Superman fans got their first look at the new Superman yesterday. DC Studios released its first image of actor David Corenswet as Superman. The movie, simply called Superman, hits theaters in July 2025. 

The image quickly went viral on social media and sharply divided opinion. Some fans expressed excitement at seeing Corensweet in the role. This will be his first lead in a tentpole movie. 

However, many others expressed disappointment. The last actor to play Superman, Henry Cavill, proved popular with a large number of comic book fans. Many remain upset that DC dropped him. 

One only needs to read the comments beneath an Instagram posting by Variety to get a sense of the disagreement. 

(Screenshot)

Many said the image looked AI-generated. Or that it looked like a promo for a CW show rather than a DC Studios movie. 

However, a lot of comments also focussed on the way Superman dressed himself. Some said he didn’t appear in a hurry. 

And then some went down a rabbit hole about it just not looking masculine enough. Because pulling on boots is apparently something inherently feminine.

Yes, really.

This particular tweet prompted a heated argument as to whether it’s even appropriate to show Superman pulling on his boots. 

It prompted plenty of clapback.

Henry Cavill returning and then not returning as Superman

Back in October 2022, Henry Cavill told fans in a social media post that he was returning as Superman: “I wanted to make it official: I am back as Superman … Thank you for your support and thank you for your patience. I promise it will be rewarded.”

However, around a month later, DC Studios announced the appointment of new bosses: co-chairs Peter Safran and director James Gunn. The men were tasked with overhauling the DC universe. This included rebooting Superman with a new actor. 

In December 2022, Cavill confirmed the news that he wouldn’t be back.

“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,” Cavill said.

“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 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.”

In January, Gunn defended DC’s decision to re-cast Superman. 

“We didn’t fire Henry. Henry was never cast,” Gunn told the Hollywood Reporter. “For me, it’s about, Who do I want to cast as Superman, and who do the filmmakers we have want to cast? And for me, for this story, it isn’t Henry.”

“I like Henry, I think he’s a great guy. I think he’s getting dicked around by a lot of people, including the former regime at this company. But this Superman is not Henry, for a number of reasons.”

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