James Gunn has revealed the details of the whole Henry Cavill Superman ‘sacking’ drama that went on back in December.
Cavill originally teased his return to the role back in October. He posted a new shot of him donned in the iconic blue suit and red cape on his Instagram, along with a clip discussing his return.
He wrote at the time: “A very small taste of what’s to come, my friends. The dawn of hope renewed. Thank you for your patience, it will be rewarded.”
However, it was later confirmed that the decision to continue with him playing the iconic superhero had been backtracked.
In an emotional post, 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 addressed the previous confirmation of his return to the role: “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.
“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.”
He concluded the post on an upbeat note: “It’s been a fun ride with you all, onwards and upwards.”
Cavill first starred as Clark Kent in Zack Snyder’s 2013 movie Man of Steel. He went on to play the role in 3 more movies — Batman vs. Superman, Justice League and his uncredited cameo in Black Adam.
Fans responded to the message with heartbreak at the time.
Black Adam producer Dany Garcia said: “You are and will always be our Superman and you are, of course so much more. Here’s to the brilliance that lies before you.”
Fan artist Bosslogic commented: “We this a damn shame. So sorry to hear this man…… Don’t know what to say.”
However, over a month on from the announcement, DC Studios co-chairman James Gunn has revealed exactly what went down.
“We didn’t fire Henry,” he shared, per the BBC. “Henry was never cast.”
The Guardians of the Galaxy director continued: “For me, it’s about, who do I want to cast as Superman, and who do the filmmakers we have want to cast? And for me, for this story, it isn’t Henry.”
He added: “I like Henry, I think he’s a great guy. I think he’s getting [messed] around by a lot of people, including the former regime at this company. But this Superman is not Henry, for a number of reasons.”
Gunn’s comments come as he announced a whole new host of DC projects, including a new Superman film titled Superman: Legacy that is set to hit screens on July 11, 2025.
