LOS ANGELES (AP) — Actor Nicholas Hoult offered fresh insight into his portrayal of iconic villain Lex Luthor during a Q&A session on the Warner Bros. lot following the “Superman” trailer premiere.
Hoult, who was confirmed for the role by director James Gunn in November 2023, emphasized his character’s complexity in the upcoming DC Universe film. “The thing about this Lex that was most exciting to me was being in a James Gunn universe,” Hoult said, highlighting the emotional depth and scope of the project.
The actor suggested his interpretation of Superman’s nemesis will challenge audiences’ perceptions. “Even though you perhaps don’t agree with his process, there’s an element where you can understand on some levels where he’s coming from,” Hoult explained, describing Luthor’s belief that his vision might better serve humanity.
Hoult revealed he drew inspiration from various comic storylines, particularly “Lex Luthor: Man of Steel.” “It’s about taking from all the previous interpretations of the character and the comics and building upon it,” he said during an earlier appearance on the “Happy Sad Confused” podcast.
Director Gunn, known for debunking casting rumors on social media, confirmed Hoult’s role last year through an Instagram post. “We went out to dinner to celebrate and discuss how we can create a Lex that will be different from anything you’ve seen before and will never forget,” Gunn wrote.
The film marks the first entry in DC Studios’ new universe under Gunn’s leadership. David Corenswet stars as Superman alongside Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane. The cast also includes Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific, Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern Guy Gardner, and Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl.
Hoult emphasized Luthor’s strategic approach to confronting Superman. “Obviously he’s smart and ruthless, and he has to outmaneuver Superman on certain levels because he can’t match him in others,” the actor said.
The film draws from several comic sources, including “All-Star Superman” and “Birthright,” though Hoult noted “Lex Luthor: Man of Steel” particularly resonated with his interpretation of the character.
Other additions to the cast include Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho, María Gabriela de Faría as Engineer, and Frank Grillo as Rick Flag Sr., expanding the DC Universe’s scope in this new iteration.
“Superman” represents a fresh start for the DC franchise under Gunn’s creative direction, with Hoult’s Luthor positioned as a complex antagonist whose motivations might resonate with audiences despite his villainous actions.
