Celebrity News

Henry Cavill confirms he’s not returning to DC as Superman

Henry Cavill made a splash when he revealed that he would play Superman again, the most recognizable character in comic books.

His appearance in Dwayne Johnson’s Black Adam corroborated his claim.

According to James Gunn, one of the two new heads of DC Studios, Cavill would not be making a comeback.

Additionally, Gunn shared the announcement after revealing that DC was producing a new Superman project.

The announcement

In a series of tweets, James Gunn updated fans on DC’s progress.

“Peter & I have a DC slate ready to go, which we couldn’t be more over-the-moon about,” he started.

“We’ll be able to share some exciting information about our first new projects at the beginning of the new year.”

“Among the slate is Superman,” Gunn continued.

“In the initial stages, our story will be focusing on an earlier part of Superman’s life, so the character will not be played by Henry Cavill.”

As they read the news, those following Henry Cavill since Man of Steel in 2013 felt their stomachs turn.

It wasn’t all bad because Gunn left a ray of hope.

“But we had just a great meeting with Henry and we’re big fans and we talked about a number of exciting possibilities to work together in the future.”

Read also: Avatar: The Way of Water, better than the first

Cavill confirms grim news

On his Instagram page, Henry Cavill wrote a letter notifying fans of the horrific news that touched thousands, if not millions, of individuals.

“I have just had a meeting with James Gun and Peter Safran and it’s sad news, everyone,” Cavill began.

“I will, after all, not be returning as Superman.”

“After being told by the studio to announce my return back in October, prior to their hire, this news isn’t the easiest, but that’s life.”

“The changing of the guard is something that happens. I respect that.”

“James and Peter have a universe to build. I wish them and all involved with the new universe the best of luck, and the happiest of fortunes.”

Henry Cavill urged supporters to retain their enthusiasm in a classic Superman way.

“For those who have been by my side through the years… we can mourn for a bit, but then we must remember… Superman is still around.”

“Everything he stands for still exists, and the examples he sets for us are still there!”

“My turn to wear the cape has passed, but what Superman stands for never will. It’s been a fun ride with you all, onwards and upwards.”

The Witcher

Two months after declaring his final appearance as Geralt of Rivia for the third season of the Netflix series, Henry Cavill announced his departure as the Man of Steel.

Liam Hemsworth was cast in the role, and Cavill approved it.

The British actor spoke in favor of Hemsworth’s takeover in a letter:

“As with the greatest of literary characters, I pass the torch with reverence for the time spent embodying Geralt and enthusiasm to see Liam’s take on this most fascinating and nuanced of men.”

Read also: Henry Cavill takes to Instagram to announce his return as Superman

Reaction

Twitter erupted when Gunn said that Henry Cavill wouldn’t reprise his role as the “big blue boy scout” because viewers were looking forward to seeing him go up against Black Adam and Darkseid.

One user wrote:

“I was so devastated by henry cavill leaving the witcher but now even more devastated he’s out on two roles he absolutely loved.”

“Truly tho [sic] what a sad night and one of the unfortunate eras for a Superman actor,” wrote another.

“Absolutely just disheartening and just unbelievable, and I can’t believe it happened, but Henry Cavill, u will always be our Superman, and we’ll miss you.”

A third chimed in, saying:

“Henry Cavill is Superman. He loves the character. He’s perfect for the role. The fans love him.”

“I have no idea how they possibly think it’s a good idea to not continue with him. Unbelievable. So much untapped potential. Hope has officially been lost.”

Cavill’s announcement was lamented by a fan, who pointed out that his herculean frame gave him the Superman look:

“It’s to bad Henry Cavill is no longer superman, it feels like they only scratch the surface of what he could do with the character.”

“The man looked incredible as Superman.”

One Twitter user believed it was hilariously stupid of the studio to let him leave the role before having him announce his comeback.

“Completely fine with both Henry Cavill staying and going as Superman,” he wrote.

“But my god, not only having him return and officially address it, but basically running a subliminal marketing campaign around said return, only to fire him 6 weeks later, is so hilariously stupid.”

Others complied with the circumstance because they saw how important commerce was to the existence of the entertainment sector.

“So, Henry Cavill is Superman no more. I’m devastated. But it is what it is. It’s not called Show friends, it’s called Show business,” they wrote.

“I’m interested what @JamesGunn and Paul does for DC Studios. Start with a clean slate is great.”

Another person wrote in agreement:

“Damn. It sucks we lost Henry Cavill as Superman but I’m super excited to see what James Gunn has cooked up.”

References:

James Gunn’s official Twitter thread

Henry Cavill reveals he’s done as Superman after being ‘told to announce his return’: ‘My turn to wear the cape has passed’

DC fans “devastated” that Henry Cavill is out again as Superman

DC Studios gets two heads: James Gunn and Peter Safran

Image source: Variety

DC Studios officially names James Gunn and Peter Safran as new co-chairs and CEOs after Warner Bros. Discovery’s search for Walter Hamada’s replacement.

DC Studios

The announcement puts Gunn and Safran as heads that oversee all future DC production.

Their additional responsibilities include plotting the decade-long roadmap for DC projects in film, television, and animation.

Gunn and Safran will ensure that each project is under the same banner.

DC Extended Universe

In August, the Batgirl movie was canceled despite being already in post-production.

The decision came from the renewal of Warner Bros. Discovery of their essential IPs after the company’s merging.

The merger was the reason former DC Films president Walter Hamada resigned from his position.

The new roles of James Gunn and Peter Safran fill the void left by Hamada’s departure.

Read also: Dwayne Johnson’s Black Adam is an explosive addition to the DC universe

 

James Gunn

Gunn came to DC when he took over The Suicide Squad, which earned him critical and fans praise.

The film’s success led to the Peacemaker series, which was equally successful.

Both projects reached milestones that gave it the go-ahead for the second season of Peacemaker.

A spin-off series from Viola Davis’ Amanda Waller is also in the works.

James Gunn’s new role at DC Studios allows him to oversee DC Films and pave the way for a more cohesive universe.

Peter Safran

Safran has been producing DC projects for several years, namely Aquaman and Shazam!

Both films achieved box office success as DC attempted to move away from the Snyderverse.

Peter Safran also served as executive producer of Gunn’s Peacemaker and produced The Suicide Squad.

He is currently producing upcoming titles like Shazam! Fury of the Gods, Blue Beetle, and Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom.

Read also: Henry Cavill takes to Instagram to announce his return as Superman

 

Gunn and Safran’s roles in DC Studios

As Co-Chairs and CEOs, Gunn and Safran will report directly to Warner Bros. Discovery President and CEO David Zaslav.

They will also work closely with Mike De Luca and Pam Abdy, the co-presidents and CEOs of the Warner Bros. Film Group.

Zaslav is excited to be working with the two in their new roles, saying:

“DC has among the most entertaining, powerful, and iconic characters in the world.”

“I am thrilled to have the singular and complementary talents of James and Peter joining our world-class team and overseeing the creative direction of the storied DC Universe.”

Zaslav highlights their experience, close ties with creative communities and track records with fans as achievements that have helped them secure their positions.

Reference:

James Gunn & Peter Safran named heads of DC Studios