Michael Shanks 'likes Watchmen comparison'

Michael Shanks has said that he understands why fans compare his performance as Hawkman on Smallville: Absolute Justice to Watchmen.

The actor told ScifiWire that he enjoys playing such meaty roles.

"Yes, it does have the parallel of danger in it. I understand that," he said.

"This guy's a warrior... He's kickass and all business, and it was a really neat departure to be able to do that. It becomes a bit scenery chewy at certain points, but those characters are a lot of fun to play, and this guy was because he was such a vast departure. It was a lot of fun for me to sink my teeth into."

The Stargate SG1 star explained that he decided to take the role because he doesn't think he'll be getting many more opportunities to play superheroes.

"I'm getting to that age where I didn't think too many offers were going to come my way to be playing any superhero characters anytime in the near future."

He added: "My eldest daughter is getting where she appreciates that kind of stuff, and I thought it would be a hoot to give that to them. It turns out my younger ones seemed to appreciate it more than my older one does. It is one of those rare opportunities that you get, so I thought I'd jump at it."