Excitement is building as Michael Rosenbaum, best known for his portrayal of Lex Luthor in “Smallville,” hints at a possible involvement in James Gunn‘s revitalized DC Universe. Rosenbaum recently voiced his support for James Gunn’s vision for Superman and the DC Universe while confirming a small but intriguing part in the upcoming film.
Michael Rosenbaum Offers Glimpse Into Involvement With Superman
Since the news broke that James Gunn would not only guide the creative direction of the DC Universe but also direct a new Superman film, the conversation among fans has been filled with speculation. Many have wondered how Gunn’s regular collaborators would fit into this evolving universe. The line-up so far includes Gunn’s brother Sean Gunn as Maxwell Lord, Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner/Green Lantern, and Alan Tudyk and Michael Rooker voicing robots in Superman’s Fortress of Solitude. Still, one long-time associate with substantial DC history—Michael Rosenbaum—remained officially unconnected until now.
Rosenbaum became a fan favorite for his seven-season run as Lex Luthor on “Smallville.” He’s also a close friend of James Gunn and appeared as Martinex in the “Guardians of the Galaxy” trilogy, further strengthening their professional bond. During a Fan Expo Dallas panel, Rosenbaum addressed ongoing rumors, revealing that he had been asked to contribute voice work for Gunn’s Superman project:
“I don’t know. James asked me to do something fun, so I have a couple of lines that I voice. It’s funny, in a way… Anyway, there was nothing in this one, but he’s the head of DC, so I think he can stick me in a movie or something. He’s thoughtful, so I hope that happens. But I think the movie’s gonna be great. It comes out on my birthday! He’s one of my best friends, and he’s very loyal. It’s exciting. I think he’s got a great vision, and he’s putting his heart and soul into it and expressing that, because he knows how important the character is.”
—Michael Rosenbaum, Actor
This heartfelt endorsement of Gunn’s work is noteworthy coming from Rosenbaum, who has extensive experience within DC media and remains an enduring figure among the superhero fandom.
Reflections From the “Smallville” Cast and Rosenbaum’s Perspective on a Potential DCU Role
Rosenbaum’s link to Superman is celebrated by those who have worked alongside him. His “Smallville” co-star Tom Welling shared praise for Rosenbaum’s influence, underscoring the positive effect he brings to DC projects:
“I will say, to your point, I’ve never seen anything that involved Michael go wrong. Everything that exists, or that is going to happen? Once [Michael] gets involved, it’s better.”
—Tom Welling, Actor
In previous interviews, Rosenbaum has indicated his openness to taking on a new DCU role and provided insight into his ideal project:
“I’m always up for a challenge.”
—Michael Rosenbaum, Actor
He has been candid about his priorities now, noting:
“Whatever comes to me, I look at it, and if it’s not too silly, or if it makes me laugh, or I think I could do a really good job, or I think I can make an impression, I’ll do it. So I’m at that point in my career where I just want to do things that I love, that I want to do.”
—Michael Rosenbaum, Actor
When the opportunity for Superman arose, Rosenbaum reportedly questioned Gunn playfully about the choice:
“Why am I not in Superman? Why am I not in the movie somehow?”
—Michael Rosenbaum, Actor
Theories on Rosenbaum’s Role and What Comes Next in the DC Universe
Speculation is high on how Rosenbaum might fit into the new Superman movie. Many believe that, like Michael Rooker and Alan Tudyk, Rosenbaum has voiced one of the multiple robots featured in the Fortress of Solitude. Others among the fanbase hope to see him take on the role of Lionel Luthor, father of Lex Luthor, though an age gap between Rosenbaum and Nicholas Hoult (the DCU’s Lex) makes this less likely unless flashback scenes are used. Rosenbaum has addressed such possibilities:
“If that ever came to the table, I would certainly consider it.”
—Michael Rosenbaum, Actor
The embrace of former Superman actors and creators reflects a wider trend in the DC Universe toward honoring its legacy. Rosenbaum’s previous collaborations with James Gunn, commitment to roles he is passionate about, and enduring connection to Lex Luthor make his involvement a source of tremendous excitement for fans.
Smallville’s Tom Welling recently shared how working alongside Christopher Reeve influenced his understanding of the Superman legacy. This sense of heritage is now carried forward in the rebooted era of the DC Universe, which entered a new chapter when James Gunn and Peter Safran took over, bringing a fresh creative direction following mixed reviews during Zack Snyder’s stewardship of the franchise.
DC has a storied past, from its beginnings as National Allied Publications under Malcolm Wheeler-Nicholson, to decades of comics, TV series, and big-screen adventures. The DC Universe remains a powerhouse in the comic book world, competing with Marvel and uniting generations of fans through the stories of its superheroes. Gunn’s upcoming Superman project is more than a reboot; it is a careful reimagining of a cultural icon, with both new and established talents contributing to its evolution.
Upcoming Releases in the DC Universe
As excitement continues to build, several anticipated projects are slated for release within the reimagined DC Universe. These movies are expected to lay the foundation for Gunn’s vision for Superman and the DC Universe:
1. Superman: The highly awaited film directed by James Gunn, promising a heartfelt reintroduction of the character to new and longtime fans.
2. Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow: This adaptation aims to bring Supergirl into the spotlight with a fresh storyline, expanding the DC roster of leading heroes.
3. The Batman Part II: The sequel to Matt Reeves’ acclaimed film, returning the world’s greatest detective to the big screen for a new chapter.
Michael Rosenbaum’s possible return, even in a supporting or cameo role, symbolizes the enduring connections within the DC Universe and highlights Gunn’s loyalty to collaborators who understand the weight of these legendary stories. As the franchise forges ahead, longtime fans and newcomers alike watch eagerly, anticipating how these characters and the stories surrounding them will evolve in the coming years.
