James Gunn announces the Superman saga

In the course of the second season of "Peacemaker", James Gunn officially announced that the so-called "Superman saga" will play a central role in the new DCU.

In an interview with the Hollywood Reporter, Gunn revealed that work on his next story has already been completed. More specifically, we are talking about "Superman 2" with the title "Super Family Film", which Gunn will also direct again. Which other projects the "Superman saga" will include remains a secret for the time being. It is conceivable that the "Supergirl" film planned for 2026 is also part of it – possibly depending on whether David Corenswet's new Superman appears in it. It is certainly conceivable, as Supergirl, played by Milly Alcock, has already made a guest appearance in "Superman".

At least it is confirmed that "Peacemaker" is part of the new saga. Gunn describes season 2 as "incredibly important" for the future of the DCU. Gunn is particularly enthusiastic about the variety of characters:

"Lots of guest stars coming up, lots of characters that are showing up that we've already met in "Superman". I don't think there's anything that I've ever done that I love more than this season of "Peacemaker", so I'm so excited for people to see it."

The new season premieres on August 21. Gunn and Safran continue to rely on a close integration of cinema and TV to bring their new DC universe forward.

From Kirk Alyn to David Corenswet: An overview of the most famous Superman actors

Since his first comic book publication in 1938, Superman has been one of the most recognizable characters in pop culture. The "Man of Steel" has left his mark on generations of readers, viewers and moviegoers – and has been portrayed time and again by actors who have brought their own interpretation to the iconic blue suit with red cape. Every era has had its "Superman" – from the pioneers of the 1940s to David Corenswet, who will take on the character in the newly established DC universe.

Kirk Alyn: The first Superman on the big screen

In 1948, the serials boom produced the first feature-length Superman. Kirk Alyn played the hero in the chapters "Superman" (1948) and "Atom Man vs. Superman" (1950). Although he is often forgotten today, Alyn laid the foundations for the visual representation of the character. Back then, the effects were simple – flight sequences were replaced by animation – but Alyn's charming idealism set the tone for actors to come.

Christopher Reeve: the benchmark of a generation

For many fans, Christopher Reeve is the Superman. In "Superman: The Movie" (1978) and three sequels, he perfectly combined Clark Kent's likeable clumsiness with Superman's heroic charisma. Reeves' performance brought human depth, humor and a believable emotional level to the character. His famous line "You'll believe a man can fly" became the trademark of the film – and a benchmark for all its successors.

Dean Cain: the TV Superman of the 90s

The series "Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman" (1993-1997) gave the character a more modern, romantic touch. Dean Cain played an approachable, less aloof Superman who spent more time than Clark Kent in relationship stories. Together with Teri Hatcher's Lois Lane, the series became an international success and brought Superman closer to a younger audience.

Tom Welling: the hero without a cape

In "Smallville" (2001-2011), Tom Welling played the young Clark Kent before his final transformation into Superman. The series focused on his origins, the development of his powers and his moral maturation. Welling never wore the suit in full form, but his version shaped an entire generation – and proved that Superman stories also work as coming-of-age dramas.

Brandon Routh: The brief return

With "Superman Returns" (2006), director Bryan Singer attempted to follow on directly from Christopher Reeve's films. Brandon Routh deliberately played in the spirit of Reeve, but brought his own gentle touch. Although the film received mixed reviews, for many fans Routh remained a respectful homage to the Superman of the 70s and 80s. He later returned as an aged Superman in the "Arrowverse" crossover episode Crisis on Infinite Earths.

Henry Cavill: the modern man of steel

In 2013, Henry Cavill took on the role in Zack Snyder's "Man of Steel". His Superman was darker, physically imposing and more characterized by inner conflicts than previous versions. In "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice" (2016) and "Justice League" (2017/2021), Cavill remained the central figure of the "Snyderverse". Despite mixed reactions to the tone of his films, Cavill is considered by many to be the epitome of a modern, powerful Superman.

David Corenswet The future of the DCU

In 2025, David Corenswet slipped into the role for the first time in James Gunn's "Superman" (originally announced as Superman: Legacy). Corenswet, known from series such as "The Politician" and "Hollywood", portrayed the hero in a more optimistic and brighter light – closer to the classic comic book template.

A symbol that remains

Each of these actors brought their own facet to the role – from Kirk Alyn's pioneering spirit to Christopher Reeves' iconic interpretation and Henry Cavill's modern, thoughtful version. With David Corenswet, a new era is now on the horizon that could once again define the "Man of Steel" for a new generation. No matter how the portrayal changes: Superman remains a symbol of hope, justice and the belief that good can prevail.