The DCU is being reworked by new co-heads James Gunn and Peter Safran. As a result, it looks like fans will be getting a new Superman movie – albeit without Henry Cavill.
This may be shocking for fans who expected Henry Cavill to return, especially given his cameo appearance in Black Adam. Of course, with a new DC slate being planned, it looks like James Gunn wants a movie featuring young Superman instead.
As you can see below, James Gunn shared as much on his Twitter account. He first began by revealing that he and Peter Safran “have a DC slate ready to go,” which they “couldn’t be more over-the-moon about.” He also notes that they’ll “share some exciting information about our first projects at the beginning of the new year.” One such project he was able to mention, however, is a movie “focusing on an earlier part of Superman’s life.”
This, he adds, means that “the character will not be played by Henry Cavill.”
Among those on the slate is Superman. In the initial stages, our story will be focusing on an earlier part of Superman’s life, so the character will not be played by Henry Cavill.
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) December 15, 2022
Furthermore, Henry Cavill shared the news regarding his departure on Instagram. Although he mentions that this is sad news, he knows that “the changing of the guard is something that happens.” As such, he wishes both James Gunn and Peter Safran, as well as “all involved with the new universe the best of luck, and the happiest of fortunes.” He continued to state that “Superman is still around,” as is everything he stands for.
The statement (which you can see below) reads:
“I have just had a meeting with James Gunn and Peter Safran and it’s sad news, everyone. I will, after all, not be returning as Superman. After being told by the studio to announce my return back in October, prior to their hire, this news isn’t the easiest, but that’s life. The changing of the guard is something that happens. I respect that. James and Peter have a universe to build. I wish them and all involved with the new universe the best of luck, and the happiest of fortunes.
For those who have been by my side through the years.. ..we can mourn for a bit, but then we must remember…. Superman is still around. Everything he stands for still exists, and the examples he sets for us are still there! My turn to wear the cape has passed, but what Superman stands for never will. It’s been a fun ride with you all, onwards and upwards.”
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James Gunn did add an additional post where he mentioned wanting to work with Henry Cavill on another project. But considering the finality in Cavill’s Instagram post, it seems unlikely that the project would be some other Superman film. As such, we’ll have to see what the new DCU can offer Henry Cavill and Superman fans as this new slate is announced.
Stay tuned to ScreenGeek for additional Superman movie updates as we have them.