While Lex Luthor is away, Tess Mercer has been acting as CEO for Luthercorp on Smallville.  TVGuide recently had a chance to sit down with the beautiful Cassidy Freeman, the actress behind Tess Mercer.  Just what did Tess say about joining such an establish cast and did she give away any Smallville spoilers?

TVGuide.com: Why do you think Tess is keeping Oliver at arm's length? Is it because he hurt her that badly in the past, or because she's afraid of hurting him in the future? Maybe he doesn't quite realize what she has become?
Freeman: I think she's made her decisions born out of her hurt. Their relationship was not a normal one in that it wasn't like they met at a party and dated for a while. They came out of grief together. When someone who has been through that with you hurts you, it's very difficult to trust them again.

TVGuide.com: Is it a bummer to be working for Lex Luthor but not acting opposite Michael Rosenbaum?
Freeman: Absolutely. You can't believe the wonderful stories I have heard about him. It's a great role to take on, but it is a bit of a tease.

TVGuide.com: Do you think we might see — or hear from — Lex at some point this season?
Freeman: I hope so, but I honestly don't know. If it was up to me, yes!

TVGuide.com: How was it joining a show that's been on the air for several years?
Freeman: I was very excited to get to know how it all works. As long as you come in with a respect for the fact that they've been there for that time without you, and that you're there to add onto something that's already great, it's an incredible opportunity to meet a "family." They were very welcoming to me as the "new kid." We all hang out outside of the set, so that's nice.

TVGuide.com: Care to share one last Tess tease?
Freeman: She likes to get in fights — and there will be a few more in her future!

You can read the rest of the interview at TV Guide.

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