DC Studios has pulled the role of Superman from Henry Cavill, less than two months after announcing his return to the role.
Cavill said, “I met James Gunn and Peter Safran and learned the sad news, I’m not coming back to play Superman.” He added: “After the production company told me that I could announce my return in October, before signing the contract with me, this news is not easy for me, but that’s the way life is.”
The British actor added that he doesn’t have any hostile feelings and stated on his Instagram account: “Changing actors is something that happens often and I respect that.”
“I wish the team good luck,” he concluded.
The British actor had released a video clip in which he said to his fans: “I officially announce my return as Superman”.
Cavill played the legendary role in the film ‘Man of Steel’ in 2013, as well as in the film ‘Batman vs. Superman’, opposite Ben Affleck, in 2016, and in ‘Justice League’ in 2017.
After the announcement, predictions spread among fans that the actor was ready to play James Bond, if the director invited him.
Cavill, 39, also announced his departure from Netflix series ‘The Magician’ at the end of October, as he will be replaced by Liam Hemsworth.
Producer James Gunn tweeted on Wednesday, “Peter and I have a shortlist, we are excited about it and will be announcing some exciting information about our first projects early in the new year, including the film ‘Superman’. The story will focus about the early stages of Superman’s life at the outset, and won’t embody the Henry Cavill character.
He added: “We had a great meeting with Henry and admire him, and talked about a number of future joint projects.”