Michael Rosenbaum, who played Clark Kent's arch nemesis Lex Luthor on Smallville, is leaving the show, STAR reports.

Michael Rosenbaum Leaves Smallville?

Rosenbaum, 35, had been in contract negotiations for months, had been hoped to make limited appearances on the long running young Superman series' eighth season.

"It is time for me to start the next chapter of my life and career," Rosenbaum said. "I hope that I gave you some enjoyment over the years and that you found my portrayal of Lex Luthor to be satisfying."

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