He’s familiar with the hairless aesthetic.Image: DC Comics/Warner Bros
With James Gunn’s recent announcement that Superman: Legacy was on track for its intended July 11, 2025 release date, it’s not surprising that we’re getting more casting news now that the strikes are over. Nicholas Hoult, recently seen ripping limbs onscreen in Renfield—but also a previous wearer of the bald look, in 2015’s Mad Max: Fury Road, will play Lex Luthor.
What Does James Gunn Want from His Superman Movie? | io9 Interview
Deadline broke the news, reporting that “a movie star was always eyed for this role after Gunn selected fresh face David Corenswet in the title role, and Emmy winner Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane. The studio wanted to go through the casting process after the SAG-AFTRA strike of landing an actor to play Luthor.”
Hoult’s casting as the iconic Superman villain comes not long after a more deep-cut character was announced: María Gabriela de Faría as Angela “The Engineer” Spica, presumably another villain though Gunn himself softened that characterization by noting “‘Villain’ is such a disparaging term!” in a welcome post for the actor on Instagram.
Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.