Hugh Laurie was first slated to be in Bryan Singer’s 2006 film Superman Returns as Perry White, the Daily Planet’s editor-in-chief. However, he was forced to drop out of the project due to his prior commitment to the Fox medical drama, House, which had become a major hit, running for 8 seasons.
Henry Cavill was also almost cast for Superman Returns but he fell short in his audition. Cavill eventually got his chance to play Superman in Man of Steel, in 2013 and has risen to be a favorite actor ever since. Cavill’s Man of Steel cast was one of the best things that ever happened to DCEU.
Hugh Laurie Lost His Superman Returns Role Due to House
Hugh Laurie was first slated to be in Bryan Singer’s 2006 film Superman Returns as Perry White, the Daily Planet’s editor-in-chief. But according to SlashFilms, because of his previous commitment to the critically acclaimed Fox medical drama House, he was compelled to abandon the $391M project.
Although Frank Langella was subsequently cast in Laurie’s place, he earned positive reviews for his portrayal of the tough yet understanding White. However, many fans still wonder what it would have been like to see Laurie play the iconic grizzled veteran journalist in the movie. Moreover, a sequel was planned but was canceled in favor of a full franchise reboot in the form of 2013’s Man of Steel.
Although Laurie has regrets about having to miss out on Superman Returns, he has also expressed admiration for Langella’s performance. It is certainly intriguing to consider how Superman Returns would have turned out differently if Hugh Laurie had portrayed Perry White. It was also possible that the film would have been an even more successful film if it had such a talented actor among its cast.
Henry Cavill Was Almost Cast as Superman in Superman Returns
In the 2006 movie Superman Returns, Henry Cavill was considered for the role of Superman. Cavill auditioned for the role of Superman and even made it to the final round of casting. However, in the end, Bryan Singer ultimately chose to cast Brandon Routh, who was closer in age to Christopher Reeve, the actor who portrayed Superman in the beloved Richard Donner movies.
Despite his disappointment at not being cast as Superman, Cavill went on to enjoy a prosperous Hollywood career. He played Superman in a number of DC movies, including Man of Steel, Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice, Justice League, and Black Adam. He is also starting his own franchise, the Warhammer 40,000.
It’s also fun to speculate about possible outcomes for the movie if Henry Cavill had been chosen for the role. Being the youngest actor to play the part in a live-action movie, he would have given the character a unique and exciting viewpoint. Nevertheless, it’s also evident that Routh was excellent in the part, and Superman Returns turned out to be a fun and well-made movie.
