How New 'Superman' Movie Will Change Now Henry Cavill Won't Return to DC

In October, DC fans were ecstatic to learn that Henry Cavill would be coming back to play Superman in the superhero film franchise, but their joy was short-lived as the actor then announced on December 15 that he wouldn't be returning.

The DC Universe is being given a new lease of life by DC Studios heads James Gunn and Peter Safran, and the pair have been making plans for the future of the franchise.

This has so far meant that Patty Jenkins' Wonder Woman 3 has been put on hold, and now also that Cavill will no longer be playing Superman, despite appearing in the post-credit scene of Black Adam.

How New Superman Movie Will Be Different

Gunn took to Twitter to confirm the news that Cavill wouldn't be back as Superman and in his announcement he revealed that he and Safran plan to reboot the character entirely.

Rather than return to Cavill's Superman, their version of the character will be much younger. Reports from The Hollywood Reporter suggest that a new film will focus on his time as Daily Planet reporter Clark Kent.

In his statement, Gunn wrote: "Peter & 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."

In response to fans, Gunn said that he would be writing the script for the film and that it does not yet have a director. He also assured fans that the film wouldn't focus on Superman's origin story.

Will Henry Cavill Return to Superman?

Although Cavill won't be back as Superman that doesn't mean that the actor is completely out of DC as Gunn shared that he and Safran had "talked about a number of exciting possibilities to work together in the future."

Whether this means that Cavill will take on a new role entirely in the DC Universe, or that he might return as Superman after the character has aged up, has yet to be seen, but Gunn said that he and Safran were "big fans" of the actor.

Newsweek has contacted Cavill's representatives for further comment.

What Has Henry Cavill Said About Not Returning?

Cavill took to Instagram to share a statement with fans confirming he wouldn't be back as Clark Kent, despite his previous announcement in October saying he would return.

He explained that he had spoken with Gunn and Safran and that the decision had been made that he wouldn't return to the role, but he tried to remain positive as he reminded viewers that he may be gone, but Superman is still around.

His full statement read: "I have just had a meeting with James Gunn and Peter Safran and it is sad news, everyone. 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.

"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 went on: "For those who have been by my side through the years...we can mourn a bit, but then we must remember... Superman is still around.

"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. It's been a fun ride with you all, onwards and upwards."