The DC Universe is abuzz with excitement as James Gunn’s Superman approaches its July 11, 2025 release, starring David Corenswet as the new Man of Steel. Amidst the hype, a viral photo featuring both Corenswet and Henry Cavill, the former Superman of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), has sparked heated debates among fans on X and Reddit. The image, reportedly taken at a DC Studios event in late 2024, captures the two actors side by side, offering a rare visual comparison of the past and present Supermen. As someone who’s followed both actors’ journeys, I’ll break down the good, the bad, and the context of this photo, letting you decide which Superman reigns supreme in this symbolic passing of the cape.
Let’s start with the positives. The photo, first shared by @DCUUpdates on X, shows Corenswet and Cavill standing together, both in casual attire but exuding charisma. Corenswet, at 31, looks every bit the part of a modern Superman, with a chiseled jawline, broad shoulders, and a youthful energy that aligns with Gunn’s vision of a hopeful, early-career Clark Kent. His tousled hair and easy smile evoke the classic charm of Christopher Reeve, a deliberate nod to the character’s roots, as Gunn mentioned in a 2024 Variety interview. Cavill, 42, remains a striking figure, his rugged handsomeness and muscular build a testament to the gritty, stoic Superman he portrayed in Man of Steel (2013), Batman v Superman (2016), and Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021). The lighting in the photo highlights Cavill’s piercing gaze, a reminder of why fans campaigned for his return after his exit post-Black Adam in 2022, as noted by The Hollywood Reporter.
Now, the downsides. The photo’s composition doesn’t do either actor justice. Corenswet, while tall at 6’4”, appears slightly slouched, diminishing his imposing presence as Superman. His casual hoodie and jeans, while relatable, lack the gravitas fans expect from the Man of Steel, especially next to Cavill, who’s dressed in a sharper blazer. The angle also casts an unflattering shadow on Corenswet’s face, obscuring the S-curl that’s become a hallmark of his Superman look, as seen in Fandango’s recent promo images. Cavill, on the other hand, looks a bit stiff, his smile forced, perhaps reflecting the bittersweet nature of seeing his successor take over. The background—a bland conference room—does little to elevate the moment, making the photo feel more like a corporate snapshot than a historic meeting of two Supermen, a sentiment echoed by fans on Reddit who called it “underwhelming.”
Context matters here. Cavill’s tenure as Superman, while critically divisive, earned a loyal fanbase for its grounded, emotional depth, with his performance in Man of Steel grossing $668 million worldwide, per Box Office Mojo. His exit, following creative differences with WBD after Gunn’s 2022 appointment as DC Studios co-head, left fans heartbroken, especially after his brief return in Black Adam’s post-credits scene. Corenswet, a relative newcomer known for The Politician and Pearl, steps into big shoes, but early reactions to his suit reveal—first leaked in May 2024 by Cleveland.com—have been positive, with fans on X praising its bright, comic-accurate design. The photo captures a symbolic handover, but the awkward framing fuels debates: does Corenswet’s fresh-faced optimism outshine Cavill’s seasoned intensity, or does Cavill’s proven gravitas overshadow his successor?
Fan reactions are split. On X, @SupermanFanatic wrote, “Corenswet looks like a kid next to Cavill. Henry IS Superman!” Meanwhile, @DCRebirth2025 countered, “David’s got the classic vibe we need. Cavill had his time.” The photo’s timing also stirs tension amid the Shuster estate’s lawsuit against WBD, refiled in New York state court in April 2025, which threatens the film’s global release over international copyright claims, as reported by Reuters. Some fans speculate the photo was a strategic move by WBD to unify the fanbase, showing respect to Cavill while hyping Corenswet.
Ultimately, the photo is a mixed bag—a historic moment marred by poor execution. Cavill’s commanding presence reminds us of a Superman who carried the DCEU’s weight, while Corenswet’s youthful promise hints at a brighter DCU future. But the image fails to capture the magic of either era, leaving fans to judge based on nostalgia versus potential. What do you think—does Cavill still hold the cape, or is Corenswet ready to fly? Share your thoughts on X and let the debate continue as we count down to Superman’s release.
