Henry Cavill exits Superman role after nine years

British actor, Henry Cavill has announced that he will not be reprising his role as DC Studios’ hero, Superman.

The 39-year-old shared the “sad” news via his Instagram page on Wednesday, stating that the decision was reached after a meeting with the studio’s new bosses, James Gunn and Peter Safran.

The new development comes two months after Henry announced his return to the franchise, as he was instructed by the studio.

“I have just had a meeting with James Gunn and Peter Safran and it’s sad news, everyone,” he wrote. “I will, after all, not be returning as Superman. After being told by the studio to announce my return back in October, prior to their hire.

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“This news isn’t the easiest, but that’s life. The changing of the guard is something that happens. I respect that. James and Peter have a universe to build. I wish them and all involved with the new universe the best of luck, and the happiest of fortunes.”

Cavill expressed his appreciation to fans of the superhero character, who have shown him support since he first starred as Superman in 2013.

“Superman is still around,” he continued. “Everything he stands for still exists, and the examples he sets for us are still there! My turn to wear the cape has passed, but what Superman stands for never will. It’s been a fun ride with you all, onwards and upwards.”

Cavill first featured as Superman in the 2013 ‘Man Of Steel’ movie, he also performed alongside Ben Affleck in ‘Batman v Superman’ released in 2016. His last reprisal of the role was in the 2017 blockbuster, Justice League.

Explaining the reason for the change, Gunn revealed via tweets on Wednesday that the studio was working on a brand new slate.

His statement read, “Peter and I have a DC slate ready to go, which we couldn’t be more over-the-moon about; we’ll be able to share some exciting information about our first projects at the beginning of the new year.

“Among those on the slate is Superman. In the initial stages, our story will be focusing on an earlier part of Superman’s life, so the character will not be played by Henry Cavill. But we just had a great meeting with Henry and we’re big fans and we talked about a number of exciting possibilities to work together in the future.”