Superman star Nicholas Hoult shared what it was like working with filmmaker James Gunn to create the DC Universe Lex Luthor.

Although he initially auditioned for the title role, Hoult was ultimately cast as the Man of Steel’s arch-enemy, Lex Luthor, in November 2023. He is the fifth actor to portray the iconic DC supervillain on the big screen, following Lyle Talbot (Atom Man vs. Superman), Gene Hackman (Christopher Reeves Superman series), Kevin Spacey (Superman Returns) and Jesse Eisenberg (DC Extended Universe).

Nicholas Hoult had fun creating the DCU’s Lex Luthor with James Gunn

Hoult discussed working with Gunn on Superman while speaking to The Hollywood Reporter to promote his latest films Juror #2 and Nosferatu. The actor shared that he is a big fan of Gunn’s approach as a filmmaker, explaining that he “writes such wonderful scripts” and “has such a great understanding of storytelling and filmmaking.” I just love watching his films and I have complete faith in him.”

On how the DCU’s Lex Luthor came together, Hoult explained: “We talked back and forth about the energy behind certain scenes and who Lex is in this film, when you meet him and where he goes. It was really fun working with him because he’s a director who pushed me in exciting ways. I left the set every day looking forward to coming back, so I really enjoyed the process with James. I thought, ‘Oh, it’s exciting how he imagines this character, and hopefully I can bring the energy that he wants into what he put on the page.'”

Hoult also confirmed that his interpretation of Lex Luthor will be “imposing and dangerous,” explaining, “That’s something about this character.” I assume that when you play the villain, you want to make people feel like that they are dangerous.”

Hoult is part of a large ensemble cast that includes David Corenswet as Clark Kent/Superman, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, María Gabriela de Faría as The Engineer, Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, Sara Sampaio as Eve Teschmacher, Terence Rosemore as Otis and Wendell Pierce as Perry White, Pruitt Taylor Vince as Jonathan Kent, Neva Howell as Martha Kent, Beck Bennett as Steve Lombard, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific, Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner, Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho and Frank Grillo as Rick Flag Sr.

Superman will hit theaters on July 11, 2025 as part of the DCU’s Chapter One: Gods and Monsters.