5 Major Actors Who Were Considered For Huge DCEU Roles (& 3 Would Have Been Way Better)

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When creating the DC Extended Universe, filmmakers like Zack Snyder and Warner Bros. leaders needed to find actors who could embody DC Comics’ most famous characters for many years. Unlike standalone superhero movies such as the film *Catwoman*, the goal was for these actors to become strongly identified with their roles, similar to the long-running stars of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The series ultimately ended in late 2023, ten years after *Man of Steel* began it, meaning audiences wouldn’t see these actors continue to develop their characters over a long period of time.

As DC looked to build its universe of superheroes, many famous actors were considered for leading and supporting roles. While none of these actors were ultimately cast, now that the DC Extended Universe has ended, it’s fun to imagine how different things could have been. Could the franchise have lasted longer with these alternate choices?

5) Matthew Goode as Superman

When it came to casting Superman for *Man of Steel*, the final decision reportedly came down to Henry Cavill and Matthew Goode. Goode, who had previously worked with director Zack Snyder in *Watchmen*, was a strong contender but ultimately didn’t get the part. Snyder clearly liked working with Goode, as he also considered him for a role in *Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice*. However, Cavill proved to be an inspired choice for Superman.

4) Zoe Saldana as Lois Lane

Amy Adams became known for playing Lois Lane in three DC Universe movies. Director Zack Snyder shared in 2019 that when casting *Man of Steel*, Adams and Zoe Saldana were the final two contenders. Saldana’s audition was particularly strong, but ultimately Adams landed the role. While missing out on Lois Lane was likely disappointing for Saldana, it freed her up to become Gamora in the hugely successful Marvel Cinematic Universe throughout the 2010s. Casting choices can be unpredictable, and Adams proved to be a fantastic Lois Lane.

3) Leonardo DiCaprio as Lex Luthor

When it became known that Lex Luthor would be a major character in *Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice*, fans immediately began guessing who would play him. Leonardo DiCaprio was a popular choice, and it turns out director Zack Snyder was also considering him. Snyder later revealed he and DiCaprio had several meetings to discuss the role, and DiCaprio shared his ideas for how to portray Lex Luthor. Ultimately, though, DiCaprio wasn’t cast, despite being a strong contender. Jesse Eisenberg eventually took on the role, which proved controversial, while DiCaprio went on to work on films like *The Revenant*.

2) Ryan Gosling as The Joker

When news started circulating about the cast of *Suicide Squad*, it was obvious Warner Bros. and director David Ayer were trying to attract big-name actors to a relatively unknown comic book series. While stars like Will Smith and Margot Robbie made it into the final movie, Ryan Gosling, who was considered for the role of the Joker, didn’t. It’s unclear why Gosling turned down the part, but around 2015, he wasn’t as interested in big franchise films as he is now. After Gosling passed, Jared Leto took on the role of the Joker and his performance wasn’t well-received by most viewers. Many believe Gosling would have been a stronger choice for the part.

1) John Cena as Shazam

The search for the actor to play Shazam! involved many auditions with muscular and funny men in Hollywood. John Cena was among those considered, having recently gained recognition for his comedic roles in films like *Sisters* and *Trainwreck*. Although Cena was a finalist, Zachary Levi ultimately landed the part. Looking at Cena’s work since then, many believe he would have been a great fit. Fortunately, Cena later joined the DC Universe as Peacemaker in *The Suicide Squad*.

Man of Steel is now streaming on Max.

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2025-10-20 04:10