Well, here’s a shocker… Warner Bros. has announced that Jesse Eisenberg (The Social Network, Now You See Me) has been cast as Superman’s arch-nemesis Lex Luthor in the upcoming Man of Steel sequel, with Jeremy Irons (Die Hard with a Vengeance, The Borgias) will play Batman’s trusty butler and father figure Alfred Pennyworth.
“Lex Luthor is often considered the most notorious of Superman’s rivals, his unsavoury reputation preceding him since 1940,” said Snyder on Eisenberg’s casting. “What’s great about Lex is that he exists beyond the confines of the stereotypical nefarious villain. He’s a complicated and sophisticated character whose intellect, wealth and prominence position him as one of the few mortals able to challenge the incredible might of Superman. Having Jesse in the role allows us to explore that interesting dynamic, and also take the character in some new and unexpected directions.”
Snyder also went on to speak about the addition of Jeremy Irons, stating that: “As everyone knows, Alfred is Bruce Wayne’s most trusted friend, ally and mentor, a noble guardian and father figure. He is an absolutely critical element in the intricate infrastructure that allows Bruce Wayne to transform himself into Batman. It is an honor to have such an amazingly seasoned and gifted actor as Jeremy taking on the important role of the man who mentors and guides the guarded and nearly impervious façade that encapsulates Bruce Wayne.”
Eisenberg’s casting brings to an end intense speculation about who might play Superman’s best-known foe, and pretty much debunks any rumours about Breaking Bad’s Bryan Cranston having Warner’s choice for the role (and cast in a thirty-five picture deal or whatever it was). Anyway, let us know your thoughts on these two additions in the comments below…
Update – Here’s a video interview from Total Film back in October, where Eisenberg looks a little uncomfortable when the subject of Batman vs. Superman and Lex Luthor is brought up….
Batman vs. Superman is set for release on May 6th 2016, with a cast that includes Henry Cavill (Superman), Ben Affleck (Batman), Gal Gadot (Wonder Woman), Amy Adams (Lois Lane), Diane Lane (Martha Kent), and Lawrence Fishburne (Perry White).
Originally published January 31, 2014. Updated April 11, 2018.
