James Gunn Breaks Silence on Replacing Henry Cavill: “It Was Terrible”
In a heartfelt and honest interview, James Gunn, co-head of DC Studios and director of the newly released Superman, has opened up about one of the most difficult conversations of his career — letting go of Henry Cavill as Superman.
Appearing on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Gunn described the moment he had to inform Cavill that he would not be reprising his role in the new DC Universe reboot. It was, in his words, “terrible” and “really unfair.”
A Miscommunication at the Top
The confusion began during a leadership transition at DC Studios. Gunn had just signed on to lead the newly restructured DCU. Meanwhile, Cavill — beloved for his portrayal of the Man of Steel — had made a public announcement that he was returning as Superman.
But behind the scenes, Gunn already had a different vision for the iconic superhero.
“I’m like, ‘What is going on? We know what the plan is,’” Gunn told host Josh Horowitz.
The timing couldn’t have been worse. Gunn had closed his deal with DC the same day Cavill posted his comeback. The actor hadn’t been informed that the studio was going in a completely different creative direction.
“It Was a Total Bummer”
Gunn didn’t mince words when describing how it felt to deliver the news to Cavill:
“It was really unfair to him and was a total bummer,” he admitted.
Despite the awkwardness, Gunn praised Cavill for how he handled the situation.
“Henry was an absolute gentleman,” Gunn said. “He only asked that he be allowed to share the news first.”
Cavill did just that, issuing a gracious public statement in December 2022, confirming that while he would not be returning as Superman, he wished everyone involved the best of luck.
A New Man of Steel: David Corenswet
The role of Superman eventually went to David Corenswet, who had been a fan-favorite for the part. Known for his roles in Hollywood and Pearl, Corenswet beat out several big names, including Jacob Elordi, Tom Brittney, and even Lex Luthor actor Nicholas Hoult, who was also in the running.
To Corenswet’s credit, Cavill was nothing but supportive when the casting was announced. He even offered the newcomer kind words — proof that there were no hard feelings.
Not the End for Cavill?
While Cavill may no longer wear the red cape, Gunn made it clear that the door isn’t closed for him in the DC Universe.
“I would love to put Henry in something,” Gunn said during the podcast.
This opens up the possibility that fans may still see Cavill in a future DC project — just not as Superman. Whether it’s a new hero, a powerful villain, or even a surprise cameo, the idea certainly hasn’t been ruled out.
What It Means for DC and Superman
The casting change marked a bold step for James Gunn’s vision of the DCU, one that emphasizes a fresh start with younger actors and new storylines. While the transition wasn’t smooth, Gunn’s openness about the process reflects a level of transparency that fans often crave but rarely get.
For Henry Cavill fans, the moment was bittersweet — a reminder of how beloved he was in the role. But it also signaled a new chapter, both for him and the franchise.
Final Thoughts
Letting go of a legacy actor like Henry Cavill wasn’t easy — and James Gunn knows it. But as Superman hits theaters and the new DCU continues to take shape, it’s clear that both men handled a difficult situation with professionalism and respect.
Gunn’s honest reflection and Cavill’s grace have turned what could’ve been a PR disaster into a powerful story about change, vision, and mutual respect.
