The DC cinematographic universe has re -captured the public’s attention after surprising statements by director Zack Snyder, known for his work inMan of SteelyJustice League. In an interview issued on April 27, 2025 in the podcastThe Nerdist, Snyder praised Efusively Tyler Hoechlin, the actor who plays Superman in the seriesSuperman & Lois, affirming that it is “the only one who can break Superman’s curse from which he is not even Henry Cavill can escape.” These words have unleashed a wave of speculation and debates among fans about the future of the iconic superhero, at a time when DC seeks to redefine their franchise under the direction of James Gunn and Peter Safran.
The “Curse of Superman” to which Snyder alludes is a narrative that has accompanied the character for decades, suggesting that the actors who interpret them face personal or professional difficulties after assuming the role. From George Reeves, who faced personal tragedies, to Christopher Reeve, whose life changed after an accident, this idea has persisted. Henry Cavill, who gave life to Superman in the extended DC universe since 2013, was not exempt from this perception. Despite being widely praised, his departure in 2022, after disagreements with Warner Bros. and changes in the creative direction, left many fans with a bittersweet taste. Snyder, who selected Cavill toMan of Steel, he admitted that, although Cavill “captured the essence of the character,” external circumstances limited the impact of his interpretation.
Tyler Hoechlin, meanwhile, has conquered the audience with his Clark Kent portrayal inSuperman & Lois, a series that balances superheroic action with a human and family approach. Snyder highlighted Hoechlin’s ability to convey both Superman’s strength and vulnerability, describing him as “an actor who understands the character in his nucleus.” According to the director, Hoechlin has managed to avoid the traps of fame and the expectations they have weighed on other interpreters of the steel man. “Tyler brings an authenticity that breaks any curse. It is superman not only for the cape, but for his heart,” said Snyder, generating enthusiasm among fans who see in him a possible candidate for film projects.
Snyder’s comment comes in a pivotal moment for DC. With James Gunn at the head of the new DC Universe, Superman’s character is being reimagined. Gunn directsSuperman: Legacy, which will present David Korenswet as a younger version of Clark Kent, with a premiere scheduled for July 2025. AlthoughSuperman & LoisThere is outside this continuity, Hoechlin’s popularity has led to speculation about his possible integration into the cinema. In X, hashtags like #hoechlinforsuperman and #snydervision have accumulated thousands of publications, with fans dreaming with a film that combines the sensitivity ofSuperman & Loiswith the epic scale of Snyder.
Not everyone shares Snyder’s enthusiasm. Some followers of Cavill, who still cry out for their return with campaigns such as #Bringbackcavill, argue that Hoechlin, mainly known for their television work, does not have the necessary presence to lead a film franchise. Others consider that the “curse” is an exaggeration, attributing the challenges of the actors to the Hollywood dynamics rather than a superstition. However, Snyder’s support, a key figure for the DC Fandom, has raised Hoechlin’s profile. Even Gunn, in a comment at Threads, acknowledged Hoechlin’s talent, stating that “he has done an exceptional job” and that “he is very respected in DC.”
Snyder’s words have also revived interest in their own connection with Superman. Although he is no longer directly involved in DC’s main projects, his character’s vision remains influential. The possibility that Snyder collaborates with Hoechlin in a future project, perhaps an independent film, has generated speculation in X, where fans imagine a superman that combines the emotional depth ofSuperman & Loiscon the greatness ofMan of Steel. While DC prepares for a new era, Snyder’s praise to Hoechlin raises an intriguing question: could this actor be the one who finally takes Superman to a new level, freeing him from any shadow of the past?
