And the next Superman is...

James Gunn's upcoming DC Studios film, Superman: Legacy, is still searching for its leading man. While the production team is considering some "really great choices", Gunn says that they have not yet found the perfect fit for Clark Kent. However, he did explain what qualities the ideal candidate should possess and the Internet might have some answers.

Hunt for the next Superman

In an interview with Variety at the Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3 premiere, Gunn stated that the next Superman must embody all the humanity of Clark Kent while also portraying an alien. He added that the actor should exude kindness and compassion, qualities that make Superman so beloved by fans.

Gunn emphasised that the actor should be someone who audiences would want to give a hug to.

Despite rumours that Gunn might consider Guardians star Chris Pratt for the role, the director clarified that Pratt is not in the running (and after his recent escapades as a popular Italian plumber, thank god). Gunn joked that if Pratt were a few years younger, he might be considered.

Fans have been actively speculating about who could be the next Superman, with many taking to Twitter to share their thoughts. Some suggestions have been seemingly perfect, while others have been downright absurd:

Waystar Royco CE-Bro Kendall Roy AKA Jeremy Strong himself, seems to be one such popular pick from the lot...

And Scott Pilgrim himself - Michael Cera - seemed to be another lighthearted nomination...

While others had a certain recent Academy Award for Best Actor in mind...

Some seem convinced that Gunn let the person best suited for the role slide away...

While others feel that Cavill was out of touch with the character and Gunn was prospecting over the shelf-life for the role...

Yet others felt inclined to bring up the late Superman, Christopher Reeve himself, as the only appropriate option for the role..

Meanwhile, otakus shared a moment in the limelight with their own nominee...

And AI software also pitched in to the efforts...

Though overall, the sentiment behind Gunn's inspiration for the character seems to be boding well with fans...

Gunn's involvement in the project was announced in December, with his role as the director confirmed in March. He recently revealed that production is underway, with costumes and production design in progress.

While the search for the next Superman continues, fans eagerly await news of who will take on the iconic role. With Gunn's vision and the DC Universe's rich history, there is no doubt that the film will be a hit among fans.

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