Henry Cavill first wore the iconic cape in 2013 when he made his debut as Clark Kent, aka Superman, in the movie Man of Steel.
James Gunn directed Superman is one of the highly anticipated films of 2025. Releasing on July 11, the new movie will introduce David Corenswet as the new Man of Steel, a role that was long associated with Henry Cavill. He first wore the iconic cape in 2013 when he made his debut as Clark Kent, aka Superman, in the movie Man of Steel.
The British actor went on to reprise his role as the superhero in 2016’s Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice, 2017’s Justice League and 2021’s Zack Snyder cut of Justice League. Fans loved him in the role, and even the actor thought he would continue to wear the cape of Superman. But he was replaced by David in the 2025 film.
The big change happened when the Guardians of the Galaxy director James Gunn and the Aquaman producer Peter Safran took over the mantle of the DC universe. In October 2022, they were named the co-CEOs of DC Studios to start the iconic universe from scratch. In the following weeks, they also decided to either scrap or put on hold several previously announced DC projects, including Gal Gadot’s Wonder Woman 3 and Cavill’s Superman.
Why is Henry Cavill not returning as Superman?
In 2021, Henry spoke with The Hollywood Reporter and shared that there was still a lot to tell about the superhero character. He said, “As I always say, the cape is still in the closet.” He even made a surprising cameo in Dwayne Johnson’s Black Adam. But as it turned out, he never had a written contract with the studios. The actor only had a verbal agreement for future projects as Superman.
In December 2022, Henry shared the heartbreaking news with his fans, informing them that he wouldn’t be returning as Superman. In an emotional note posted on Instagram, he wrote, “I have just had a meeting with James Gunn and Peter Safran, and it’s sad news, everyone. I will, after all, not be returning as Superman.”
He added, “After being told by the studio to announce my return back in October, before their hire, this news isn’t the easiest, but that’s life.” The Witcher actor concluded his message, saying, “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.”
Around the same time, James Gunn shared that because the new Superman movie will focus “on an earlier part of Superman’s life,” Henry wasn’t suitable for playing the part. That’s why they needed someone younger than him. However, Peter Safran told the Hollywood Reporter that the 2025 film wasn’t an origin story of the superhero, rather it will focus on him “balancing his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing.” Furthermore, the director also later clarified that Henry was never “fired” from the 2025 movie because he was never cast in the first place.