James Gunn has shared details about informing Henry Cavill that he would no longer play Superman in the upcoming 2025 film. This update comes after Cavill’s cameo in Black Adam, which had raised hopes among fans that he would reprise his role as the iconic superhero.
New Direction for the Superman Franchise
Following James Gunn and Peter Safran’s takeover of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), the creative team decided to take the Superman character in a different direction. Despite fans’ excitement surrounding Henry Cavill’s continued role, Gunn explained that the franchise’s future will move forward with a new vision.
Personal Conversation With Henry Cavill
On July 18, during an appearance on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, James Gunn revealed how he and Peter Safran handled the situation personally by meeting with Henry Cavill.
So Peter and I — the right thing to do was to sit down with [Henry] and talk to him. And we sat down, we talked to him. He was an absolute gentleman, a great guy about it,
James said on the podcast.
He added that Henry had just one request during their discussion:
He said, ‘The only thing I ask is that I’m able to reveal it myself, as opposed to it coming from you guys.’ And I’m like, That’s… he’s a class actor. He has been from the start.
Future Prospects for Henry Cavill
Although Cavill will not continue as Superman, James Gunn expressed openness to casting him in other future roles within the franchise or universe, indicating respect for Cavill’s talent and contribution.
The Road Ahead for Superman
This shift marks a significant turning point for the Superman character and the DCEU’s storytelling strategy. Fans can expect fresh developments in 2025, as James Gunn and Peter Safran redefine the narrative surrounding the Man of Steel, potentially changing the tone and focus of upcoming Superman stories.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does James Gunn believe in God?
A. Gunn grew up in a Catholic household and has shared that prayer remains significant to him, yet he also describes himself as somewhat against organized religion.
Q. Is James Gunn no longer with Marvel?
A. After being removed from the Guardians of the Galaxy series in 2018, Gunn said he “thought my career was over.” Fortunately, he and Peter Safran were chosen to lead DC Studios in 2022, giving him an opportunity for a new superhero project.
Q. What is James Gunn’s religion?
A. In Gunn’s 2025 Superman adaptation, Krypto the Superdog got a makeover with CGI animation, inspired by Ozu. Gunn grew up in a Catholic family and still values prayer. However, he also describes himself as “in some ways, anti-religion.”
