James Gunn Reveals WB Wanted To Recast Henry Cavill’s Superman Earlier Than You Think

DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn has confirmed that Warner Bros. wanted him to recast Henry Cavill as the Man of Steel before 2021's The Suicide Squad and talks more about his approach to the Superman reboot.

via: Superhero Hype

In a new interview, Gunn discussed Warner Bros.’ early plans to recast Superman, his initial hesitation, and how his vision later took shape.

James Gunn confirmed to Entertainment Weekly that Warner Bros. intended to replace Henry Cavill as Superman even before he directed The Suicide Squad in 2021. “The studio wanted a new actor to play Superman after Cavill… so it was even more messy than it is now,” Gunn said.

Reports indicate Cavill was quietly dropped after refusing to film a cameo for Shazam! (2019). His return in Black Adam (2022) came only after Dwayne Johnson reportedly pushed for his inclusion, bypassing studio leadership. Despite a brief reappearance, Cavill’s involvement ended once Gunn and Peter Safran assumed control of DC Studios.

Upon taking over, Gunn made the final decision to recast. He said, “I wanted to tell the story about someone who was truly good in a world that doesn’t value goodness.” Gunn emphasized the story would focus on Superman’s values rather than powers, further signaling a shift from the previous portrayal.

David Corenswet now plays Superman in Gunn’s reboot. “David was the best Clark,” Gunn said, confirming a fresh direction for the character. Rachel Brosnahan plays Lois Lane, while Nicholas Hoult appears as Lex Luthor.

Cavill publicly acknowledged his exit in 2022 and later appeared in Deadpool & Wolverine in a brief parody role. The recast marks a significant shift from the Zack Snyder era of DC films, closing a chapter that began with Man of Steel (2013).

Superman, the first film in DC’s “Gods and Monsters” slate, premieres on July 11, 2025. It sets the foundation for a new continuity, starting with a younger version of Clark Kent at the Daily Planet.