Superman: Legacy is one of the most anticipated movies in the DC Universe, as it marks the beginning of a new era for the iconic superhero. Directed and written by James Gunn, who previously helmed Suicide Squad and Guardians of the Galaxy, Superman: Legacy promises to be a fresh and exciting take on the Man of Steel’s origin and heritage. Here are some of the key facts and rumors about the movie that you should know before it hits theaters in 2025.
Who is playing Superman?
One of the biggest questions surrounding Superman: Legacy is who will wear the red cape and blue suit of Clark Kent, aka Superman. Henry Cavill, who played the role in Man of Steel, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, and Justice League, has officially retired from the part and will not be returning for Gunn’s movie. Instead, Gunn is looking for a younger actor to portray a 20-something version of Kent, who is already working as a reporter at the Daily Planet.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, David Corenswet, who starred in Pearl and The Politician, is among the top contenders for the role, and has advanced to the screen test stage. Other names that have been mentioned in the mix are Tom Brittney (Grantchester), Andrew Richardson (The Spanish Princess), and Jacob Elordi (Euphoria), although it is unclear if they are still in contention or have dropped out.
Who are the other cast members?
Superman: Legacy will also feature some of the most iconic characters from the Superman lore, such as Lois Lane, Lex Luthor, and Jimmy Olsen. For Lane, the spunky and fearless journalist who becomes Kent’s love interest and partner, Gunn has reportedly auditioned several actresses, including Emma Mackey (Sex Education), Rachel Brosnahan (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel), Phoebe Dynevor (Bridgerton), and Samara Weaving (Scream VI). However, it is not known who has made it to the final round or who is Gunn’s favorite.
For Luthor, the bald-headed genius and arch-nemesis of Superman, there seems to be only one name on Gunn’s mind: Nicholas Hoult. The British actor, who starred in Renfield and Mad Max: Fury Road, has been tipped to play the villainous role. Hoult was also a runner-up for Batman in Matt Reeves’ movie, which went to Robert Pattinson.
As for Olsen, the young photographer and friend of Kent and Lane at the Daily Planet, no names have been revealed yet. However, some fans have speculated that Gunn might cast one of his Guardians of the Galaxy stars for the part, as he has done with other DC projects.
What is the plot of Superman: Legacy?
Superman: Legacy will explore how Kent’s dual heritage - his aristocratic Kryptonian parents and his humble Kansas farmer parents - shapes his identity and his choices as a superhero. Gunn has said that he wants to focus on “the human side” of Superman and how he deals with “the responsibility of being Earth’s protector.”
The movie will also feature some action-packed scenes involving Luthor’s schemes and other threats from outer space. Gunn has teased that he will use some of his signature humor and style to make the movie fun and entertaining.
When will Superman: Legacy be released?
Superman: Legacy is scheduled to be in theaters on July 11, 2025. It will be the first movie in Gunn and Peter Safran’s new slate of DC projects, which includes two Batman movies, Wonder Woman 3, Aquaman 2, The Flashpoint Paradox, Green Lantern Corps, Shazam! Fury of the Gods, Black Adam, and Suicide Squad 2.
Superman: Legacy is expected to be a blockbuster hit that will launch a new phase for the DC Universe. Fans are eagerly waiting to see who will be cast as Superman and how Gunn will reinvent the character for a new generation.