James Gunn is writing a new Superman film, and Henry Cavill won't return
James Gunn confirms he is writing a new Superman film about a younger Man of Steel, and Henry Cavill confirms he will not return to the role.
On 14 December 2022, the Superman story took a sharp turn. James Gunn, six weeks into running DC Studios, confirmed he was writing a brand-new Superman film, and Henry Cavill confirmed he would not be part of it.
What we know
Gunn explained that the new film would look at an earlier stage of Superman’s life, which meant casting someone new rather than continuing with Cavill, who had played the role since Man of Steel (2013). Gunn and Peter Safran said they had met Cavill and discussed possible future work together.
Cavill shared the news himself on Instagram the same day. He wrote that he had been asked to announce his return in October, before the new studio heads arrived, and he wished the new team well. Many fans were dismayed, and the reaction online was loud, but both sides kept their public statements gracious.
Why it matters
This was the first concrete step towards the film that became Superman (2025), and the beginning of the search that led to David Corenswet. For the full line-up of Men of Steel, see our guide to every actor who has played Superman, and our Superman films in order.
From the archive: written in November 2026 from the original reporting linked below.
Questions
Why didn't Henry Cavill return as Superman?
James Gunn's new film was planned around a younger Superman earlier in his career, so DC Studios chose to recast the role.
When did Henry Cavill leave the role of Superman?
He confirmed his exit on 14 December 2022.
Original reporting
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