Since James Gunn decided to introduce Superman: Legacy as a total reboot of the DC universe, we have been getting multiple updates about the film regularly. These have been bringing casting reports for potential actors to play various roles in the film, which offers a unique opportunity to expand the Superman mythos. Among these is a recent report that Kurt Russell, who played Star-Lord’s father in the MCU, is interested in playing Superman’s biological father in Gunn’s DC Universe project, Superman: Legacy.
Russell recently had an opportunity to speak with ComicBook about his ambition to “take on Marlon Brando” in response to rumors that he would play Jor-El in the upcoming Superman reboot film. For those who do not know, Brando played Jor-El in the Superman and Superman II movies.
Kurt Russell’s Exciting Quest to Be Superman’s Father in Superman: Legacy
Kurt Russell, 72, has made a name for himself throughout his illustrious career by being able to completely transform himself for a variety of roles. His exceptional acting skills were on full display in the roles of ‘The Hangman’ in The Hateful Eight and ‘Snake Plissken’ in Escape from New York. Now that he is determined to play the beloved character Jor-El, we can expect nothing less than another enthralling performance.
He recently boasted, alluding to the iconic Richard Donner Superman film, in a conversation with ComicBook. Following a hearty laugh, the actor went on to say,
“Yeah! Yeah, I’ll take on Marlon Brando! I mean there was something awesome about the way he was just looking around – I don’t care that he was looking at his lines – he’s crazy-great to watch!”
In response to the rumors, he acknowledged that even though he had not heard anything official, it might be possible to approach Jor-El from a different angle:
“You know what: we don’t know a lot about Jor-El. Maybe there’s a version… I never heard this, so I don’t know. James Gunn was a blast to work with, though, so you never know.”
As the father (Ego the Living Planet) of Chris Pratt’s Star-Lord in the MCU and the main antagonist of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, Russell collaborated with James Gunn to play another superhero father figure. Thus, he would be a great fit to play Clark Kent’s earthly father.
All You Need to Know About James Gunn’s Superman: Legacy
James Gunn, who helmed Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy and DC Comics’ The Suicide Squad, will direct the upcoming Superman film. We learned from Deadline that the director would co-write the screenplay with Peter Safran. DC Comics began looking for a new actor because Gunn has previously stated that his Superman will be younger than his “forties”. He tweeted:
Yeah but people are speculating about both ages. All I ever said was Superman was younger than in his forties and Batman MIGHT be a couple years older than Superman.
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) February 17, 2023
Conversely, Henry Cavill revealed in December 2022 (via Deadline) that he would not be playing Superman again, admitting:
“I have just had a meeting with James Gunn and Peter Safran and it is sad news, everyone. My turn to wear the cape has passed, but what Superman stands for never will.”
According to a November 2023 Deadline report, Nicholas Hoult, a former cast member of the X-Men, will portray Lex Luthor, Superman’s adversary. Also, The Hollywood Reporter claimed that Skyler Gisondo, who is most known for his work on The Righteous Gemstones, has been cast as Jimmy Olsen. As per the outlet, Sara Sampaio has been assigned to play Lex Luthor’s assistant, Eve Teschmacher.
Moreover, according to Variety, the script
“Will focus on the character’s life as a cub reporter in the fictional city of Metropolis.”
Superman: Legacy is the first film in Warner Bros.’ rebooted DC Universe to center on the titular comic book hero. It introduces a new version of the Man of Steel following Henry Cavill’s departure from the role.
Superman: Legacy is scheduled to be released on July 11, 2025.
