Nicholas Hoult switches from Marvel to DC

Nicholas Hoult, renowned for his portrayal of Hank McCoy, also known as Beast, in the X-Men film series, has transitioned from the Marvel universe to the DC universe by taking on the role of Lex Luthor in the upcoming Superman film directed by James Gunn.

Hoult’s Tenure as Beast in the X-Men Series

Hoult first appeared as the young, brilliant scientist Hank McCoy in “X-Men: First Class” (2011), a role he reprised in subsequent films including “X-Men: Days of Future Past” (2014), “X-Men: Apocalypse” (2016), and “Dark Phoenix” (2019). His portrayal showcased McCoy’s transformation into Beast, highlighting both the character’s intellectual depth and physical prowess. Hoult’s performance was well-received, contributing significantly to the character’s on-screen development.

Embracing the Role of Lex Luthor

In a notable career move, Hoult has been cast as Lex Luthor, the formidable adversary of Superman, in James Gunn’s forthcoming film. Hoult expressed enthusiasm for the role, stating, “I’m a fan of Superman and Lex Luthor as a character, so hopefully we’ve done something special with it that people enjoy.”

Characterization and Expectations

Hoult aims to present Luthor as a “real, credible threat” to Superman, emphasizing the character’s obsessive and relentless nature. He has drawn inspiration from various sources, including previous portrayals and real-world figures, to craft a nuanced depiction. Director James Gunn envisions Luthor as a “scientific sorcerer,” highlighting his genius-level intellect and technological prowess.

Anticipation for the Upcoming Film

The new Superman film, featuring David Corenswet as the titular character and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, is scheduled for release on July 11, 2025. Fans eagerly await Hoult’s interpretation of Lex Luthor, anticipating a fresh and compelling dynamic between the iconic hero and villain.

As the release date approaches, audiences are keen to see how Hoult’s portrayal of Lex Luthor will contribute to the evolving narrative of the Superman saga.