Henry Cavill, who portrayed Superman in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) from 2013 to 2022, has shared his thoughts on the latest images of David Corenswet as the Man of Steel in James Gunn’s upcoming Superman (2025), set to release on July 11, 2025. The images, which surfaced earlier this week, feature Corenswet in the iconic blue-and-red suit, standing in the Fortress of Solitude and sharing a heartfelt moment with Krypto the Super-Dog. Cavill’s comments, made during an interview with Entertainment Weekly while promoting his new project, come at a time when fans are fiercely debating the new Superman’s look, demeanor, and overall suitability for the role. As the DC Universe undergoes a major reboot under Gunn’s leadership, Cavill’s words offer a mix of support, reflection, and a subtle acknowledgment of the challenges Corenswet faces in stepping into the cape.
Cavill’s tenure as Superman began with Man of Steel (2013), followed by Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016), Justice League (2017), and a brief cameo in Black Adam (2022). His portrayal, shaped by Zack Snyder’s darker, more introspective vision, presented a Superman who grappled with his god-like powers and his place in a flawed world. Despite mixed reactions to the DCEU’s tone, Cavill’s chiseled physique, intense demeanor, and commanding presence earned him a dedicated fanbase. However, in late 2022, Cavill was replaced by Corenswet as part of Gunn and DC Studios co-head Peter Safran’s plan to reboot the franchise with a younger Clark Kent, a decision that sparked significant backlash from fans who felt Cavill’s story deserved a proper conclusion.
The new images of Corenswet have intensified comparisons between the two actors. In one shot, Corenswet stands tall in the Fortress of Solitude, surrounded by robotic assistants, with the glowing “S” emblem illuminating the icy backdrop. Another image shows him with Krypto, a white pup wearing a red cape, in a snowy landscape—a scene that highlights the film’s blend of emotional warmth and high-tech spectacle. The suit itself, a brighter, more comic-accurate design with red trunks and a golden belt, has been a point of contention. While some fans appreciate the nod to Superman’s classic look, others have mocked it, calling it “cosplay-like” or “too colorful” compared to Cavill’s sleek, modernized suit, which omitted the trunks and leaned into a darker, more grounded aesthetic.
In his interview, Cavill addressed these images with characteristic grace. “David looks fantastic as Superman,” he said. “I’ve seen the images, and he brings a fresh energy to the role that I think fans will really connect with. The suit, the setting—it all feels like a love letter to the character’s history, and I’m genuinely excited to see what James Gunn has in store.” Cavill’s comments reflect his support for Corenswet, despite the emotional weight of leaving the role behind. He also acknowledged the shift in tone, noting, “My Superman was shaped by the time and the vision of those films. It was a darker, more introspective take, which I loved exploring. But I always said I’d love to see a brighter, more hopeful Superman one day, and it looks like that’s what David is bringing to the table.”
Fan reactions to Corenswet’s Superman have been mixed, with some taking to platforms like X to mock the new portrayal. The trailers, which consistently show Corenswet’s Superman lying down—whether in a healing pod, collapsed in the Fortress, or surrounded by robots—have led to jokes about him being “too weak” or “always napping.” Fans have criticized his expressions, often showing pain or exhaustion, as lacking the commanding presence Cavill brought to the role. Cavill’s Superman was frequently depicted in powerful, heroic poses, exuding a god-like aura that resonated with many. In contrast, Corenswet’s more vulnerable portrayal, combined with the brighter suit, has some fans feeling he doesn’t match the gravitas of his predecessor, with comments like “Cavill’s Superman felt like a god; this one looks like he needs a break” gaining traction online.
However, not all reactions have been negative. Some fans defend Corenswet, arguing that his portrayal aligns with Gunn’s vision of a more human, optimistic Superman. They see the vulnerability in the trailers as a narrative choice to highlight Superman’s growth, making him more relatable as a young Clark Kent balancing his Kryptonian heritage with his life at the Daily Planet. The inclusion of Krypto and the brighter tone have also won over some, who view this as a return to Superman’s roots as a beacon of hope, rather than the conflicted figure Cavill portrayed.
Cavill’s comments also touch on his own journey with the character. “I’ll always cherish my time as Superman,” he said. “It was an honor to wear the cape, and I wish I’d had the chance to explore more of Clark’s humanity. But I understand the need for a fresh start, and I’m rooting for David to make the role his own.” His words reflect a bittersweet acceptance of the recasting, acknowledging the shadow he casts while expressing genuine goodwill toward Corenswet.
As Superman (2025) approaches, the debate over Corenswet’s portrayal continues to divide fans. Cavill’s supportive stance offers a moment of unity, reminding the community of the shared love for the character, even as interpretations differ. Whether Corenswet can step out of Cavill’s formidable shadow remains to be seen, but for now, the former Superman’s words serve as a bridge between the old and the new, setting the stage for a new chapter in the Man of Steel’s legacy.
