Henry Cavill announced in October that he would return to the role of Superman again, in which he made his debut in 2013 in the film Man of Steel by Zack Snyder. The actor even left the popular series The Witcher, where he played the main role of Geralt of Rivia. It was a solid indicator that DC had big plans for Cavill, but they changed them at the last minute.

As the actor himself announced in a post on Instagram, his “turn to wear a cape has passed.”

“I have just had a meeting with James Gunn and Peter Safran and it’s sad news, everyone. 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, 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. For those who have been by my side through the years, we can mourn a bit, but then we must remember. Superman is still around,” wrote Cavill.

Director James Gunn and producer Peter Safran in October led the newly created Warner Bros. Discovery is a division of DC Studios, which is supposed to be the answer to Marvel Studios. They are now in charge of developing the new DC Cinematic Universe.

Along with Cavill’s statement, James Gunn wrote that the actor will not play Superman , as the new film will focus on the early part of the superhero’s life.

“Peter & 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,” Gunn said.