I also prefer to go by what's in the episodes, rather than go by some faraway pronouncement by the producers because plans can change at the drop of a hat.
After season 1 and during season 2, I had thought that Chloe would be the person who knew his secret, but died because she knew his secret, thus convincing Clark that if he were to make his presence known in the world, he'd have to assume a heroic identity and a secret identity which would...
For all we know, Chloe could have gone into witness protection, and a change in hair color isn't out of the realm of possibility.
The actress, Adrianne Palicki, is in the stable of the WB, she'll be playing Judy Robinson in an update to "Lost In Space" which is under development.
I don't think Chloe's dead, but everyone will think she is, and perhaps this is how her "Lois Lane" identity/career gets started... I think in this incarnation of the Superman mythos, Chloe becomes Lois the Daily Planet reporter, etc. This is just part of that new take on the mythos.
Damn, is Chloe and her father toast? Lionel looked lean and mean with the close shaved look now. Lex tumbles into glass tables like no other. Bon Voyage, Lana. Jonathan, is his time up? Martha, signs, anyone? Clark, getting edumacated.