Superman: Legacy casting choices for Clark Kent and Lois Lane are reportedly narrowing down to a few contenders. However, writer and director James Gunn might have only one actor in mind for the role of Superman villain Lex Luthor: Nicholas Hoult.
Superman: Legacy is set to be the first feature film in Gunn's new DC Universe franchise. As such, casting choices for the iconic roles of Superman, Lois Lane, and Lex Luthor have been of interest to DC fans. Now, a shortlist of actors for these important roles has surfaced.
The Hollywood Reporter sources say The Politician star David Corenswet is the top contender to play Superman. Corenswet, who recently played the projectionist who falls victim to Mia Goth's eponymous character in Pearl, is reportedly advancing to the screen test stage that will likely take place in late May or early June. Two other actors might also be contenders, but their identities remain unknown to THR. Actors who were in the early mix include Tom Brittney and Andrew Richardson. Superman: Legacy casting rumors listed Jacob Elordi as a possible contender for the Superman role, but THR sources say he never submitted himself for consideration.
Contenders for the role of Lois Lane include Emma Mackey (who stars in Margot Robbie's Barbie movie), The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel star Rachel Brosnahan, Bridgerton star Phoebe Dynevor, and Scream 6 star Samara Weaving. At this point, THR does not know who is advancing to the screen test stage, but Brosnahan reportedly delivered an "outstanding" audition. However, because she is 32, Brosnahan may be too old for Gunn's plan to focus on 20-something-year-old characters. Meanwhile, Hoult is reportedly the only actor "earmarked" to play Lex Luthor. Furthermore, Superman: Legacy is looking to cast several more "DC heroes" who will be introduced in the film.
THR cautions that not all the forenamed actors are screen testing, as they were only names in the mix. One insider dismissed some of the names as a "chatroom list," and another said the filmmakers and studio "are nowhere near a decision." Warner Bros. reportedly had no comment.
Zack Snyder's dark take on the Man of Steel was far from the optimistic symbol of hope many fans are used to. Consequently, many fans wonder if Gunn can change Superman for the better. Casting the right actors for Superman and Lois Lane will be an important step, but the writing is also crucial. After all, even some people who criticized Henry Cavill's Superman admitted he would have been a good choice for the role had the written material reflected the comic book character more. Fortunately, Gunn is receiving praise for balancing heart and humor in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, so most fans are now looking forward to seeing what he has planned for Superman: Legacy.
Superman: Legacy is currently scheduled to premiere in theaters on July 11, 2025.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter