Every great hero needs a worthy rival. Just as iconic characters like Batman and Spider-Man have their infamous foes, the Man of Steel wouldn’t be complete without his brilliant and ruthless counterpart. In the upcoming reboot of the Superman franchise, directed by James Gunn, actor Nicholas Hoult steps into the shoes of the notorious antagonist, Lex Luthor.

Hoult, who previously portrayed Beast in the X-Men series, is now embracing darker, more complex roles. Reflecting on the legacy of Lex Luthor, he shares that he drew inspiration from earlier portrayals, including those he grew up watching. “Michael Rosenbaum’s Lex in Smallville was the first version I saw, and I’ve always admired Gene Hackman’s performance as well,” says Hoult. While he’s working with a new script and creative direction, he enjoys weaving in subtle nods to previous interpretations.

At this stage in his career, Hoult is leaning into characters with edge and intensity. “I think the thirties and forties are a great period for deeper, more challenging roles,” he explains. “I don’t have a roadmap, but I’m really enjoying taking on roles that are a little darker, a little stranger.”

Fans can expect a fresh and complex take on Lex Luthor when the new Superman film hits UK cinemas on 11 July 2025.

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