Superman Return? Not For Henry Cavill

Jersey's Henry Cavill will not return as Superman in the next instalment of the superhero franchise.

It was announced less than two months ago that the Jersey-born actor would reprise his role, but new bosses at DC have decided to go in another direction.

Cavill announced on his social media that his comeback as the caped hero was off the cards:

"I have just had a meeting with James Gunn and Peter Safran and it's sad news, everyone. I will, after all, not be returning as Superman.

"After Being told by the studio to announced my return back in October, prior to their hire, this news isn't the easiest, but that's life. The changing of the guard is something that happens."

The next film will reportedly cover an earlier part of the character's life.

DC said they would reveal more details about upcoming movies in the New Year.

Cavill (39) first appeared as Superman in Man of Steel in 2013.

He also portrayed the character in Batman VS Superman in 2016 and Justice League in 2017, and had a surprise cameo in the end credits scene of Black Adam in October.

 "For those who have been by my side for years...we can mourn for a bit, but then we must remember...Superman is still around."

DC Studios new boss James Gunn, also confirmed Cavill's departure:

"Peter & I have a DC slate ready to go, which we couldn't be more over-the-moon about; we'll be able to share some exciting information about our first projects at the beginning of the new year.

Among those on the slate is Superman. In the initial stages, our story will be focusing on an earlier part of Superman's life, so the character will not be played by Henry Cavill."

Henry Cavill  also recently revealed he would not be returning to the role of Geralt of Rivia in the Netflix fantasy series The Witcher.