Henry Cavill, the British actor known for his role as Superman, has been let go from the iconic character just two months after announcing his anticipated return.
In an Instagram post on Wednesday, Cavill shared the disappointing news with his 22.9 million followers, revealing that he will not be reprising his role as the Man of Steel on the big screen.
“I have just had a meeting with James Gunn and Peter Safran, and it’s sad news, everyone. I will, after all, not be returning as Superman,” expressed the 39-year-old actor. “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.”
He further added, “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 happiest of fortunes,” he continued.
Cavill also acknowledged his loyal supporters, stating, “Those who have been by my side through the years, we can mourn for a bit,” before addressing the future of the franchise.
“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!” emphasized Cavill.
“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!” he concluded.
Shortly after Cavill’s statement on Instagram, James Gunn, the head of DC Films, took to Twitter to elaborate on the future of the beloved Superman character.
“Peter & I have a DC slate ready to go, which we couldn’t be more over-the-moon about; we’ll be able to share some exciting information about our first projects at the beginning of the new year,” Gunn announced.
“Among those on the slate is Superman. 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,” Gunn clarified.
He added, “But we just had 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.”
Cavill had portrayed the superhero in several DCU films but had been absent in the role since 2017’s Justice League. Last month, he made a surprise cameo as Clark Kent in Black Adam and confirmed his official return.
“The character means so much to me. It’s been five years now. I never gave up hope. It’s amazing to be here now talking about it again. There is such a bright future ahead for the character. I’m so excited to tell a story with an enormously joyful Superman,” Cavill expressed during an October interview with “Happy Sad Confused” podcast host Josh Horowitz.
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