Superman is a fictional superhero created by writer Jerry Siegel and artist Joe Shuster. He first appeared in Action Comics #1 in 1938 and quickly became one of the most recognisable and enduring characters in comic book history. Superman is the alter ego of Clark Kent, a Kryptonian who was sent to Earth as a baby and raised by Jonathan and Martha Kent in the fictional town of Smallville. Not just in comics but Superman is a popular franchise in entertainment history. Actor Henry Cavill is the most recent and most popular face of the century-old series. Soon, The Politician fame David Corenswet will be seen portraying the superhero.
David Corenswet
Director James Gunn recently took to his Twitter handle to inform the world about his decision of casting David Corenswet in the role of Superman for his upcoming film, Superman: Legacy. The American actor will replace the much-loved Henry Cavil to feature in the blue bodysuit with a red cape. James Gunn’s Superman: Legacy is scheduled for a release in 2025.
The upcoming film will uphold Superman as the defender of truth, justice, and the American way. He will be seen fighting fights to protect Earth from various threats. Previously Superman was shown fighting supervillains like Lex Luthor, General Zod, and Brainiac. As a founding member of the Justice League, Superman’s status as a superhero increases manifolds.
Twitter over the new cast
Soon after the news of the new Superman was made public, people on Twitter have been working on double shifts to raise their opinion on the matter. While some are upset over the change, as they believe Henry Cavill to be the Superman till the end of time, many are excited to see what David Corenswet will bring to the plate.
Henry Cavill will always be my Superman pic.twitter.com/FXnFSzO9Za
— Teej (@UsUnitedJustice) June 27, 2023
Superman over the years
Superman has appeared in numerous comic book series, graphic novels, animated adaptations, films, and television shows. He has become a cultural icon and a symbol of hope and heroism. In fact, several actors have portrayed the iconic superhero. Here are the actors who have played Superman over the years.
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Kirk Alyn
Kirk Alyn was the first actor to portray Superman in live-action. He played the character in the movie serials Superman (1948) and Atom Man vs. Superman (1950). Alyn’s portrayal set the foundation for future actors to follow.
George Reeves
George Reeves became widely recognised for his portrayal of Superman in the TV series Adventures of Superman (1952-1958). His performance solidified the image of Superman as a strong, virtuous hero for many viewers.
Christopher Reeve
Christopher Reeve is arguably the most iconic actor associated with Superman. He portrayed the superhero in the immensely popular film series that began with Superman (1978). Reeve’s portrayal was praised for capturing both the heroic strength and the humble humanity of Clark Kent. He continued in the role, for Superman II (1980), Superman III (1983), and Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (1987), leaving an indelible mark on the character.
John Haymes Newton and Gerard Christopher
The TV series Superboy (1988-1992) introduced two actors in the role of Superman. John Haymes Newton portrayed the young Clark Kent in the first season, while Gerard Christopher took over for the remaining seasons. The series explored Superman’s college years and early superhero experiences.
Dean Cain
Dean Cain played Superman in the TV series Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman (1993-1997). The show focused on the romantic relationship between Superman and Lois Lane, bringing a lighter and more comedic tone to the character.
Tom Welling
Tom Welling portrayed a young Clark Kent in the TV series Smallville (2001-2011). Although the show predominantly focused on Clark’s journey to becoming Superman, Welling’s portrayal resonated with fans as they witnessed the character’s growth and development.
Brandon Routh
Brandon Routh donned the Superman suit for the film Superman Returns (2006). The movie served as a continuation of the original Christopher Reeve films, paying homage to that era while introducing a fresh take on the character.
Henry Cavill
Henry Cavill is the most recent actor to portray Superman on the big screen. He played the superhero in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), starting with Man of Steel (2013), followed by Batman vs Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016) and Justice League (2017). Cavill’s portrayal showcased a more grounded and conflicted version of the character. He appeared again in Zack Snyder’s Justice League which was telecasted on HBO Max in March 2021.
It’s worth noting that animated adaptations have also featured various actors voicing Superman, including Tim Daly, George Newbern, and Jerry O’Connell, among others.
These actors have brought their own unique interpretations to the role of Superman, each contributing to the character’s enduring legacy and capturing the essence of the iconic superhero in their respective eras. Seeing David Corenswet as Superman will be exciting, cementing his status as one of the most beloved superheroes of all time.
