Which DC character is the perfect fit for Henry Cavill after Superman? From warriors to legends, here’s who he could play next.
Henry Cavill wasn’t just another Superman. He was the Superman for an entire generation. From the moment he donned the cape in Man of Steel (2013), he embodied the Kryptonian hero like few before him, blending power, vulnerability, and pure cinematic presence. That’s why his sudden exit from the DCU still feels like a real blow. But here’s the thing: Cavill’s story in DC doesn’t have to end just because he’s no longer Kal-El.
The DCU is evolving under James Gunn, and while a fresh take on Superman is coming, there’s no reason Cavill can’t return in another legendary role. He has the action-star physique, the commanding screen presence, and the fan loyalty to make an impact as a different character and maybe even one that lets him explore darker, more complex, or mythic personas in DC lore.
Henry Cavill as Superman in Batman vs Superman: Dawn of Justice | Credit: Warner Bros.
So, what if Cavill swapped the red cape for a power ring? A cowl? A celestial battle axe? From cosmic warriors to ancient gods, the DCU has plenty of roles tailor-made for him. Here are the best characters Henry Cavill could bring to life next because let’s be honest, a world without him in a superhero suit just doesn’t feel right. Here’s who Cavill should suit up as next.
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Batman swinging around the city | Credit: DC Comics
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Henry Cavill as Batman? That might sound like a bold choice, but hear me out for a second. Cavill has already proven he can handle a brooding, morally complex hero in The Witcher and Man of Steel, and his deep, commanding voice is perfect for the Dark Knight. DC is always experimenting with different versions of Batman, and with Batman: The Brave and the Bold introducing a new Caped Crusader, this could be Cavill’s chance to step into Gotham’s shadows.
Physically, Cavill has the build to make an intimidating Batman. He could bring a more tactical, brute-force approach to the role, similar to Ben Affleck’s version but with his own suave billionaire charm. Plus, imagine Cavill’s Bruce Wayne mentoring a younger Damian Wayne. It would add a fresh dynamic we haven’t seen in live-action before. If DC wants a Batman who can go toe-to-toe with gods and aliens, Cavill is the guy for the job.
2Cavill will bring a fresh twist with Blue Beetle
Blue Beetle in action | Credit: DC Comics
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While Blue Beetle (2023) introduced Jaime Reyes to the DCU, there’s still room for Ted Kord, the original genius behind the Blue Beetle tech. Henry Cavill could absolutely crush it as the charismatic, billionaire inventor with a heart of gold.
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Cavill’s known for his love of tech and gaming, so seeing him play a gadget-savvy hero who builds his own crime-fighting gear just makes sense. Ted Kord’s personality is a mix of Bruce Wayne’s intelligence and Tony Stark’s wit, and Cavill could bring the perfect balance of humor and heroism. Imagine him teaming up with Xolo Maridueña’s Jaime Reyes, mentoring the next generation while handling threats of his own. Plus, Ted Kord’s role could set up a Blue Beetle and Booster Gold buddy comedy down the line. Cavill sharing screen time with someone like Chris Pratt or Glen Powell as Booster Gold? Instant classic.
3Henry Cavill as Adam Strange: The space-faring hero
Adam Strange saving the day | DC Comics
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If Cavill wants to step into DC’s cosmic side, Adam Strange is the perfect fit. A swashbuckling space adventurer who gets zapped across the universe by the Zeta Beam, Strange is DC’s answer to Flash Gordon or Star-Lord. He’s got the intellect of a scientist, the skills of a warrior, and the luck of someone constantly thrown into wild cosmic battles.
This would be a great way to showcase Cavill’s versatility. He’d get to play a hero who isn’t just about brute strength but also strategy, survival instincts, and some good old-fashioned sci-fi action. Imagine him facing off against Thanagarians, teaming up with the Green Lantern Corps, or uncovering ancient cosmic secrets. It would be a fresh, high-energy role that lets Cavill shine in a new way, all the while still keeping that heroic charm.
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4Henry Cavill as a Green Lantern? The missed opportunity
Green Lantern’s heroic poses | Credit: DC Comics
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DC’s Lanterns series is locked in with Hal Jordan and John Stewart, and Nathan Fillion is already set to play Guy Gardner in James Gunn’s Superman. But let’s be honest: if casting had gone another way, Cavill would have been a total game-changer for the Green Lantern Corps.
Picture this: Cavill as Hal Jordan, a battle-hardened space officer patrolling the galaxy with unwavering determination. He’s got the perfect mix of charm, authority, and action-star energy to make Hal feel larger than life, bringing a more seasoned, no-nonsense take on the character. Or imagine him as Guy Gardner, flipping the script on his usual heroic roles to play a cocky, unpredictable wild card, still jacked (of course), still fearless, but with a swagger we haven’t seen from him before.
With Lanterns being pitched as a True Detective-style cosmic thriller, Cavill would have fit right into that gritty, high-stakes mystery vibe. The DCU passed on this one, but in another timeline, Cavill rocking the most powerful weapon in the universe would’ve been legendary.
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5Cavill’s take on Orion’s complex origin
Orion is always battle ready | Credit: DC Comics
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As Gunn searches for the next Darkseid, let’s talk about his son Orion. He isn’t just another superpowered warrior, he’s one of the most complex characters in DC lore. Born into destruction but raised for peace, he’s constantly at war with himself, battling his own violent instincts while trying to uphold justice. It’s the ultimate push-and-pull dynamic, and Cavill would totally nail it.
This role would give Cavill the chance to play a hero who isn’t purely noble or idealistic like Superman. Orion is edgy, intense, and unpredictable, and watching Cavill navigate that inner turmoil would be next-level. Plus, the visuals would be insane. Imagine him wielding the Astro-Harness, clashing with New Gods, and going full cosmic warrior against villains like Kalibak and Steppenwolf.
If DC ever brings Jack Kirby’s New Gods to the big screen, introducing Cavill as Orion would be a power move, giving him a role just as legendary as Superman, but with a darker, more mythic edge.
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6Cavill’s Apollo will break the internet
Apollo doesn’t hold back | Credit: DC Comics
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If Cavill wants to mix things up, Apollo would be a game-changer. As a key member of The Authority, he’s essentially a Superman-level powerhouse but with a harsher, more ruthless approach to justice. He doesn’t hold back, and unlike Superman, he’s willing to cross lines to protect the world.
Beyond his sheer power, Apollo is also one of DC’s most iconic LGBTQ+ heroes, sharing a deep, unbreakable bond with Midnighter, who is a Batman-like antihero. Cavill taking on this role wouldn’t just showcase his action-star intensity but also let him explore a character with a unique emotional depth.
With James Gunn already teasing The Authority in his DCU plans, Apollo’s big-screen debut is practically guaranteed. Cavill’s commanding presence and ability to play both heroic and brooding characters would make him the ultimate pick for this brutal, unstoppable solar god.
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7Cavill’s Hercules would shake Mount Olympus
Hercules | Credit: DC Comics
Cavill has already conquered myth and fantasy, from Immortals to The Witcher, so stepping into the role of DC’s Hercules feels like the next natural move. Unlike Marvel’s comedic take, DC’s Hercules is a battle-hardened warrior—a larger-than-life figure who has fought alongside and against Wonder Woman, Shazam, and the Justice League.
This version of Hercules is a regal yet ruthless demigod, shaped by centuries of war and divine struggles. Cavill would bring the perfect mix of nobility, strength, and raw power, making him a force to be reckoned with in the DCU. Imagine him leading mythic armies, throwing down with Wonder Woman, or even challenging Superman to a friendly (or not-so-friendly) test of strength.
With DC leaning into its mythological roots, introducing Cavill as the ultimate warrior-king of Olympus would be a legendary move and one that fans would definitely rally behind.
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8Cavill as Jor-El: A full circle moment
Jor-El: The father of Superman | Credit: DC Comics
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If DC wants to keep Cavill connected to Superman without making him Kal-El, casting him as Jor-El, Superman’s father, would be a poetic move. It would be a full-circle moment, letting Cavill shape the destiny of the next Superman while honoring his own legacy in the role
Jor-El could go two ways: a battle-hardened Kryptonian warrior like Man of Steel’s take or a brilliant, visionary scientist fighting to save his son and his people. Either version would let Cavill flex his regal presence and emotional depth, giving Jor-El a fresh, powerful edge. Whether he’s throwing hands in Kryptonian armor or delivering a heartfelt farewell as the planet crumbles, Cavill would make every moment unforgettable.
Imagine him in a stunning Kryptonian suit, delivering wisdom and gravitas as he sends his son to Earth. It would be an epic, heartfelt nod to his Superman era while giving him a fresh, influential role in the DCU’s future.
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9Cavill will turn Booster Gold into DC’s breakout star
Booster Gold steals the spotlight again | Credit: DC Comics
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Henry Cavill as Booster Gold might seem unexpected, but that’s exactly why it would work. Known as DC’s time-traveling, fame-hungry hero, Booster is a former athlete from the 25th century who steals advanced tech to become a superhero, more for clout than actual heroism (at first). Cavill, usually cast as noble and stoic figures, could flip the script and bring a fresh, comedic twist to his DCU return.
Booster Gold is cocky, charming, and always looking for the spotlight, but deep down, he evolves into a true hero. Cavill’s natural charisma and ability to balance action with humor would make him a perfect fit for this underrated fan-favorite. Plus, with James Gunn’s DCU leaning into lesser-known characters, a high-profile actor like Cavill could turn Booster Gold into a household name. Imagine him quipping his way through time-travel chaos—pure gold.
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10Cavill’s Mister Miracle will escape every expectation
Mister Miracle is freedom in motion | Credit: DC Comics
Henry Cavill as Mister Miracle would be next-level casting. Scott Free isn’t just any hero, he’s the greatest escape artist in the universe, a warrior raised in the nightmare world of Apokolips who breaks free from his fate. His story is all about defying expectations, making it the perfect role for Cavill, who knows a thing or two about escaping the shadow of the past.
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Mister Miracle isn’t just about power and skill; he’s got heart, trauma, and an unshakable will to survive. Cavill could bring serious emotional depth, balancing Scott’s laid-back, almost sarcastic attitude with the weight of his brutal past. Plus, seeing him team up with Big Barda (his absolute powerhouse of a wife) would be an unforgettable dynamic.
With DCU expanding into more ambitious, cosmic stories, Mister Miracle could be a scene-stealing addition, and Cavill, with his action-star presence and emotional range, would make the role truly legendary.
