Recently-appointed DC Studios co-head James Gunn has confirmed that a new Superman film is currently in the works as part of the revamped DC Universe. The feature will take place during an "earlier part" of the Man of Steel's life and, as such, will not star Henry Cavill in the lead role."[Fellow DC Studios co-head Peter Safran and] I have a DC slate ready to go, which we couldn't be more over-the-moon about; we'll be able to share some exciting information about our first projects at the beginning of the new year," Gunn wrote on Twitter. "Among those on the slate is Superman. 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." That said, Gunn did not rule out Cavill potentially returning to DC down the road. "[W]e just had 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," he wrote.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Gunn himself is currently writing the new Superman film. He could also potentially direct it, depending on how busy he is with his other responsibilities at DC Studios. Insiders say that while this new film will feature a younger Clark Kent, it will not take place in the Last Son of Krypton's adopted hometown of Smallville. Rather, Clark will already be working as a reporter at the Daily Planet in Metropolis.
THR also reports that Gunn and Safran have met with Ben Affleck -- known for his role as Batman in the DCU -- about potentially directing a film as part of the interconnected franchise. However, "[n]o deal is in place for him to helm a DC feature at this stage." Gunn and Safran have reportedly also had conversations with Patty Jenkins, despite the director no longer moving forward on the third Wonder Woman film.
Henry Cavill Reacts to His Non-Reprisal as Superman
Meanwhile, Cavill himself has taken to social media to address his latest exit as Superman. "I have just had a meeting with James Gunn and Peter Safran and it's sad news, everyone," Cavill wrote in a post to Instagram. "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."
The actor continued, "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."
Man of Steel 2 Was Not Meant to Be
Cavill first portrayed Kal-El/Clark Kent/Superman in 2013's Man of Steel. He subsequently reprised the role in 2016's Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice and 2017's Justice League. Following an extended absence from the DCU (his appearance in Zack Snyder's Justice League not withstanding), Cavill finally donned the cape again for a mid-credit cameo in Black Adam, which hit theaters this past October. The Monday after the film released, Cavill announced that he was officially back as Superman.
According to a separate recent report by THR, Cavill was not incorrect at the time. The outlet explains that Warner Bros. and DC were "indeed developing a sequel for 2013's Man of Steel and actively meeting with writers." However, development on Man of Steel 2 halted once Gunn and Safran took the helm and began concocting their new road map for the DCU. As Gunn mentioned in his tweets, fans can expect to learn more about this new direction in 2023.
Source: Twitter (1, 2, 3); The Hollywood Reporter; Instagram