for Chloe Sullivan, where they could feel free to talk about Chloe without fear of repercussion for liking a character that only exists in the Smallville universe and not the comic book world. Sure, being a Chloe fan online means having a thick skin, but sometimes it's nice to be able to go home where you're not constantly on the defensive (though that does have its place). Two Chloe fans, Jenna and Bekah, decided to create that safety net by putting together a unique fan site called “Defying Mythos” dedicated solely to Chloe Sullivan and her fans.
In an exclusive interview, Jenna, co-creator and administrator to the website, opened up to Examiner.com about the purpose of the website, her decision to focus on Chloe Sullivan, and why this is a safe haven for Chloe fans.
Chloe Sullivan turns to Davis Bloome (Sam Witwer) for help in season eight
when she loses her memories. (Photo: CW)
Can you tell me more about the purpose of "Defying Mythos?"
Well the purpose of "Defying Mythos" was to create a community that Chloe fans and for that matter all Smallville fans alike can enjoy. A place where they can post their thoughts and have respectful discussions about likes and dislikes. The "Defying Mythos" name came from the fact that we felt that's what Chloe's been doing since this series begun. She was created, a non mythological character, that wasn't supposed to belong in "supes" world and yet she's stood the tests of time again and again and here we are 9 seasons later and she's still around.
What made you decide to put this site together?
There were a lot of things that made us finally decide to put the site together. One of the bigger things was that I realized there wasn't that many fan communities out there for the "non mythological character," Chloe Sullivan. I've seen and visited Clark & Lana communities, Lana communities, Lois communities, Clois communities and of course the monster of them all KryptonSite. Yet again there was nothing that was just a central base for Chloe fans. So I suggested the idea to Bekah and we started collaborating on how we'd do this. Through our joining efforts, here we are, and really happy that so many people are excited about this community.
To your knowledge, have there ever been any other Chloe sites like this one?
Not that I know of, after many long hours of searching for places through Google.
Out of all the numerous characters that have been on Smallville over the years, why Chloe Sullivan?
Why Chloe Sullivan you ask? Well because she is the one character I find myself relating to the most. The underdog. The one who fought for her dreams, and who is so self-sacrificing. Through out the years we as the audience have watched this young heroine go through so much! That's one of the things I've always loved about Chloe, how she's so multi-layered. She dealt with heartache in regards to Clark and grew because of it. She dealt with losing one dream and finding another. She's proven tests time and time again and always comes out a fighter. It's just something so inspirational to watch and relate to. Granted these past few years have been rocky for her, but here's to hoping she gets a great ending and send off.
What can you say to all the Chloe fans out there, still watching or not, why they should join "Defying Mythos"?
They should join this place because of the experience, the fun, the games, the discussion, and so much more. Who doesn't want to talk about their favorite heroine and give out their opinions on episodes they liked and didn't like so much? We aim here for all Chloe fans alike whether they are Chlex, Chlollie, Chlark, Chlavis, or Chimmy fans, to enjoy themselves and just have fun expressing themselves.
What features are available on the website?
There are a lot of features available here on this new community. For one, we allow animated signatures and icons. For me, that's always been a plus in any community since I adore watching my favorite scenes over again and again in motion! We also have the ability to post and vote on polls and a chat box for discussion at any time! I can't begin to list all the features now but as the site grows we hope to add more and more features people will enjoy.
What atmosphere do you want members of "Defying Mythos" to experience that might be different from previous experiences with Smallville fandoms? And what can you say to Chloe fans that have left both the show and different fan sites where they no longer feel welcome?
We aim for a community where people can enjoy themselves. I've heard things around this fandom can get harsh sometimes. We aim to keep this community respectable, fun, and where people can come express whom they like: chimmy, chlavis, clana, clois, etc... and not have to worry about anyone negatively looking down on them because of that. I'm of the firm belief everyone is going to have a different opinion and that's fine! Because what would be the fun in things if we all thought the same thing? I think [Chloe fans] really needed ["Defying Mythos"]. I know I did.
Any last words?
I can't believe in 2 days we reached 100 members! I'm soo happy by that!
If Chloe is not your favorite character, that's okay, "Defying Mythos" is not just for Chloe fans. There are forums for the other characters as well, so any and every Smallville fan is welcome as long as they agree to discuss with respect. Not only does the website have a positive atmosphere where everyone feels welcome, there's also a lot of unique fun to be had. Coming soon "Defying Mythos" will even be doing a Secret Santa gift exchange between the members of the community. If you haven't participated in a Smallville fan community for a while, or perhaps you never have, this site is the perfect place to start!
You can join by clicking on this link and registering at the site: "Defying Mythos"
Sound off Below: What do you think about this new Chloe fan site? If you're already a member, what do you like about the site? Do you think Chloe fans won't be disappointed by season's end? Or are you expecting another "Doomsday"? Any other thoughts?
Enjoy this article? Receive email alerts when new articles are available. Just click on the "Subscribe" button above. You can also follow the TUCSON TV EXAMINER on Facebook and Twitter. If you would like me to cover your favorite show, make sure to send me a message!
See Related Articles:
10 TV shows to feed your 'Twilight' craving before the 'New Moon' premiere
Comments
I love this site and Chloe Sullivan. So glad we finally have a fun, safe environment to post. :)
Hahaha, a Chloe website? Of course, not surprised considering their fans. They feel "run off" by the other fans? Hypocrites. Chloe, Chlois, and Chlark fans are the ones who attack those who support the show.
They repeatedly claim that the show has treated them with disrespect, yet they have names for Lois like "Nois." This means that to them, she and specifically Erica Durance is NOT Lois. They whine about Chloe's screen-time to TV Guide and other outlets, and yet the rest of us don't get our questions answered about Clark and Clark's journey.
They are delusional, bullies, inconsiderate, and are an stain on the Smallville fandom. Many of them populate websites like TWOP, claiming the show is a serious of "lighswitches" and crappy writing, and yet they promote the GREATEST "lightswitch" of them all: EDLois dying, and Chloe being named "iconic" Lois. Glad they are getting their own website, hopefully they will leave the rest of the RATIONAL Smallville fans alone!
AWESOME!!! Thanks so much for sharing this and I agree. Chloe fans needed this :).
This is all rather brilliant. Thank you so much.
To John, Don't you think you are a tad overreacting to this article? Clearly, not all Chloe fans are like this. A few bad ones don't represent all. By calling ALL Chloe fans names, only proves why they feel the need for a safe haven.
One can't blame Chloe fans for journalists covering certain topics. They can only write about what the producers give them. That said, has there not also been a lack of Chloe spoilers as well? It goes both ways.
Honestly, your post isn't even rational at all by grouping ALL Chloe fans into one category. Chloe fans can feel the show has gone in a direction they don't like. Not liking the direction of a show is not bashing.
I could tell you many stories about other SV fandoms who attack Chloe fans, but I would never assume that every person in that fandom represents the people who do rude things.
John,
Take a chill pill. No one whined about screen time more then Lois fans and we all know it so stop with the bullshit. TV Guide answered our questions because they wanted to. Get over it.
A stain on fandom? Thank you for being the perfect example of what this article was talking about. Stay classy!
And you're so angry that other opinions exist. That fans exist that don't worship what you do. Not healthy.
Thanks the site is great!
I joined up after reading this article - thank you for creating a safe haven for Chloe fans to celebrate this awesome character and how she's elevated Smallville. It's very welcome to know that there is a place we can discuss her and her role in Clark's life with getting attacked for daring to like a character that isn't part of the "mythos".
I think Chloe changed Superman for the better and she is the one thing that the show did right.
The site is great and hopefully it continues to take off! :D It's nice to have a place where Chloe fans feel they can interact with each other, regardless of shipping preference, without getting bashed or called delusional.
Thanks for the great article! It's awesome to see a light shine on such an under appreciated character, and I couldn't agree more with all that you've said.
Also, thanks for the site recommendation, it looks really cool. It's nice to know there's a respectable environment dedicated to the love of Chloe Sullivan.
For the character that never was, she sure does make an epic impact.
Great article :)
Enjoyed your article. I signed up for the board. I hope it does well. Chloe & Lex hooked me into the show years ago and I only continued watching the last few seasons for Chloe. She's amazing.
Thank you so much for this wonderful article. It's really nice to see all these Chloe fans joining and not afraid to express their opinions.
This is awesome. Jenna and Bekah are such gems for creating this website. I know there are times when Chloe wowed me and times when I think "aww man Chloe why?" but she's an amazing character in my eyes.
This site is absolutely great; I can stay on whenever I have a break and always particpate in the various threads and conversations.
There are separate threads for all the pairings in the Smallville fandom, including those without Chloe and those that involve crossovers to other fandoms. Anyone can share their favourite scenes and chat about whatever they like in the appropriate threads. If there isn't a thread, then anyone can create one.
Jenna, Bekah, and the moderators are very helpful should someone get confused on how to work the features in the site. The site is very user-friendly and so are the people. The members can have a great time (and us crazy ones go wild sometimes in the games section).
If anyone reading this, whether they enjoy Chloe or just Smallville in general, would like to be a part of a polite, online community, please don't hesitate to join.
I agree Heather. It's such a wonderful, polite community to be a part of.
AWESOME!!! Thanks so much for sharing this and I agree. Chloe fans needed this :).
Looking over the site, what I found so amazing about it, was that it's very positive FOR ALL SMALLVILLE characters and relationships. I think the site has a wonderful atmosphere and it's truly a great place for all SV fans, especially Chloe fans, to discuss the show. There's no attacking there, or calling people names. It's very respectful, which I think is representative of Jenna and Bekah, who created the site! I'm glad I could help spread the word. :)
Another thing, it's ridiculous, absolutely ridiculous to think that all Chloe fans hate Lois. Lois is another one of my favs and with regards to both characters I like them both. And I know there are alot of people that do also.
Defying Mythos is pure WIN
Thank you SO much for this awesome article!! I fell in love with Chloe as the intrepid reporter of Smallville and I used to adore the dynamic between her and Clark, it's a shame that the producers have squandered her potential so needlessly. It's great to know that there's a site where Chloe fans can share our love for this great character without fear of being attacked by those who consider Chloe a threat to the "mythos." I hope it does well!
The site is amazing and its a great place for Chloe fans, or just Smallville fans in general Lately on other sites it seems whenever you post an opinion there is always someone who disagrees with you and isn't shy about letting you know that, often in unkind ways. This is a safe place for everyone to talk. You don't have to agree, just have to be respectful and that's very nice .
I joined after reading this article and ironically John's ugly comment.
Thank you for creating a site where Chloe fans feel welcome. :)
Thank you so much for pointing out the existence of this awesome website.
John is the perfect example of why I, as a Chloe fan, never feel comfortable posting at the bigger websites such as Kryptonsite, where liking Chloe is not allowed. There is so much hate directed at Chloe fans for daring to like the "non-mythos" character, and I don't know why. Aren't differing opinions allowed?
I hope Defying Mythos takes off. I've just joined and the website is a very positive, safe environment for any and all Smallville fans.
Do Chloe fans really need a site, they basically have TWOP where they can bitch about the show and live in there delusional fantasies that Chloe is Lois and that Chloe is part of some mythical Core Four. lol
It should be noted for all those who hate how much Chloe's screen time is this season, her average is still higher then it was the first 3 seasons(maybe you all should blame yourselves for wanting the "Old Chloe" back, because screentime wise you almost got her, they just have to drop her time a lil bit)
As for Chloe being part of the Superman mythology, I honestly don't see her going past the Smallville universe. If they really wanted to bring her in Geoff Johns would have in the recent Secret Orgins series.
Thank you so much for this wonderful article. It's really nice to see all these Chloe fans joining and not afraid to express their opinions.
Thanks to Jenna and Bekah's efforts for a site where Chloe fans can go without being bullied into silence or backhandedly insulted. Chloe is half of what I love about the show and her startling near-exclusion from Season 9 is the reason I'm openly boycotting. It's a shame that the Smallville creators thought it was a good idea to abandon the one constant since Season 1, Clark and Chloe's friendship, for a boring, rehashed version of Adventures of Clark N Lois. It's nice for Chloe fans to have a place to talk.
Several Chloe fans don't post on TWOP, so...????
Thank you so much for this wonderful article. It's really nice to see all these Chloe fans joining and not afraid to express their opinions.
I think a couple of the comments are being repeated! Well anyway, it's great to see all the positive Chloe fans out there!!! Thanks for supporting the article. :)
Amber Topping - when you refresh your page sometimes it refreshes the comment you previously posted. You can feel free to delete my second double post
I deleted the repeat of your comment! Thanks.
Wow, great article Amber!
Keep em coming.
Awesome article. I just love this site. It has grown so fast!
Thank you so much for this wonderful article. It's really nice to see all these Chloe fans joining and not afraid to express their opinions.
Old Chloe Fan,
Do you really need to come on here to bitch as you put it? What's your problem? Seriously, I would like to know.
Chloe fans are going nowhere as much as people would like for them to disappear to give the impression that she has no fans.
Our fanvids are attacked, our LJ's are attacked, we're sent hateful emails, we can't post on any board without being attacked and yet we're still here and still around and still loud and still making sure we're heard.
We won't be bullied away but kudos to those who try.
And Geoff Johns seems very much to adore Allison Mack from all accounts and his own words. He's complimented her more then once. At least there's that.
Thanks so much for writing this article. You hit the nail on the head in regard to how Chloe fans feel and why we are so disappointed in the treatment of Chloe's character.
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! for giving me an article and a site rec that I can really get into. I've loved Chloe since the beginning of the show, even more with Season 8 and the well written Doomsday storyline (until the finale, that is). She gave me an underdog to root for, and the site looks like an an amazing place to share the love without getting attacked for it.
Reading back on the comments, oh John, you just had to prove why Chloe fans need their own board. With *fans* like you generalizing them so hastily, it's no wonder they seek better, more positive places.
I've checked out defying mythos, and it looks good! IMO, definitely a positive environment where Chloe are not bitching, however *politely* other posters put it.
It's GREAT to see somewhere can share love for a nonmythos character. XD
Thank you for featuring a Chloe site on the Examiner. And thank you to Jenna and Bekah for creating a safe haven for Chloe fans. Smallville fandom is full of bitchy Cloisers especially at Kryptonsite, that it's great to have place to post opinions without being attacked. Chloe is such an awesome character (or at least she used to be before they stripped her of her core trait and tried to light switch those traits to EdLois unsuccessfully) portrayed by a terrific actress and I'm glad there's place where people can share opinions respectfully and politely.
Ilana
To be blunt my problem is witht he typical TWOP Chloe fan who goes around from spoiler site to spoiler site repeating the same 5 points ad nasuem about Lois(even in spoilers that have nothing to do with Lois). What's even worse it typical TWOP Chloe fan will bash the actress playing Lois, and some even go to the extent of trying to get real life people fired because heaven forbid they give a few tidbits about Lois(that aren't even that spoilery).
I will admit this probably the wrong places to vent my frustrations on that small minority of Chloe fans and hopefully that site can please real Chloe fans who aren't overly bitter(much like TWOP Chloe fan). It would even be nicer if Chloe fans can vent their frustrations in a place that won't allow them to go over the line and start attacking a real life person playing a fictional character just because heaven forbid she ruins there hopes.
Thanks for this article! Wow what a great read! Ill definitely be joining the site. I love Chloe sooo much and it really disappointed me to see Chlark's friendship and the character of Chloe pushed aside simply to put Clois front and center and make them the end all and be all of all couples *eye roll* Im sorry I didnt sign up for the Adventures of Clark and Lois, I thought this show was suppose to be about Clark Kent's life before he became Superman. It'll be nice to have a place to talk about my Chloe love without having to be bashed or accused of being anything all because I don't like Clois or the show SV has turned into.
John, thank you for proving exactly why this Chloe fansite is needed. I think the pots calling the kettle black. If you dont care about Chloe so much why waste your time posting a hateful comment in a pro Chloe article. Jeepers, you must have to much time on your hands.
Chloe's the best! Thanks for making the site :)
Old Chloe Fan, I just don't think it's necessary to blame Chloe fans for "one" person getting involved in that whole firing fiasco, which I'm sure most Chloe fans don't even have any idea of. And you're right, I just don't think this is the right place for that type of venting. It just comes across as generalizing and accusatory. And honestly, mentioning situations like these just start witch hunts toward Chloe fans by grouping them all together like cattle. That said, TWOP is a site set up for venting, so of course anyone who goes there will find venting! It doesn't mean the views of a website dedicated to a particular topic reflect fans everywhere! "Defying Mythos" is a site with a different atmosphere, a positive one, so that's what people will find and can expect.
Thanks for the article and the link. I'm going to have to check out the site. It sounds really positive.
Chloe is one of my favorite characters on the show and it would be nice to have a place to celebrate her without being attacked.
Cora, you're welcome! It's a great site and is very positive and friendly, so I think you'll like it!
You say you aim for this atmosphere
"We aim to keep this community respectable, fun, and where people can come express whom they like: chimmy, chlavis, clana, clois, etc... and not have to worry about anyone negatively looking down on them because of that"
But yet why do posts like this not get condemned like OldChloeFan's post. "Smallville fandom is full of bitchy Cloisers especially at Kryptonsite, that it's great to have place to post opinions without being attacked. "
And also why let people use "Nois", "EdLois" because that is TWOP atmosphere. So how is the atmosphere going to be different here.
Thank you so much for this wonderful article. It's really nice to see all these Chloe fans joining and not afraid to express their opinions.
Loved this article, and I'm heading over to join up now. Chloe fans, and I think SV fans altogether, really need a positive place to chat and share their passion for the show without knee-jerk fan bashing.
It seems like somewhere along the way, folks forgot that disliking a character and bashing fans were different things. The spiral that we've seen since has created nothing but unhappiness - I have a hard time believing the bullies of this fandom gain anything meaningful from their attacks on other fans. I won't even tie them to a "ship" because I don't believe the bullies care as much about their "ship" as they do about the canonic "credibility" it affords them in attacking other fans.
It's great to see a place where fans can express themselves without constant reproach. Thanks again!
YourAtmosphere, as far as I've seen on this site, there hasn't been any of the "Nois" type comments. It's even against the rules. Unfortunately, it seems like fans of all the characters have been quite burned and say unnecessary things from time to time. But, if you want an opinion of the site, you're going to have to look at it yourself. It is positive for everyone and is not like TWOP. I really believe people can have opinions and discuss respectfully on all sides. Well anyway...I'm glad I could put out a positive article about this great new website!!!
Old Chloe Fan,
Sorry, I don't buy those excuses. First stop pretending that there are only a few Chloe fans that are upset at her treatment. Secondly stop painting us as evil and yourself as the victims. I mentioned in my original post to you about how much WE are attacked, not Chloe but her actual fans and you are upset because Lois is bashed???
Chloe is bashed everyhere. Everywhere and her fans are told to shut up and put up. People are allowed to post about their discontent on any blog or article that they see fit and holding that against them is absurd. I'm sure to hell that other people did it in season 8 when they were upset so it's NOT new.
People will disgaree and that does not make them evil.
Iliana, I am more upset that there is a small minority of the Chloe fanbase that can't stop going around from comment section to comment section bashing the character of Lois(giving the most negative character description), many times in spoilers that have nothing to do with Chloe or Lois. As I pointed out what is even worse it seems like alot of those people who do that have there personal hatred of a fictional character spread to real life people.
For all the people who never use terms such as "Nois", "Bimbo Lois" or "EdLois" in such places, my posts are not directed at them. There is way you can express your feelings without being an annoying lil cockroach.
Amber - it should be pointed out more then 1 person tried to get that person fired(there was at least 3 that I saw), beyond that I saw a bunch of people defend those people as if she was ethically right(which begs me to question why those people didn't target the girl who used to tell us a few Chloe tidbits)
Pages
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!