The pressure on James Gunn’s upcoming Superman: Legacy keeps on increasing, especially after the recent bombing of The Flash at the box office. Although Gunn has kept things in secrecy when it comes to the casting side of the film, new reports claim that there is allegedly fierce competition between the Skarsgard brothers’ regarding the role of Lex Luthor in the movie.
Although James Gunn hasn’t confirmed whether fans will witness Lex Luthor in the upcoming DCU entry or not, one of the Skarsgard brothers definitely has a big advantage if the reports are true.
Bill Skarsgard might end up surpassing Alexander Skarsgard in the race of Lex Luthor
Following Bill and Alexander Skarsgard’s performances in several critically acclaimed projects, the rumors of them being the two finalists for one of the greatest comic book villains don’t seem surprising. However, it seems that Bill Skarsgard might have a slight edge against his brother when it comes to villainous roles, as he has repeatedly pulled off the villain gig in projects like It and the recent John Wick: Chapter 4.
Although Alexander Skarsgard’s resume also comprises several gems, including his performance in Robert Eggers’ The Northman, his age might not end up being on his side. Considering that James Gunn’s Superman: Legacy will follow the journey of a young Clark Kent, they might also consider a younger actor for Lex Luthor in DCU. And keeping in mind that Alexander Skarsgard is 46 while Bill Skarsgard is in his early 30s, the It Star seems like the favorite among the two for the role of Lex Luthor.
James Gunn reveals his favorite Lex Luthor
Despite not confirming whether Lex Luthor might end up appearing in Superman: Legacy, James Gunn did reveal his favorite onscreen Lex Luthor. While speaking with Michael Rosenbaum, Gunn revealed that Rosenbaum’s version of Lex Luthor in Smallville was the best iteration of the character in live-action and when asked whether he was joking, Gunn clarified he was serious. He said,
“You are the best Lex, let’s admit it. We know you’re the best Lex. I’m not being funny, you’re definitely the best Lex. Definitely.”
It can’t be said for sure whether it will be one of the Skarsgard brothers who will end up taking the mantle of Luthor home. But it’s reasonable to assume DCU’s Lex Luthor might end up being more in line with Rosenbaum’s iteration of the character, and just like Superman, it will be more true to the source material.
Superman: Legacy will hit theatres on 11 July 2025.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
