Henry Cavill's tenure as Superman came to an end rather unceremoniously despite his appearance in Black Adam. James Gunn plans on introducing a younger actor as the Man of Steel, although it won't be an origin story. This means actors in their 20s and early-30s are primed for the position.
There are several performers who can do justice to the role, which is a combination of their talents, their heights and appearances, and their distinct nature. With the race on for the next DCEU Superman, it's interesting to see the contenders who can become the recognizable face of the franchise as Henry Cavill was.
10 Nicholas Hoult Can Play A Slightly Older Superman
Nicholas Hoult is among the actors tapped to play the next James Bond, but he could take on another iconic role as the Man of Steel. Hoult is 33 years old, although his young looks can easily see him as someone in their mid-twenties convincingly.
Since the next Superman movie isn't going to be an origin story, Hoult would be the perfect person to appear as Clark Kent still in his younger years but old enough to be on his own. The actor has previously portrayed Beast in the X-Men movies, so he has prior experience with the superhero genre.
9 Jacob Elordi Has The Look Of A Younger Superman
Jacob Elordi is largely known as one of the actors in the Euphoria series, although he's also among the young prospects as a rising star. Elordi has a solid height and build, meaning he has the appearance required to play Superman without the need for too much training.
The actor is only 25, which will be the perfect age for the younger Superman that James Gunn is looking for. Moreover, Elordi's age can allow him to play the character for quite a long time, providing the DCEU with an actor who can be in it for over a decade.
8 David Corenswet Will Be A Distinct Choice For The Role
David Corenswet has a tall height which will suit the bill for the character, but he also has a lean physique that could see a different appearance for Superman. The actor has had more subtle performances in shows like The Politician, and such a style would be unique to the role.
Corenswet can bring a renewed outlook to the character, which won’t have to rely on Superman always showing off his strength. As such, viewers could see more focus on Clark Kent with Corenswet playing the part for a nice creative turn for the superhero.
7 Will Poulter Has The Talent To Transform Himself For A Role
Will Poulter will be one of the primary actors in Phase Five of the MCU as the person playing Adam Warlock in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. But since James Gunn plans on finishing that series up, Poulter can venture into the DCEU with Gunn.
Poulter has proven himself to be a versatile actor, as Adam Warlock is nothing like a character such as the one he played in We’re the Millers. He's transformed his physique for the Adam Warlock role, which is perfect to play Superman as well, even more so due to his tall frame.
6 Jace Norman Can Bring A Comedic Twist To Superman
Jace Norman has appeared in the comedy series Henry Danger as a sidekick to a hero, although he's the main character. As Norman has grown up, the actor has put on the appearance of a superhero, which can be completed by taking on the role of Superman.
James Gunn has always written roles with edgy humor, which Norman will be primed to portray with his talent in the comedic department. Although he's not particularly tall, Norman can bring a new outlook to the character which would place his personality as his prime appeal.
5 Wolfgang Novogratz Has The Classic Clark Kent Appearance
Wolfgang Novogratz looks just right to play Clark Kent at first glance, sharing a resemblance to Christopher Reeve. Novogratz has a great height and physique to go with being Superman, along with a young charm befitting the part.
Much like Henry Cavill was at the time, Novogratz can surprise viewers by being a relatively lesser-known actor who can burst onto the mainstream stage. He has all the tools needed to pull off playing the role, with James Gunn having the chance to come up with something new that fits Novogratz's talents.
4 Eli Goree Can Play A More Imposing Version Of Superman
Eli Goree is known for playing intimidating figures in shows like The 100 and Riverdale, owing to his incredible physique. He's done a splendid job at playing characters who can come across as imposing simply due to their presence, which is a great talent for Superman.
Goree is 25 years old, making him the right age to play Superman in his earlier years but also well enough into being Clark Kent as an upstart at the Daily Planet. Superman can be believable as a more aggressive person with Goree in the role, and viewers' interest will be piqued.
3 Ross Butler Can Play An Superman With An Unconventional Personality
Ross Butler has appeared in 13 Reasons Why and Riverdale, playing characters who are very rough around the edges. This contrasts with Clark Kent's straight-laced attitude, but Butler can bring a certain twist to the role if he channels his previous performances.
On the flip side, Butler has played the superhero version of Eugene in Shazam!, which is more in line with Superman's personality. As such, Butler has the range required to play the character but can add something unconventional and unique. Since Shazam's status in the DCEU is uncertain, Butler can be promoted to Superman instead.
2 Dacre Montgomery Would Be A Stylish Take On The Character
Dacre Montgomery might not be very tall, but he successfully played a dominating role as one of the characters in Stranger Things. Montgomery made the role of Billy an absolute force, which is the kind of staying power needed to play Superman.
Montgomery won fans due to his stylish presence, which he brought into his performance as well. Superman is the type of character who will benefit from having a bit more flair to his otherwise boy scout attitude, so Montgomery can be the key to providing a different take to the Man of Steel.
1 Austin Butler Can Switch His Critical Acclaim To The Superhero Genre
Austin Butler has been riding a wave of critical acclaim due to his starring role in Elvis. The actor can turn this in his favor by taking on the part of the Man of Steel. Butler is slightly shorter than Henry Cavill, although still fair enough to look good as the superhero.
The actor has the talent to put his own spin on the role, which will benefit from his unique looks. His appointment for Superman will bring the goodwill from his critical acclaim, allowing the new version of the Man of Steel to stand out before his debut.