James Gunn, the director of the new Superman movie, recently opened up about how Henry Cavill reacted when he was told he would no longer play the iconic superhero. Cavill, who played Superman in several DC films, was replaced by David Corenswet for the 2025 reboot. Gunn described the situation as “terrible” and “unfair” to Cavill but praised the actor for handling the news with grace.
The Confusing Announcement That Surprised Everyone
Gunn explained that when he and Peter Safran were finalizing their deal to take over DC Studios in 2022, Warner Bros. suddenly announced that Cavill would return as Superman. This came as a shock because Gunn already had plans to recast the role for a younger version of the character.
“The day our deal closed, all of a sudden, they were announcing that Henry was back. And I was like, ‘What is going on? We know what the plan is. The plan was to come in and do Superman.’ It was really unfair to him and a total bummer.”
The confusion happened because different groups at Warner Bros. had conflicting visions for DC’s future. Gunn said the previous leadership made decisions without aligning with the new direction he and Safran were planning.
How Henry Cavill Took the News
Gunn and Safran met with Cavill to explain that he wouldn’t be returning as Superman. Despite the disappointing news, Cavill remained professional.
“He was an absolute gentleman and a great guy about it. He said, ‘The only thing I ask is that I’m able to reveal it myself as opposed to coming from you guys.’ And I’m like, ‘That’s a class act.’”
Cavill later confirmed the news on Instagram, writing:
“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.”
Why David Corenswet Was Chosen as the New Superman
Gunn wanted a younger actor to play Superman in his new DC Universe. David Corenswet, known for his roles in Hollywood and The Politician, was cast as the new Clark Kent. At 32, he is a decade younger than Cavill, which fit Gunn’s vision of a younger Superman.
The decision was part of a larger reboot of the DC Universe, which also included recasting other major roles like Wonder Woman, with Gal Gadot also not returning. Gunn’s Superman movie, released on July 11, 2025, marks the start of a new era for DC films.
Could Henry Cavill Return to the DC Universe in Another Role?
Even though Cavill is no longer Superman, Gunn hasn’t ruled out working with him again.
“I talked to him about it on that day. I would love to put Henry in something.”
Fans have speculated about Cavill playing other DC characters, but nothing has been confirmed yet.
The Future of the DC Universe Under James Gunn
Gunn’s Superman is the first film in DC’s new “Gods and Monsters” phase. The movie introduces a fresh cast, including Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. Early box office reports show the film has earned $273 million worldwide against a $225 million budget.
While Cavill’s time as Superman has ended, Gunn’s approach aims to rebuild the DC Universe with new stories and characters.
Also read: 11 Movies to Watch If You Loved James Gunn’s Superman
Credits: Sources include Deadline, Variety, NY Post, IndieWire, and The Independent.
