Superman’s Actions Will Affect the Thoughts and Actions of Children, So the Issue of Casting Superheroes Is a Big Problem. But Look at What James Gunn and David Corenswet Did Here

As of February 24, 2025, the upcoming *Superman* film, directed by James Gunn and starring David Corenswet, is poised to redefine the Man of Steel for a new generation when it lands in theaters on July 11. Beyond its promise of practical effects and a hopeful tone, the movie has sparked a broader conversation about the influence of superhero casting on young audiences. Superman, an enduring symbol of truth and justice, holds a unique power to shape the thoughts and actions of children—a responsibility that makes the choice of actor a weighty one. Gunn’s decision to cast Corenswet, who once portrayed a gay character in a same-sex kissing scene, has ignited debate about how such roles might ripple through impressionable minds, raising questions about representation, morality, and the cultural impact of heroes.

Gunn, now steering DC Studios with Peter Safran, has positioned *Superman* as the cornerstone of a rebooted DC Universe. Corenswet, a 31-year-old actor with a modest resume, steps into the cape following Henry Cavill’s tenure, bringing a natural physique and a fresh face to the role. The film follows a young Clark Kent balancing life at the Daily Planet with his heroic duties, surrounded by a cast including Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. Yet, it’s Corenswet’s past work—specifically a scene from the 2022 horror film *Pearl*, where he kissed a male co-star in a brief gay role—that has thrust this casting into a spotlight beyond the usual buzz of superhero hype.

Superheroes like Superman aren’t just entertainment; they’re archetypes that kids emulate. Studies have long shown that children mimic the behaviors they see on screen, from acts of kindness to displays of strength. Clark Kent’s moral compass—his unwavering commitment to doing what’s right—has guided generations since his debut in 1938. Casting an actor to embody this ideal naturally invites scrutiny, as their public persona and past roles become part of the character’s narrative. Corenswet’s scene in *Pearl*, though fleeting and unrelated to Superman, has drawn attention from parents and commentators who worry it could “confuse” or “influence” young viewers, particularly in how they perceive masculinity or heroism.

Gunn, no stranger to controversy from his *Guardians of the Galaxy* days, seems unfazed. His Superman is pitched as a return to the character’s roots—a beacon of hope in a cynical world. Corenswet’s training, free of CGI padding, reflects this authenticity, mirroring the everyman quality Reeve brought to the role decades ago. But the decision to cast an actor with a queer role in his history wasn’t made in a vacuum. Gunn’s films often embrace diversity—think Star-Lord’s fluid charm or Peacemaker’s layered complexity—suggesting this choice aligns with his vision of a modern, inclusive DC. “Superman’s for everyone,” Gunn said in a recent interview. “David’s talent and heart are what matter here.”

The debate hinges on a single scene: in *Pearl*, Corenswet’s character shares a kiss with another man, a moment tied to the film’s twisted narrative, not a declaration of identity. Yet, in today’s polarized climate, it’s enough to spark backlash. On platforms like X, some fans cheer the casting as progressive, with one writing, “A Superman who reflects real people—love it.” Others decry it as a betrayal of the character’s “traditional” image, arguing that children might interpret it as an endorsement of behaviors they’re too young to contextualize. “Superman’s supposed to be a role model, not a question mark,” one critic posted. Neither Gunn nor Corenswet has directly addressed the kiss, but the silence has only amplified the noise.

History offers perspective. Christopher Reeve faced his own casting doubts in 1978—too skinny, too unknown—yet became the gold standard. Brandon Routh and Cavill weathered similar storms, their off-screen lives dissected for flaws. Corenswet’s situation is unique, though, as it ties into broader cultural shifts around gender and sexuality. Child psychologists note that kids process media through a lens of curiosity, often asking questions rather than forming fixed beliefs. A 2023 study found that exposure to diverse characters can foster empathy in young viewers, though parental guidance shapes the outcome. Whether Corenswet’s past role “affects” children may depend less on the scene itself and more on how adults frame it.

Gunn’s gamble is bold but calculated. Early test screenings of *Superman* have earned praise, with Corenswet’s earnest portrayal reportedly stealing the show. The film’s practical stunts and bright tone aim to recapture Superman’s timeless appeal, potentially overshadowing any controversy. For every detractor, there’s a fan eager to see this Man of Steel take flight—gay kiss or not. As July nears, the question isn’t just whether Gunn and Corenswet will deliver a “successful Superman,” but how their choices will resonate with the kids who’ll watch, wide-eyed, as he leaps tall buildings in a single bound. In a world where heroes shape minds, casting may indeed be a big problem—but it’s one Gunn seems ready to tackle head-on.