James Gunn Plans New Superman Movie As Henry Cavill Hangs Up His Cape

On Wednesday night, James Gunn revealed that he is planning a new Superman movie... one that won't involve Henry Cavill.

Although fans were excited to see Cavill step back into the role after he appeared at the end of 2022's "Black Adam" starring Dwayne Johnson, it seems that both Cavill and The Rock's time in the DC franchise has come to an end.

In a Twitter thread published on Wednesday, Gunn wrote, “Peter and I have a DC slate ready to go, which we couldn’t be more over-the-moon about; we’ll be able to share some exciting information about our first projects at the beginning of the new year."

“Among those on the slate is Superman. In the initial stages, our story will be focusing on an earlier part of Superman’s life, so the character will not be played by Henry Cavill," he added.

“But we just had a great meeting with Henry and we’re big fans and we talked about a number of exciting possibilities to work together in the future,” he concluded.

In the comments, Gunn also replied to questions from numerous fans. He told one fan that "I am writing (and have been for a while). We don’t know who is directing yet."

When another fan expressed hope that it wasn't an origin story, Gunn responded, "No way."

When asked if Ben Affleck would direct, Gunn replied, "Met with Ben yesterday precisely because he wants to direct & we want him to direct; we just have to find the right project."

Many fans wondered if directing a film would impact Affleck's future as Batman, which still seems up in the air. Affleck has already filmed his scenes for "The Flash," which hits theaters on June 16, 2023.

In an Instagram post published on Wednesday, December 14, Henry Cavill confirmed that his time as the Man of Steel had officially come to an end.

"I have just had a meeting with James Gunn and Peter Safran and it's sad news, everyone," he began. "I will, after all, not be returning as Superman."

"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 continued. "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 the happiest of fortunes," he added before addressing the fans who were disappointed that he was hanging up his cape for good.

"For those who have been by my side through the years....we can mourn for a bit but then we must remember.... Superman is still around," he continued. "Everything he stands for still exists, and the examples he sets for us are still there!"

"My turn to wear the cape has passed, but what Superman stands for never will," he concluded. "It's been a fun ride with you all, onwards and upwards."

In the comments, Marvel's "The Eternals" and Star Wars' "Obi-Wan Kenobi" actor Kumail Nanjiani wrote, “I’m sorry to hear this but I’m excited to see whatever you do next. Lovely meeting you the other night.”

Dany Garcia, the ex-wife of Dwayne Johnson and co-founder of his Seven Bucks Productions company (which produced “Black Adam”) wrote, “You are and will always be our Superman and you are, of course so much more. Here's to the brilliance that lies before you.”

Earlier this week, filmmaker Patty Jenkins also gave an update on the status of her Star Wars movie, "Rogue Squadron," and insisted she did not walk away from "Wonder Woman 3," which is no longer moving forward at DC. Those interested can read her lengthy statement by clicking here.