Netflix-Warner Bros Deal Sparks Superman Actor Comeback Speculation
The streaming giant's acquisition of Warner Bros has ignited passionate debates among superhero fans about potential major casting changes and creative direction shifts in upcoming DC projects.
The streaming platform's announced acquisition of Warner Bros has triggered widespread speculation about bringing back the previous Superman actor. Enthusiasts anticipate that Netflix's ownership could lead to dismissing current DC leadership and reviving the earlier cinematic universe. Online discussions actively promote claims that the streaming service is secretly negotiating with the former Man of Steel star.
Supporters believe Netflix's takeover would favor the previous director's Superman interpretation over the current approach due to established relationships. After the filmmaker left Warner Bros, he signed a multi-project agreement with Netflix. The former Superman actor starred in the streaming service's fantasy series for several seasons.
Netflix could justify restoring the earlier DC universe based on performance metrics that seem to support the original actor over his replacement. The current Superman film, marking the new cinematic universe's debut, fell short of box office expectations but managed to cross the $600 million threshold globally, finishing at $616,684,465.
Box Office Numbers Tell a Different Story
The 2013 Superman reboot earned $670,145,518 worldwide, creating seemingly comparable figures. However, fan calculations provide important context regarding actual audience reach. Average US ticket prices in 2013 stood at $8.13 compared to today's $16.08.
This means the earlier film sold 82,428,723 tickets while the recent release sold 38,351,023 - more than double the audience. Inflation-adjusted estimates place the 2013 movie's earnings at approximately $798.2 million.
The recent Superman film reportedly generated $125 million in profits for Warner Bros and experienced only a 54% second-week drop, showing decent audience retention compared to Marvel releases this year.
Challenges to the Comeback Theory
Discussions about the actor's Netflix return overlook his problematic exit from the streaming platform's fantasy series. He departed after the third season, with reports suggesting disagreements over creative direction that strayed from source material. His departure negatively impacted the show, as the replacement actor's season received poor reviews.
Recent film performances haven't been impressive box office draws, suggesting Netflix wouldn't prioritize his return. The streaming service is allegedly distancing itself from the previous director's projects after multiple disappointments.
Netflix quietly canceled several planned projects in the zombie universe, including sequels and animated prequels. The sci-fi epic franchise also underperformed, leading to shelved expansion plans despite original ambitions for four to six entries. An animated mythology series wasn't renewed for a second season, and disputes arose over a $100 million action movie budget.
Current Leadership Remains Secure
Warner Bros rejected a hostile takeover attempt, with shareholders backing Netflix's bid due to more favorable terms that reportedly include retaining current DC leadership. Netflix stated intentions to maintain Warner Bros' current operations and build on existing strengths, including theatrical film releases.
Warner Bros Discovery plans $38.7 million in retention bonuses for top executives, suggesting job security for current leadership. During a recent interview, DC's co-CEO claimed they were irreplaceable, stating the current creative head has been the architect of the grand vision. Their contracts extend through Spring 2027.
The first new universe film arrived when Warner Bros outperformed other major studios at the box office, leading to immediate sequel approval. The filmmaker is developing the follow-up while the next theatrical release is scheduled for 2026.