Not long after the exciting announcement that Henry Cavill would return as Superman, he announced tonight he’s again leaving the role.
The news hasn’t even set in yet since the major announcement that Cavill would be leaving the titular role for Netflix’s The Witcher in October, but Wednesday, Henry Cavill revealed he would not return to the role of Superman in the upcoming DCEU helmed by James Gunn and Peter Safran. This comes as a huge surprise given Henry Cavill announced his red-caped return, DC’s recent Black Adam post-credits scene, and a Tweet announcing his return made from Black Adam himself, Dwayne Johnson. The announcement was made by Cavill himself on Instagram.
“I just had a meeting with James Gunn and Peter Safran, and it’s sad news, everyone, explained Cavill. “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.”
He continued with “My turn to wear the cape has passed,” in the emotional message. The revamping of the DCEU has decided to move on without Wonder Woman 3, and now The Man Of Steel. James Gunn also Tweeted a statement regarding the direction of the new Superman film, along with “a DC slate ready to go” perspective on the DCEU future without Henry Cavill.
In a Twitter thread, Gunn reveals numerous tidbits about the DCEU including:
- The new Superman will be written by James Gunn.
- The new Superman will be a younger version, but not an origin story.
- The film doesn’t have a director.
- They want Ben Affleck to direct, and are searching for the “right project.”
As big as this news is, fans wanting to stay in the loop can simply follow Henry Cavill on Instagram, or @JamesGunn on Twitter for news as it develops.
