David Corenswet’s acclaimed debut as Superman in 2025 was quietly hinted at years earlier during his role in a 2019 Netflix political drama. Before stepping into the iconic cape, Corenswet portrayed River Barkley, a thoughtful and reserved high school student, in the series The Politician. This connection offers fans an unexpected glimpse of his future as DC’s new Man of Steel through a memorable line that resonates in hindsight.
In The Politician’s second season, episode seven, Payton Hobart, played by Ben Platt, delivers a striking comment in a dream sequence:
“Why, though? What was so bad about your life? I mean, you look like Superman, and you speak Chinese, and you had money, and hugging you is like hugging a steel shipping crate.”
What once sounded like a casual remark now feels like an uncanny prophecy. Social media users have widely discussed this scene, seeing it as an almost deliberate foreshadowing of Corenswet’s future Marvel-like spotlight as Superman. The timing and content of this line seem too deliberate to be mere coincidence, sparking widespread speculation about creator Ryan Murphy’s possible foresight.
The Emotional Impact of Ben Platt’s Performance Reviving David Corenswet’s Character
While The Politician combined sharp wit with dramatic twists, some of the most affecting moments were quieter and deeply emotional. Among these was Ben Platt’s powerful rendition of Joni Mitchell’s “River.” Even as Corenswet’s character had exited the storyline, he returned to set to witness the filming of River’s memorial service, showing his connection to the project remained strong.
I came and visited the set for when they shot my memorial service. Any days filled with Ben’s music are great days.
—David Corenswet, Actor
Corenswet has spoken about the meaningful experience of watching Platt perform, reflecting on the blend of acting and singing involved. His admiration for the musical performance highlights the unique bond he developed with Platt throughout the production.
I could just listen to Ben sing — especially watching him sing in-character, act and sing at the same time… those were really fun days. Any days filled with Ben’s music are great days.
—David Corenswet, Actor
Although the character River died relatively early, he continued to influence the show through flashbacks and imagined interactions, leaving a lasting impression on Payton’s psyche. Corenswet described how this narrative choice mirrored the complex emotions tied to real-life loss.
I think it’s beautiful and sad that there is so much potential and it gets cut short. That’s another reason I think it’s good that River gets to come back in flashbacks and in Payton’s mind, or however you think about it, because in real life when someone dies, commits suicide, so much is left unanswered permanently.
—David Corenswet, Actor
The actor also valued the collaborative relationship formed with Ben Platt, emphasizing its significance for his role’s depth and emotional resonance.
The big plus of that is I got to build the long and fruitful relationship with Ben, since most of my scenes are with him and it was lovely.
—David Corenswet, Actor
The sensitivity and warmth Corenswet displayed in portraying River have since become hallmarks of his approach to embodying Superman’s character.
David Corenswet’s Long-Standing Ambition to Portray Superman
Years before officially becoming Superman, Corenswet openly shared his desire for this defining role. Ahead of any casting discussions or auditions, he expressed a clear vision for how he hoped the character would be depicted in the future.
It came to my attention before the internet got a hold of me. But my pie-in-the-sky ambition is definitely to play Superman. I would love to see somebody do an upbeat, throwback [take on Superman]. I love the Henry Cavill dark and gritty take, but I would love to see the next one be very bright and optimistic.
—David Corenswet, Actor
Corenswet’s aspirations were the result of careful career building through theater, independent films, and smaller appearances, including guest roles on shows like Scream Queens and 9-1-1. His breakthrough arrived with The Politician, where what began as a minor role expanded due to his compelling presence, ultimately leading to a series regular spot.
This platform opened doors to Hollywood film projects where Corenswet consistently portrayed characters grappling with ambitions and challenges, subtly reflecting a heroic quality grounded in realism and hope. His current portrayal of Superman embraces optimism and relatability, a contrast to earlier darker interpretations, aligning perfectly with his earlier vision.
As Superman commands attention in theaters worldwide, this unfolding narrative prompts reflection. Was The Politician’s 2019 nod a deliberate prelude to Corenswet’s superhero success, or simply the fortuitous alignment of timing, talent, and script? Regardless, his rise from a thoughtful high school character to the Man of Steel is both remarkable and inspiring.
For fans eager to revisit his roots, The Politician remains available to stream on Netflix, while Superman continues its theatrical run, showcasing David Corenswet’s captivating journey from quietly nuanced roles to iconic stardom.
