The future of Superman’s solo series is up in the air at the moment, as word has it that DC aren’t sure what to do with Man of Steel 2. However, if this latest scoop is on the level, we might now know which film we’ll see Henry Cavill next suit up in as the Last Son of Krypton: the upcoming Shazam!
Revenge Of The Fans is reporting that “a trusted source” has let slip that WB is keen to get Supes back into another movie as soon as possible, apparently buoyed by the generally positive reaction to the brighter portrayal of the character in Justice League (in comparison to the more mixed reception the rest of the film received). As the site puts it, the studio wants to “keep him alive in the minds of the general public” and so has decided to find a role for Cavill in Shazam!
As for what part Superman could play in the story, ROTF says they’ve been told that the hero will have “an impact on Asher Angel’s Billy Batson” as the young kid will see “the Man of Steel as an inspirational figure in his life.” So, when he gains the ability to turn into a superhero, he’ll look to Superman for guidance on how to conduct himself. If true, this would be a clever way to deal with the fact that Shazam (or Captain Marvel) and Supes are traditionally very similar characters.
Obviously, at this stage we’d urge you to take this rumor with a pinch of salt, but it’s worth bearing in mind that this is far from the first time we’ve heard that Supes could appear in Shazam! Other reports have claimed the same thing, along with Dwayne Johnson possibly cameoing as Black Adam.
ROTF’s report also references the fan theory that we’ve already met Billy Batson in Justice League. At the beginning of the movie, two kids are interviewing Supes for their podcast. The thinking is that one of these is Billy, which would be a fun connection and – if this new scoop is true – would tie into Billy’s admiration of the Man of Steel.
Again, none of this has been confirmed by Warner Bros. just yet, but given that this is now the third or fourth time we’ve heard that Cavill will have a role in the film, we’re inclined to believe that Superman will indeed appear in Shazam!, which hits theaters on April 5th, 2019.