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When Henry Cavill announced that he would return to the role of Superman, the most iconic figure in comic books, he caused a stir.
His inclusion in Dwayne Johnson’s Black Adam appears to support his assertion.
Cavill would not be returning, according to James Gunn, one of the two new heads of DC Studios.
Gunn also revealed that while DC would produce a new Superman project, Cavill would not return.
The announcement
James Gunn provided fans with updates on DC’s trajectory with a series of tweets today.
“Peter & I have a DC slate ready to go, which we couldn’t be more over-the-moon about,” he started.
“We’ll be able to share some exciting information about our first new projects at the beginning of the new year.”
“Among the slate is Superman,” Gunn continued.
“In the initial stages, our story will be focusing on an earlier part of Superman’s life, so the character will not be played by Henry Cavill.”
Those following Henry Cavill since Man of Steel in 2013 felt their stomachs flip as they read the news.
Gunn left a glimmer of hope, so it wasn’t all terrible.
“But we had just a great meeting with Henry and we’re big fans and we talked about a number of exciting possibilities to work together in the future.”
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Cavill confirms grim news
Amid everything, Henry Cavill posted a lengthy statement on his Instagram page informing followers of the shocking news, which affected thousands, if not millions, of people.
“I have just had a meeting with James Gun and Peter Safran and it’s sad news, everyone,” Cavill began.
“I will, after all, not be returning as Superman.”
“After being told by the studio to announce my return back in October, prior to their hire, this news isn’t the easiest, but that’s life.”
“The changing of the guard is something that happens. I respect that.”
“James and Peter have a universe to build. I wish them and all involved with the new universe the best of luck, and the happiest of fortunes.”
In true Superman fashion, Henry Cavill exhorted supporters to maintain their composure.
“For those who have been by my side through the years… we can mourn for a bit, but then we must remember… Superman is still around.”
“Everything he stands for still exists, and the examples he sets for us are still there!”
“My turn to wear the cape has passed, but what Superman stands for never will. It’s been a fun ride with you all, onwards and upwards.”
The Witcher
Henry Cavill announced his resignation as the Man of Steel two months after declaring his final appearance as Geralt of Rivia for the third season of the Netflix series.
Cavill agreed to the revised casting, which saw Liam Hemsworth playing the role.
The English actor wrote in support of Hemsworth’s takeover:
“As with the greatest of literary characters, I pass the torch with reverence for the time spent embodying Geralt and enthusiasm to see Liam’s take on this most fascinating and nuanced of men.”
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Reaction
When Gunn stated that Henry Cavill wouldn’t return as the “big blue boy scout,” Twitter erupted since viewers had anticipated seeing him face off against Black Adam and Darkseid.
One user wrote:
“I was so devastated by henry cavill leaving the witcher but now even more devastated he’s out on two roles he absolutely loved.”
“Truly tho [sic] what a sad night and one of the unfortunate eras for a Superman actor,” wrote another.
“Absolutely just disheartening and just unbelievable, and I can’t believe it happened, but Henry Cavill, u will always be our Superman, and we’ll miss you.”
A third chimed in, saying:
“Henry Cavill is Superman. He loves the character. He’s perfect for the role. The fans love him.”
“I have no idea how they possibly think it’s a good idea to not continue with him. Unbelievable. So much untapped potential. Hope has officially been lost.”
One fan lamented Cavill’s loss, especially with his herculean build, which gave him the Superman look, saying:
“It’s to bad Henry Cavill is no longer superman, it feels like they only scratch the surface of what he could do with the character.”
“The man looked incredible as Superman.”
One Twitter user thought the studio’s decision to have him announce his comeback before letting him go from the role was hysterically dumb.
“Completely fine with both Henry Cavill staying and going as Superman,” he wrote.
“But my god, not only having him return and officially address it, but basically running a subliminal marketing campaign around said return, only to fire him 6 weeks later, is so hilariously stupid.”
Others complied with the situation because they understood how crucial commerce was to the entertainment industry’s survival.
“So, Henry Cavill is Superman no more. I’m devastated. But it is what it is. It’s not called Show friends, it’s called Show business,” they wrote.
“I’m interested what @JamesGunn and Paul does for DC Studios. Start with a clean slate is great.”
Another person wrote in agreement:
“Damn. It sucks we lost Henry Cavill as Superman but I’m super excited to see what James Gunn has cooked up.”
References:
James Gunn’s official Twitter thread
DC fans “devastated” that Henry Cavill is out again as Superman
