Superman: Legacy - 10 actors who could be cast as lead

10 Actors Who Could Bring the Legacy of Superman to Life in James Gunn
10 Actors Who Could Bring the Legacy of Superman to Life in James Gunn's New DCU Film (Image via DC Comics)

Superman is one of history's most recognizable and revered figures, and now James Gunn plans to revive the Man of Steel for the big screen. Superhero culture constantly changes as new actors assume legendary roles and breathe fresh life into familiar characters.

According to co-CEO Peter Safran, the forthcoming movie Superman: Legacy will center on the Man of Steel combining his Kryptonian background with his human upbringing. Besides symbolizing kindness in a society that believes compassion to be outmoded, the character represents truth, justice, and the American way.

Safran also indicated that the movie would not be an origin story but a continuation of the character's narrative. Even so, he shared the optimism that James Gunn might be persuaded to helm the movie.

Despite earlier reports to the contrary, Gunn claimed that Henry Cavill was never really cast as Superman in the DC Extended Universe, declaring that he and the producers would now choose the Superman actor based on who they thought would be the best fit. When Gunn completes the script in the latter part of 2023, the actor who will play Clark Kent is anticipated to be revealed.

Disclaimer: This article reflects the author's opinions, which is purely subjective by nature.


David Corenswet, Matt Bomer, and 8 other actors who could bring new energy to the eponymous superhero in Superman: Legacy

1) Jacob Elordi

Rising star Jacob Elordi is a fitting choice for the next Clark Kent (Image via Getty)
Rising star Jacob Elordi is a fitting choice for the next Clark Kent (Image via Getty)

As the rising Hollywood star, who has already shown his acting prowess in notable projects like The Kissing Booth and Euphoria, Jacob Elordi has the perfect appearance and body to play Clark Kent.

The actor has an appealing charm, like a boy next door, which has become a trademark for previous interpretations of the character. Moreover, Elordi possesses an acting range to communicate the emotionality and depth necessary for the part.


2) Sam Claflin

Sam Claflin is a versatile actor whose physical attributes makes him perfect to play the role of Clark Kent (Image via Getty)
Sam Claflin is a versatile actor whose physical attributes makes him perfect to play the role of Clark Kent (Image via Getty)

Sam Claflin first gained popularity for his role in the Pirates of the Caribbean and The Hunger Games films. However, he has since established himself as a versatile actor who can take on any role.

Claflin has the physical characteristics to pull off a believable Clark Kent/Superman role, thanks to his towering stature and sculpted jawline. Moreover, The Hunger Games actor possesses the acting skills and charm necessary to give the role additional dimensions of complexity and delicacy.


3) Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer is the classic choice for Clark Kent with the charm and depth to bring the character to life (Image via Michael Tran)
Matt Bomer is the classic choice for Clark Kent with the charm and depth to bring the character to life (Image via Michael Tran)

Matt Bomer possesses the good looks and charisma necessary to play Clark Kent. Besides his skill and experience that would enable him to give the character depth, Bomer has the acting range and charm required to provide the role with additional dimensions of complexity and delicacy.


4) Fionn Whitehead

Fionn Whitehead proves size doesn't matter in the race for the red and blue suit (Image via Missing Link Films)
Fionn Whitehead proves size doesn't matter in the race for the red and blue suit (Image via Missing Link Films)

Despite not being the physically largest among other entries on this list, Whitehead has excelled in prestigious roles such as Dunkirk, demonstrating both his talent and work ethic. Whitehead is a credible contender for the part of a young Clark Kent due to his wide acting range and commanding presence on film. He can give the character new depth and make the role his own.


5) Adam DiMarco

Adam DiMarco is a solid choice for the role of Superman since he has a growing list of TV appearances (Image via Getty)
Adam DiMarco is a solid choice for the role of Superman since he has a growing list of TV appearances (Image via Getty)

Adam DiMarco has a strong history of TV appearances, and his recent lead role in The White Lotus tends to make him a strong contender for the Superman role. He possesses the acting skills and charm necessary to play Clark Kent convincingly and breathe fresh life into the Man of Steel role.


6) Chris Pratt

Action hero Chris Pratt is an ideal fit for Clark Kent's action-packed role (Image via Marvel Studios)
Action hero Chris Pratt is an ideal fit for Clark Kent's action-packed role (Image via Marvel Studios)

Chris Pratt is a well-suited choice for the character of Clark Kent because of his track record in action-packed films in Hollywood. The Guardians of the Galaxy actor is a strong candidate for the job due to his background working on high-profile movies and his captivating on-screen persona. He can infuse the role with vitality and enthusiasm and make it uniquely his own.


7) Henry Golding

Henry Golding has the looks and talent to bring a new energy to the Man of Steel (Image via Netflix)
Henry Golding has the looks and talent to bring a new energy to the Man of Steel (Image via Netflix)

Henry Golding might give Superman a new lease on life with his attractive appearance and strong acting abilities. With roles in well-known Hollywood movies, he has demonstrated his versatility as an actor.

Moreover, Golding possesses the screen presence necessary to do the character right. He has the charm and acting ability to give the character a fresh dimension and personalize the role.


8) Taron Egerton

Taron Egerton is a household name who can tackle both action and drama as Superman (Image via Getty)
Taron Egerton is a household name who can tackle both action and drama as Superman (Image via Getty)

Taron Egerton has demonstrated his ability to handle drama and action - two essential elements of playing Superman. The Welsh actor has gained fame for his roles in Kingsman and Rocketman.

Moreover, Egerton possesses the acting talent and physique needed to successfully portray the Man of Steel and give the role a fresh infusion of zest and drive.


9) Diego Calva

Diego Calva is the rising star with the potential to bring new energy to the Man of Steel (Image via Getty)
Diego Calva is the rising star with the potential to bring new energy to the Man of Steel (Image via Getty)

Calva is rapidly establishing a name for himself in Hollywood, and his on-screen appearance in Superman: Legacy may prove to be his breakthrough role. As a talented actor, he looks capable enough to portray Clark Kent credibly and breathe fresh life into the Superman character. Furthermore, his on-screen presence could make him a great fit for the red and blue suit.


10) David Corenswet

The next Superman? David Corenswet's growing resume says it could be (Image via Getty)
The next Superman? David Corenswet's growing resume says it could be (Image via Getty)

David Corenswet could be the upcoming big thing in Hollywood with his growing list of prominent roles in films and shows such as Pearl, Look Both Ways, We Own This City, among others. As the future Superman, he has the potential to become a household name. Due to his acting prowess and suave good looks, Corenswet is a serious candidate for the part.


Final thoughts

In the upcoming film Superman: Legacy, any of the above-listed actors may give the legendary character of Clark Kent a unique perspective. There are countless choices, from renowned performers such as Chris Pratt and Taron Egerton to up-and-coming Hollywood talents like Jacob Elordi and David Corenswet.

Every actor is a strong candidate for the next Man of Steel role since they each bring their unique skills, physical characteristics, and charisma to the part. Fans can be confident that the next film will be an exciting new chapter in the DC universe with James Gunn at the helm. Moreover, with the movie's July 11, 2025, release date quickly approaching, fans won't have to wait too long to find out which actor will play the new Superman.

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Edited by Priya Majumdar
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