Smallville by Timothy White/The CW

Avowing their "every intention of letting [fans] be the first to know the reality," Smallville executive producers Brian Peterson and Kelly Souders have issued a statement addressing rampant speculation that the development of The Graysons, a new CW series chronicling the pre-Batman days of young master Dick, means that Clark Kent's own days are numbered.

"Never have we been so committed to the continuing success of Smallville as we are to seasons 8 and 9," the pair say in a note posted to KryptonSite.com. "While we are extremely excited to... create the origin story of Dick Grayson, it has never been intended as a replacement for Smallville."

Souders and Petersen, who are creating The Graysons with Supernatural executive producer McG, go on to promise Smallville fans, "[We] are all working full-steam ahead on a storyline for Clark that allows for seasons of further trials and adventures for our favorite hero." - Matt Mitovich

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