For a look way ahead at this season of Smallville, we encourage fans to read what producer Brian Peterson recently had to say. He spills a lot on the storylines and developments to come.

But let's focus on Friday's new episode for a moment. On "Charade," Gil Bellows guest stars as Maxwell Lord, a dangerous Checkmate agent. He makes major trouble for Lois and Clark.

Check out a clip from the hour below, as Chloe tries to understand what's going on with Clark:

[video url="http://www.tvfanatic.com/videos/clip-from-charade/" title="Clip from Charade"] [/video]

Meanwhile, E! Online asked Peterson about a possible, eventual return of Michael Rosenbaum on Smallville. Said the show runner:

"We have never ever given up hope, but at this point, that's all it is. We have a great relationship with Michael; it just hasn't happened yet. I would never give up hope until the final second."

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.