Superman has a new biggest fan—and it’s a former Man of Steel himself.
Brandon Routh, who famously portrayed the iconic DC superhero in Superman Returns (2006), is giving his full support—and plenty of tears—to David Corenswet, the 32-year-old star of James Gunn’s Superman reboot.
“I cried no less than three times,” Routh confessed during a heartfelt interview with Variety. “David is fantastic.”
Routh Applauds Corenswet’s Performance
Routh, now 45, shared how deeply the new film moved him, especially during scenes that mirrored the emotional depth of Clark Kent’s dual identity.
“I really got into it watching him navigate those tricky Superman moments, especially his first conversation with Lois and Clark in the apartment,” he said.
“And all the family stuff—it really hit me.”
Routh praised the film’s balance of action and heart, calling it a “big movie” that packed in both spectacle and emotion. He even plans to see it again.
Hope for the New DC Universe
As a veteran of the franchise, Routh expressed excitement for the future of the DC Universe (DCU), which is now being steered by James Gunn.
“A successful launch with this is just good for everybody who wants more of what DC has to offer,” he said.
“There are a lot of great properties that can be explored.”
Inside Superman: What the Film Delivers
Directed by James Gunn, Superman introduces a fresh take on Clark Kent, played by David Corenswet, as he struggles to balance his human upbringing and Kryptonian heritage while facing off against a powerful new version of Lex Luthor, portrayed by Nicholas Hoult.
Corenswet Was Encouraged by Former Supermen—But Not Advised
Though Superman marks Corenswet’s first time donning the red cape, he revealed he received heartfelt letters from former Supermen Henry Cavill and Tyler Hoechlin. But surprisingly, neither gave him any performance tips.
“Both of them, interestingly, said in their own words, ‘I’m not gonna try to give you any tips,’” Corenswet told Heart.
“That’s a very Superman thing—he’s not into dictating how others should be.”
Still, the support meant a lot.
“They were very encouraging,” he added. “We had a lovely exchange. They told me to have fun with it—which is exactly the spirit of Superman.”
A Powerful Passing of the Cape
With Routh’s tearful approval and the encouragement of Superman alumni, David Corenswet seems to have truly stepped into the boots of the Man of Steel—with heart, humility, and hope.
As the new DCU unfolds, one thing’s for sure: The legacy of Superman is in good hands.
