David Corenswet‘s Superman journey beginnings can be traced back to his earliest film roles, long before he was chosen as the new Man of Steel in James Gunn’s highly anticipated reboot, set for reveal on July 8. With the legacy of actors such as Christopher Reeve, Dean Cain, Tom Welling, and Henry Cavill behind him, the 31-year-old Juilliard alumnus faces tremendous anticipation as he prepares to embody the world‘s most renowned superhero.
Though the buzz around his portrayal of Clark Kent continues to grow, it’s Corenswet’s lesser-known work in the political drama Affairs of State that quietly paved the way towards his cinematic breakthrough. While few outside the indie film circles recall this title, the film offered an early glimpse of the qualities and screen presence that would later define Corenswet as a leading man.
Early Career and a Standout Role in Affairs of State
Corenswet’s on-screen debut came in Affairs of State, a provocative political thriller directed by Eric Bross, set amid the ruthless landscape of Washington, D.C. He took on the role of Michael Lawson, a quick-thinking and ambitious congressional aide who is determined to ascend the ranks of Capitol Hill. Unlike the traditional, starry-eyed newcomer, Michael is calculated and uses his considerable charm to reach his goals—even if it means engaging in risky affairs with both the senator’s wife, Judith Baines, played by Mimi Rogers, and his daughter. Actor David James Elliott portrayed Senator John Boland Baines, intensifying the intrigue as Michael’s boss and primary rival in the ongoing power games.
Described as a hybrid of political chess and sultry intrigue, the film showcased the darker side of ambition and the ethical compromises that bubble beneath the surface of American politics. Despite the film’s lukewarm critical reception, Corenswet’s layered portrayal of Michael Lawson was hard to dismiss. He veered between confidence and emotional depth, offering a captivating mix of seductiveness and vulnerability. Even though his character’s decisions were morally questionable, Corenswet imbued the role with genuine internal conflict and complexity, hinting at a capacity for larger, more demanding roles in the future.
The Impact of Affairs of State on Corenswet’s Hollywood Rise
While Affairs of State did not make a splash at the box office or garner major awards, it served as a crucial launching point for Corenswet’s Hollywood ascent. As a graduate of Juilliard, Corenswet possessed not only the technical chops but also an undeniable old-Hollywood presence. Instead of taking the typical route through genre films or comedies, his earliest major film role gave him the kind of gritty screen experience that set him apart from the crowd of emerging young actors.
Following this debut, his career began to gather momentum. Corenswet soon caught the attention of prominent creator Ryan Murphy, landing the role of River Barkley in The Politician. This part showcased another facet of his range, as he shifted from cunning political aide to sincere and deeply empathetic character. His next prominent role came with Netflix’s Hollywood, where he played Jack Castello, a World War II veteran discovering life as an aspiring actor in postwar Los Angeles. In both productions, Corenswet displayed the versatility and classic leading-man energy that became his signature, further preparing him for headline-grabbing roles ahead.
From Indie Thrillers to the Superman Spotlight
When James Gunn was appointed to reboot Superman for the new DC Universe, he was looking for an actor who could display both the humility of Clark Kent and the legendary strength of Superman. Corenswet was praised for his dedication to the part, not only for his physical resemblance to Christopher Reeve but also for his stage training and commitment. Collider’s Steve Weintraub reported on Gunn’s comments about his actor:
“The thing that connects him so much in some ways to Christopher Reeve is he has a lot of deep training. I’ve never worked in my entire life with such a rigorous actor.”
—James Gunn, Director
During the development process, Corenswet’s willingness to experiment and embrace new ideas was clear in moments such as:
“Let’s just keep trying trunks and see what happens.”
After being cast as Superman in 2023, Corenswet committed fully to embodying the character, beginning a demanding physical transformation to reflect the superhero’s iconic look. His approach involved rigorous training and a targeted diet, but Gunn ultimately valued his psychological preparation just as much. Corenswet’s humility, combined with precise study of previous interpretations, helped solidify him as the ideal actor for the role. By balancing respect for the legacy of Superman with his own grounded, emotionally authentic perspective, he set himself apart in the eyes of many, including fans and industry insiders alike.
Corenswet’s journey from indie films to the superhero spotlight demonstrates a carefully built career, marked by strategic choices and persistent growth. Affairs of State may not be widely remembered for its critical or commercial success, but for Corenswet, it was the entry point into leading roles. The film tested his abilities as a frontman, and he emerged with a reputation for both gravitas and versatility.
What Lies Ahead for Corenswet as Superman
With Rachel Brosnahan set to play Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult cast as Lex Luthor, the upcoming DC Studios Superman reboot promises a fresh interpretation while honoring its storied history. James Gunn’s vision centers around a young Clark Kent grappling with his dual identity—balancing his Kryptonian origins with his experiences on Earth. This storyline mirrors the personal journey that has characterized Corenswet’s ascent in Hollywood: a process of synthesizing technique, depth, and genuine emotion.
Corenswet’s portrayal will enter the spotlight alongside past portrayals from Christopher Reeve, Dean Cain, Tom Welling, and Henry Cavill. The expectations for the new Superman are immense, but if Corenswet’s history—from Affairs of State through standout television performances—is any indication, he is poised not only to meet but to redefine the role for a new generation.
