Veteran actor Wendell Pierce, who portrays Perry White, the editor-in-chief of The Daily Planet in the upcoming Superman film, uncovered a surprising and scandalous storyline involving his character and Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor while preparing for his role. During an interview with ComicBook, Pierce discussed a long-forgotten comic book arc that introduces a secret affair and an unexpected family tie, fueling what could be a complicated rivalry between their characters. This revelation has added a fresh layer of intrigue to the Nicholas Hoult Lex Luthor rivalry for the new movie.
The Unexpected Affair Behind Perry White’s Family History
The storyline in question dates back to the late 1980s in the post-Crisis on Infinite Earths continuity of Superman comics. In The World of Metropolis #1 (August 1988), it was revealed that Alice, Perry White’s wife, had a brief relationship with Lex Luthor while Perry was away serving in the Army, under the mistaken belief that Perry was deceased. This clandestine romance resulted in a son, Jerry, who was initially believed to be Perry’s child. However, Superman (Volume 2) #47 (October 1990) uncovers the truth when Jerry becomes embroiled with the criminal organization Intergang. After sustaining a gunshot wound, Jerry’s paternity comes into question when Lex Luthor appears at the hospital, revealing he is the biological father.
A Potential On-Screen Feud Rooted in Comic History
Pierce expressed his interest in confronting Hoult’s Lex Luthor over this hidden family scandal, suggesting a personal reason that could intensify their rivalry on screen. He candidly shared,
“The one thing I learned being outside the world, not knowing about the world, and then researching the world, is Lex Luthor had an affair with my wife.”
and added,
“And my second son may be his. So I have a bone to pick with him.”
—Wendell Pierce, Actor
The idea of a direct clash between Perry White and Lex Luthor would create a striking narrative, offering more than the usual newspaper debate or city-wide threats. This scandalous backstory could add depth and personal turmoil to the characters beyond the traditional hero versus villain roles.
Challenges to Adapting the Affair for the New DC Universe
Translating this comic storyline to the current cinematic universe presents some challenges, particularly in reconciling the age differences between Pierce and Hoult. In the comics, Lex and Perry were close in age, making the affair more plausible. With a 26-year gap between the actors, the timeline would need adjustment, possibly making Jerry younger than his original comic counterpart Jimmy Olsen or reimagining when the affair occurred. Superman writer and co-chairman James Gunn would likely have to reshape the narrative to fit this dynamic into the movie’s storyline convincingly.
Enhancing Lex Luthor’s Character Through a Secret Past
Integrating this secret affair involving Alice and the revelation of Jerry’s true paternity would add a complicated emotional angle to Hoult’s portrayal of Lex Luthor. It would give Luthor a more intimate grudge against The Daily Planet, expanding his motivations against its staff, including Perry White. This layered relationship would heighten the stakes in their conflict, offering audiences a more compelling and personal battle than the traditional villainous schemes.
Future Possibilities for On-Screen Interactions
This storyline also has the potential to bring Wendell Pierce and Nicholas Hoult into shared scenes that explore this fraught relationship, something Pierce hopes for. The intense personal history behind the affair and son would create tangible reasons for their characters to face off, elevating their interactions beyond mere professional disputes or city-wide crises. As the Superman movie approaches its July 11th release, fans may look forward to seeing how these complex character dynamics unfold.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Was Nicholas Hoult in Harry Potter?
A. Nicholas Hoult, known for his role in Nosferatu, auditioned for several key parts in the Harry Potter films, but he wasn’t selected for any. Despite having roles in major Hollywood series, he did not get the opportunity to be part of the original Harry Potter movies.
Q. Are Jennifer Lawrence and Nicholas Hoult still friends?
A. After meeting while working on the first film of the series, Hoult and Lawrence dated for five years. They have stayed friends since separating.
