David Corenswet considered playing Superman his dream role: 'My pie-in-the-sky ambition'

David Corenswet had stated in an interview in 2019 that he wanted to play an 'optimistic' Superman unlike Henry Cavill's 'dark' version
PUBLISHED JUN 29, 2023
David Corenswet wants to play an upbeat Superman unlike Henry Cavill's dark and gritty version (Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images)
David Corenswet wants to play an upbeat Superman unlike Henry Cavill's dark and gritty version (Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images)

PHILADELHPIA, PENNSYLVANIA: When Henry Cavill announced he would no longer play Superman, people were left shocked, with many asking if there was anybody who could replace the hunky Englishman as the man of steel. The answer to everyone's question came in the form of David Corenswet. The 29-year-old actor, who will play the superhero next, said in 2019 that playing the superhero was his "pie-in-the-sky ambition," per Entertainment Weekly

Corenswet has been cast as Clark Kent aka Superman aka Kal-El in James Gunn's upcoming movie, ‘Superman: Legacy’. 'The Marvelous Mrs Maisel' star Rachel Brosnahan will play Lois Lane.

David Corenswet attends the
David Corenswet attends the 'Pearl' Premiere during the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival at Royal Alexandra Theatre on September 12, 2022 in Toronto, Ontario (Jemal Countess/Getty Images)

An upbeat Superman

Corenswet told the outlet at that time, "It came to my attention before the internet got a hold of me,” adding, “But my pie-in-the-sky ambition is definitely to play Superman. I would love to see somebody do an upbeat, throwback [take on Superman]. I love the Henry Cavill dark and gritty take, but I would love to see the next one be very bright and optimistic.”

The movie is slated to be released on July 11, 2025. Over the years, many fans have drawn comparisons between Corenswet and Cavill, noting their striking resemblance. ‘Superman: Legacy 'marks Corenswet's first major role as a leading man. 

'Far from a damsel in distress'

According to the The Hollywood Reporter, Corenswet had a screen test and landed the role a few weeks ago. His co-star, Brosnahan too was very excited to play Lois in the upcoming superhero movie.

David Corenswet attends the Los Angeles Premiere of Netflix's
David Corenswet attends the Los Angeles Premiere of Netflix's 'Look Both Ways' at TUDUM Theater on August 16, 2022 in Hollywood, California (Emma McIntyre/Getty Images)

Brosnahan spoke about how amazing it would be to play the character in an interview on 'The View' when the final season of her Amazon Prime Video dramedy released. She said, "It would be extraordinary. I grew up watching Lois Lane. This incredibly talented journalist who is far from a damsel in distress. And...I would jump at the chance if it arose."

Gunn had taken to Twitter to praise the new leads for 'Superman: Legacy'. He wrote, "They are not only both incredible actors, but also wonderful people."

According to IMDb, the official synopsis for 'Superman: Legacy' reads, "It follows Superman as he reconciles his heritage with his human upbringing. He is the embodiment of truth, justice and the American way in a world that views kindness as old-fashioned."

Corenswet is known for his roles on Netflix's 'The Politician' and 'Hollywood', and the horror movie 'Pearl'. 

Rachel Brosnahan attends the 74th Primetime Emmys at Microsoft Theater on September 12, 2022 in Los Angeles, California.
Rachel Brosnahan attends the 74th Primetime Emmys at Microsoft Theater on September 12, 2022 in Los Angeles, California (Momodu Mansaray/Getty Images)
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