James Gunn is getting down to business regarding casting Superman: Legacy. Now, we finally have a glimpse into that process.
The Hollywood Reporter broke the news that the rumored Superman casting could go to David Corenswet or Nicholas Hoult. Corenswet is reportedly a top contender. The actor is best known for playing the projectionist opposite Mia Goth in last year’s Pearl.
As for Hoult, his casting news is a bit more interesting. Not only is he a contender for the role of Superman, but THR notes he could play Lex Luthor, the main antagonist to the Man of Steel.
Hoult’s name had swirled DC Studios for quite some time, as he was even a contender for Matt Reeves’ The Batman before that went to Robert Pattinson. Given the actor’s range, many fans already see him in either the Superman or Lex role.
Jacob Elordi and Andrew Richardson are also rumored to be in the running for Clark Kent. Elordi plays the infamously evil Nate Jacobs on Euphoria, while Richardson is best known for his work on the stage.
Moving onto Lois Lane, Gunn has many actresses vying for the role. Per The Hollywood Reporter, Emma Mackey, Rachel Brosnahan, Phoebe Dynevor, and Samara Weaving are all running for the position. Emma Mackey stars in Sex Education on Netflix and will soon appear in Barbie, Phoebe Dynevor is best known for her time on Bridgerton, and horror fans know Samara Weaving from Ready or Not and the recent Scream 6.
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’s Rachel Brosnahan reportedly had a stellar audition but could be out of the age range as Gunn is reportedly going for a “twentysomethings in Metropolis” vibe.
THR does note that none of this has been confirmed, with some sources saying some of these names haven’t been tested and are only in the conversation. In a recent tweet, Gunn says no one has been cast in the film besides someone who “isn’t any of the regular players in the Superman world.” Another source tells the outlet that “the filmmakers and studio are nowhere near a decision.”
For all of you asking, I would never comment on who is or isn’t AUDITIONING for a role. That’s the actor’s business only & isn’t something I’d make public unless they did it first after the fact (like @GlennHowerton or @ZacharyLevi having auditioned for Star-Lord & being top…
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) May 13, 2023
The official synopsis states Superman: Legacy “tells the story of Superman’s journey to reconcile his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing as Clark Kent of Smallville, Kansas. He is the embodiment of truth, justice, and the American way, guided by human kindness in a world that sees kindness as old-fashioned.”
Superman: Legacy is scheduled to open in theaters on July 11th, 2025.
Originally published May 14, 2023. Updated May 16, 2023.
