James Gunn
He’s looking for Superman to hug
James Gunn already has precise ideas about his new Superman.
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James Gunn has not yet found a leading actor for his Superman film. But he knows exactly what an actor has to bring with him.
James Gunn (56) has been a screenwriter and director for almost 30 years. Among other things, he was responsible for the “Guardians of the Galaxy” films from Marvel. In the meantime, however, Gunn’s main focus is on the characters of the competitor DC – including at the premiere of the third part of the series, “Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3”, which will be released in German cinemas on May 3rd. Alongside Peter Safran (57), Gunn has not only been co-boss at DC Studios since the end of 2022, but also directs “Superman: Legacy”. No wonder he was asked to answer a few questions from the journalists present.
For the role of Superman, the director is looking for a main actor who should have very special qualities, as he tells the industry magazine “Variety”.. “The next Superman has to be someone who has all of Superman’s humanity but is still an alien,” says Gunn. “It also has to be someone who has the kindness and compassion of Superman – and someone you want to give a hug to.”
There are definitely not two actors
No actor has been found yet, but they already have “some really great choices”. Gunn does not reveal names. At least two well-known actors shouldn’t get their hopes up for the role.
“Guardians” star Chris Pratt (43) would only be an option if he were “a few years younger”, the director jokes. Ex-Superman Henry Cavill (39) will not return either. Cavill confirmed last December that he would not be reprising the role. He first embodied the popular superhero in 2013’s “Man of Steel”. Will Poulter (30), to be seen as Adam Warlock in the latest “Guardians”, is probably not on the shortlist either. He has not yet thought about the Superman role, nor auditioned for it, explains the actor.
Is this “Guardians” actress included?
However, like Gunn, one actress could switch camps: Pom Klementieff (36), who plays Mantis in the “Guardians” films. She confirmed that there had already been talks about a DC role and that plans were already being made. Nothing has been confirmed yet and the Frenchwoman did not want to reveal which character she could represent. All she said was that the character was “fucking cool”.
Superman: Legacy is currently scheduled to hit theaters on July 11, 2025.