Looks like British actor Nicholas Hoult is set to take on the iconic role of Superman’s arch-nemesis, Lex Luthor, in the highly anticipated film “Superman: Legacy,” directed by James Gunn.
Hoult will add his name to the distinguished list of actors who have previously portrayed Luthor on screen, a roster that includes Gene Hackman, Kevin Spacey, John Shea, Michael Rosenbaum, Clancy Brown, Jon Cryer, Michael Cudlitz, Giancarlo Esposito, and Jesse Eisenberg.
Thankfully, it didn’t take legendary Aussie pop culture artist BossLogic to show us what he could look like in the role and if it’s anything like this, we approve!
In #nicholashoult I trust! #lexluthor #SUPERMANLEGACY pic.twitter.com/z6IBtJf7mT
— BossLogic (@Bosslogic) November 21, 2023
The actor has reportedly been in contention for the role for several months, having previously been a runner-up for the role of Batman in Matt Reeves’ vision before Robert Pattinson secured the part. Other actors such as Alexander and Bill Skarsgard were also rumored to be in consideration earlier in the year.
Thanks to the efforts of our talented crew, who never lost faith during the longest strikes in Hollywood history, and who never let their foot off the pedal, continuing to barrel forward, creating the most amazing character and set designs I’ve seen in my entire career,… pic.twitter.com/ntnEbA2fC0
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) November 11, 2023
Joining Hoult in the cast are David Corenswet in the titular role of Superman, and Emmy winner Rachel Brosnahan as the iconic Lois Lane. The ensemble further includes Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner/Green Lantern, Maria Gabriela de Faria as The Engineer, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Edi Gathegi as Mr. Terrific, and Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho.
Filming is slated to commence early next year, with the worldwide release of “Superman: Legacy” scheduled for July 11th, 2025. As anticipation builds for this latest addition to the Superman film legacy, fans are eager to see how Hoult will bring his own interpretation to the complex character of Lex Luthor.
