Behind the Cape: Nicholas Hoult and David Corenswet Forge an Unlikely Bond
The world has seen Superman and Lex Luthor face off for decades — but what happens when the actors behind the caped hero and his arch-nemesis become unexpectedly close? According to Nicholas Hoult, there’s a lot more warmth behind the scenes than fans might expect.
Hoult, who’s stepping into the dangerously sharp shoes of Lex Luthor for James Gunn’s highly anticipated Superman reboot, recently opened up about his working relationship with David Corenswet, the new face of Clark Kent. In his own words, Hoult described moments during filming where he felt 'warm and safe' in Corenswet’s arms. That might sound odd coming from the man playing Superman’s biggest enemy, but it was clear Hoult meant it as a testament to the trust and camaraderie that grew between them on set.
Their real-life friendship sharply contrasts with the legendary rivalry about to hit the big screen. Behind all that comic-book drama, the two actors leaned on each other—literally and emotionally. Hoult described how these moments of tenderness often bubbled up in rehearsals, sometimes catching both actors off guard. Corenswet, too, embraced this close dynamic, saying that genuine connections help deepen the performances, especially when tackling characters with such iconic baggage.
From Comic Rivalry to Real Connection: Inside Their Process
James Gunn, known for upending superhero tropes, wanted every character in his Superman universe to feel more layered and real. Both Hoult and Corenswet took that mission seriously. For Corenswet, Superman’s story isn’t just about strength or flight—it’s about carrying emotional weight and showing real vulnerability. He looked to his own life’s highs and lows to bring something fresh to Clark Kent.
Hoult, meanwhile, refused to play Lex as a one-dimensional villain. He talked about digging into Lex’s psyche, exploring what makes a genius billionaire tick beyond the clichés. He used interactions with Corenswet’s Superman as fuel, playing up both the competitive edge and those surprise flashes of understanding. Instead of just hating the hero, Hoult wanted Lex’s motivations to actually make sense — even if audiences don’t always agree with them.
The vibe between the two wasn’t just limited to filming, either. During the Los Angeles premiere, Corenswet crashed Hoult’s press session for a laugh. The playful ribbing got cameras flashing and fans buzzing, hinting that their off-screen chemistry could translate into something unique on-screen as well.
With the film set to premiere on July 11, 2025, superhero diehards and newcomers alike are paying close attention. The cast is stacked with recognizable names—Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern—but it’s the surprising friendship between Hoult and Corenswet that’s already setting this Superman reboot apart.
