The New Man Of Steel: 7 Essential Facts About David Corenswet, The Actor Playing Superman In The 2025 Movie

The question of "who plays Superman in the new movie" has been definitively answered, marking the start of a new era for the iconic hero. As of today, December 18, 2025, the new Man of Steel for the DC Universe (DCU) is actor David Corenswet. He is set to star as Clark Kent/Superman in the highly anticipated film *Superman*, written and directed by DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn, which is scheduled for release on July 11, 2025. This film is not a sequel but a complete reboot, serving as the first feature film in the new DCU chapter titled "Gods and Monsters," promising a fresh, contemporary take on the Kryptonian hero that centers on his inherent kindness and his struggle to reconcile his alien heritage with his human upbringing. The casting of David Corenswet was a crucial decision, signaling a clear departure from the previous Snyderverse iteration of the character. The choice of Corenswet, a young actor with a striking resemblance to a classic Superman aesthetic and a background in complex dramatic roles, has ignited significant excitement among fans and critics alike. His journey to donning the iconic red and blue suit involved a rigorous audition process and a dramatic physical transformation, all under the guiding hand of director James Gunn, who sought a Superman grounded in optimism and empathy.

David Corenswet: A Complete Biography and Filmography Profile

The actor stepping into the role of Kal-El/Clark Kent brings a solid foundation of dramatic training and a rapidly growing filmography.

• Full Name: David Packard Corenswet
• Date of Birth: July 8, 1993
• Place of Birth: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
• Education: Graduated from the Juilliard School in 2016.
• Notable Family: His father, John Corenswet, was a stage actor before becoming a lawyer.
• Early Career: Began his career in short films and guest roles on major television series after graduating from Juilliard.

Key Film and Television Roles (Filmography)

Corenswet's career trajectory showcases his range, moving from supporting roles to leading man status:

• The Politician (TV Series, 2019): River Barkley (Breakout Role)
• Hollywood (TV Miniseries, 2020): Jack Castello (Created by Ryan Murphy)
• We Own This City (TV Miniseries, 2022): David McDougall (HBO Miniseries)
• Pearl (Film, 2022): The Projectionist (Horror/Slasher Genre)
• Look Both Ways (Film, 2022): Jake
• Twisters (Film, 2024): Scott
• Elementary (TV Series, 2017): Houston Spivey
• House of Cards (TV Series, 2018): Reed

The Casting Process: Why James Gunn Chose Corenswet

The search for the new Superman was exhaustive, involving numerous talented actors, including Nicholas Hoult, who ultimately took on the role of Lex Luthor. For James Gunn, the director and co-CEO of DC Studios, the choice was about more than just physical presence; it was about capturing the essence of the character.

Gunn's vision for the new DCU's flagship hero is a younger Superman who is already operating as a superhero but is still finding his place in the world. He sought an actor who could embody the "basic kindness of human beings." Corenswet's audition reportedly stood out because he projected a unique blend of warmth and power.

The director specifically noted Corenswet's smile, describing it as "very Superman-y," which aligned perfectly with the optimistic, empathetic tone he is aiming for. Gunn's primary condition for the casting was that the actor must be able to portray a hero who is inherently good, a stark contrast to some of the darker interpretations seen in previous DC films. Corenswet, who has a history of playing characters with deep emotional complexity, was seen as the perfect fit to bring this balance of wholesome hero and struggling alien to life.

The Physical and Mental Transformation for the Role

Stepping into the suit previously worn by legends requires a significant physical commitment. David Corenswet underwent an intense, months-long training regimen to achieve the physique of the Man of Steel.

Gaining 40 Pounds of Muscle

Corenswet’s transformation was substantial, with reports indicating he gained over 40 pounds of muscle for the role. His training focused on building a "lean, athletic, and believable Superman" rather than just massive bulk. His routine included a rigorous 4-day workout split, heavy resistance training, and specialized exercises to prepare for the physical demands of a superhero role, including wire work for the flying sequences.

The actor's preparation extended beyond the gym. He spoke about the mental aspect of his training, noting that the solitude and discipline required helped him connect with Clark Kent’s sense of isolation as an alien trying to be part of humanity. This commitment to both the physical and psychological dimensions of the character suggests a deeply considered performance, aiming to honor the legacy of Superman while offering a fresh, modern perspective.

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The New DCU Vision and The Ensemble Cast

The 2025 film, *Superman*, is more than just a solo adventure; it is the cornerstone of James Gunn and Peter Safran's new DC Universe. The movie will explore the hero's journey as he balances his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing in Smallville, Kansas, and Metropolis.

A Star-Studded Supporting Cast

The film features an impressive ensemble cast, introducing key characters who will shape the future of the DCU. This inclusion of multiple heroes and villains from the start is a major strategic difference from past DC efforts, immediately establishing a larger, interconnected world.

• Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane: The Emmy-winning star of *The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel* will play the tenacious Daily Planet reporter and Clark Kent's love interest.
• Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor: The brilliant but psychopathic archenemy of Superman, whose rivalry with the hero is central to the film's theme of extraordinary power versus human nature.
• Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen: The classic, enthusiastic photographer for the Daily Planet.
• Wendell Pierce as Perry White: The tough but fair editor-in-chief of the Daily Planet.
• María Gabriela de Faría as The Engineer (Angela Spica): A member of the villainous group known as The Authority, whose inclusion suggests a conflict that involves other super-powered individuals.

The Introduction of Other DC Heroes

Significantly, *Superman* will also feature several other DC heroes, indicating that Superman is not the first or only meta-human in this new universe. These characters will likely play a role in the film's central conflict, which many speculate will draw inspiration from storylines like *Superman vs. The Elite*.

• Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner/Green Lantern: A member of the Green Lantern Corps with a reputation for being abrasive and arrogant.
• Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl: The winged warrior with a complex history.
• Edi Gathegi as Mr. Terrific: A highly intelligent hero known as the "Third Smartest Man in the World."
• Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho: Rex Mason, an adventurer who can transform his body into any element.

Thematic Focus: Truth, Justice, and Kindness

James Gunn has repeatedly emphasized that his *Superman* movie will be a story about "truth, justice, and the American way," but with a modern, crucial emphasis on kindness. The film is set to explore the political and philosophical differences between Superman's noble ideals and Lex Luthor's extraordinary use of power for self-interest. It is a narrative designed to resonate with contemporary audiences by focusing on hope, optimism, and the simple, profound impact of a genuinely good person in a complicated world. This thematic approach, combined with David Corenswet's dedicated portrayal, is set to redefine the Man of Steel for a new generation of fans.