Nicholas Hoult recently discussed his preparation for the role of Lex Luthor in James Gunn's upcoming Superman movie during an appearance on the Inside of You with Michael Rosenbaum podcast. He highlighted Gunn's directorial approach, which allows for spontaneity and experimentation on set, noting how this dynamic style enhances his performance.
Reflecting on his audition process for the iconic villain, Hoult praised Gunn's ability to maintain a lively and engaging atmosphere, where actors are encouraged to try new ideas in the moment. This process, he explained, aligns with his own approach to preparation—being as ready as possible to then freely explore his character's nuances during filming.
Prior to filming, Hoult shared that he focused on physical training to embody the role of Lex Luthor. Inspired by a scene in the All-Star Superman comic series, where Lex emphasizes the value of genuine physical strength, Hoult embraced a rigorous workout routine. Despite this dedication, he expressed doubt about the likelihood of any shirtless scenes for his character in the film.
During the podcast, Hoult revealed to Rosenbaum, who previously portrayed a younger version of Lex in Smallville, that he grew up watching the show and considered it his introduction to the character. He commended Rosenbaum's portrayal, acknowledging it as a pivotal influence on his own understanding of Lex Luthor.
Gunn recently shared a photo of the cast, including Hoult sporting a shaved head, indicating his transformation into Lex Luthor. The movie, which also features David Corenswet as Clark Kent/Superman and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, is scheduled for release on July 11, 2025.
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