*Moviegoers may have James Gunn’s vision of Superman in sight for next year, but a Black doppelganger for the traditionally white superhero could arrive in the not-too-distant future. Hiptoro reports that famed author Ta-Nehisi Coates is set to helm a movie featuring a Black Superman.
As it stands now, nothing is definite, other than the announcement of the feature back in 2021, with J.J. Abrams on board as a producer. Media sources report no release date has been set for the movie, which will include a Black actor as the Last Son of Krypton.
Speculation on the film centers on it being “a 20th century period piece” that will introduce of a new and different version of the iconic hero. This version plans on “crafting a Kal-El in the vein of the original Superman comics and will have the protagonist hail from Krypton and come to Earth,” according to reports.
In 2023, Gunn stated that while a white Superman will headline his film, “Superman: Legacy,” there is still room for a world featuring the first Black Man of Steel.
“Those two things are totally unrelated,” Gunn told io9. “That’s an exciting movie. I know that Chantal Nong, who is the executive on that project, is extremely excited about it. So if it comes in and it’s great, which I haven’t read the script, and if the timing is right, that could absolutely happen. That’s totally unrelated. It would be an Elseworlds tale like Joker.”
That said, rumors swirled that Coates’ Black Superman project was canceled. But Gunn did confirm via Threads in January that the film was still a go when a fan asked if it was still happening.
“Yes,” the DCU co-head responded.
Speculating on what a Black Superman could offer, Hiptoro praised DC Films for sticking with the project and Coates as it represents a barrier-breaking shift that, “challenges the conventional portrayal of superheroes and opens up a dialogue about race, identity, and the American dream.”
“The significance of a Black man embodying a symbol of hope and justice cannot be overstated, especially in a country grappling with its history of racial inequality,” the site stated.
“By reimagining one of the most iconic characters in comic book history as Black, DC Films is making a powerful statement about the importance of diversity and inclusion in storytelling. This initiative not only reflects the changing demographics of global audiences but also signals a commitment to telling stories that resonate with a more diverse range of experiences.”
While the move to bring a Black Superman may not sit well for fans of the character’s traditional and canonical appearance, Hiptoro notes how making Superman Black returns the character “to its roots, highlighting the struggles and strengths of another marginalized community.
“Critics might argue about the necessity of such a change, citing tradition and canonical fidelity. However, the essence of Superman lies in his universal appeal and his fight for justice, ideals that transcend race. The decision to cast a Black actor in this role is a testament to the character’s adaptability and the importance of reflecting the diversity of the audience it serves.”
“The Black Superman movie spearheaded by Ta-Nehisi Coates is more than just another entry in the superhero genre. It is a cultural milestone that represents a shift towards greater inclusivity and representation in cinema. By reimagining one of the most iconic characters in comic book history, this project has the potential to spark conversations, challenge preconceptions, and inspire a new generation of fans, the site continued.
“As the DC Universe embarks on this ambitious journey, the significance of Coates’s Black Superman extends beyond the screens. It symbolizes the industry’s recognition of the need for change and the power of storytelling to bridge divides and celebrate humanity’s shared ideals. In a world yearning for heroes that reflect the diversity and complexity of its inhabitants, the Black Superman stands as a beacon of hope, a reminder that the true strength of a hero lies in their ability to inspire us all.”
Gunn’s update on the Black Superman film comes as he gears up to start production on “Superman: Legacy.” The highly anticipated film, which stars David Corenswet as Superman / Clark Kent, is set to arrive in theaters on July 11, 2025.
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