Henry Cavill Superman Making Final Appearance? (2024)

By Charlene Badasie| Updated 7 months ago

Although Henry Cavill’s tenure as Superman is over, his iteration of the beloved superhero is referenced inBlue Beetle. Speaking on the Nestor Cine desde Hollywood YouTube channel, director Angel Manuel Soto said that Zack Snyder’s films had significantly influenced his work, and every mention of Cavill’s Man of Steel was made as a mark of respect.

Referring to Zack Synder’s previous comments about taking his son to seeBlue Beetle, Soto said, “Waking up in Mexico to the news that Snyder wants to see [Blue Beetle] too, a director that I respect so much, that his films are an immense influence… Even inBlue Beetle, there are some references toMan of Steelthat we made out of honor and respect for the work and art of Zack Snyder.

Henry Cavill won’t make a cameo in Blue Beetle, but the film’s director says there is a reference to his 2013 Man of Steel movie.

“Also, seeing David Ayer sharing it… It’s like, ‘Wow, brother!’ How nice it feels to have that support from people that one respects and that the fans also respect,” Soto continued. Exactly how the inspired Superman references fit intoBlue Beetleremains unknown. They could be artistic elements inspired by theMan of Steelmovie or more straightforward nods to Henry Cavill’s portrayal.

Yet, with the impending DCU reboot, alluding to the former Henry Cavill’s Superman might be problematic, especially considering Blue Beetle’s anticipated involvement in the DCU’s revamp. Should a reference be right on the nose, audiences must factor in that the movie’s storyline might not be entirely canon whenSuperman: Legacyhits the screens.

“Waking up in Mexico to the news that Snyder wants to see [Blue Beetle] too, a director that I respect so much, that his films are an immense influence… Even inBlue Beetle, there are some references toMan of Steelthat we made out of honor and respect for the work and art of Zack Snyder.

Angel Manuel Soto, Blue Beetle director

Blue Beetleis directed by Angel Manuel Soto from a script by Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer. This movie is significant because it marks the first major superhero project centered around a Latino character. Initially, it was intended to be exclusive to Max, but during the reshuffle, which saw Henry Cavill lose his role as Superman, Warner Bros. and DC Films decided to give it a theatrical release instead.

Xolo Mariduena takes on the role of Jamie Reyes/Blue Beetle. Bruna Marquezine and Belissa Escobedo play the parts of Penny, his love interest, and Milagros, his younger sister, respectively. Additionally, Harvey Guillen plays Doctor Sanchez, a scientist who works for Victoria, while Becky G voices Khaji-Da, an entity that imbues and controls the Scarab. Blue Beetle is set for release on August 18.

Henry Cavill’s DC History

Henry Cavill’s tenure as Krypton’s Last Son has been marked by highs and lows. The reactions were mixed when it was announced that the British actor would don Superman’s cape in 2011. Cavill debuted in 2013’sMan of Steel, directed by Zack Snyder. The film delved into the origins of Clark Kent, tracing his transformation into the heroic figure known as Superman.

Henry Cavill’s performance garnered praise for his physicality and captivating screen presence, despite some criticism for a perceived lack of emotional depth. Following the film’s success, Cavill’s Superman became a crucial figure in subsequent DCEU films. He reprised his role in 2016’sBatman v Superman: Dawn of JusticeandJustice Leaguein 2017.

While DCEU aimed to create a cohesive cinematic universe, with Henry Cavill’s Superman serving as one of its cornerstones, the reception of these films varied. After the release ofJustice League, uncertainty surrounded Cavill’s future as Superman. Reports surfaced about contract negotiations between the actor and Warner Bros. reaching an impasse.

This fueled speculation about whether Henry Cavill would continue donning the iconic suit. While some fans rallied for his continuation in the role, others were ready for a fresh approach. Despite the uncertainty, Cavill’s Superman made an unexpected cameo appearance inBlack Adam, which was supposed to mark his return to the DC superhero franchise.

However, everything changed when James Gunn and Peter Safan were appointed co-CEOs of the newly formed DC Studios. The pair announced that the DC film slate would be reset withThe Flashand that Henry Cavill would no longer appear as Superman.