Superman: Nicholas Hoult stuns as Lex Luthor in jaw-dropping image

Nicholas Hoult might not be the next Superman, but it’s clear to see why he’d be the perfect Lex Luthor in James Gunn’s new DCU.

Nicholas Hoult is no stranger to playing a superhero on the big screen, having previously played Beast in FOX’s X-Men films; however, he just seems to keep coming up short when chasing his dreams to play one of the biggest heroes in DC Comics.

Hoult was a frontrunner to play Batman in Matt Reeves’ The Batman but came just short of landing the part which eventually went to Robert Pattinson. While DC missed its chance to work with Hoult on The Batman, it seemed like he might get a chance to play another iconic DC hero in the new DCU being built by James Gunn and Peter Safran. Sadly things didn’t go his way again.

Before announcing the casting of David Corenswet in the role of Superman, the studio had narrowed the field down to three actors including Hoult who emerged as a favorite for the role of Clark Kent. Hoult was, of course, passed over for the role but it now appears Hoult’s failure to land the role of one of DC’s tentpole heroes might turn into his villain origin story… literally.

Is Nicholas Hoult playing Lex Luthor?

Although DC has not officially announced any casting decisions for Superman: Legacy beyond announcing  David Corenswet and the new Rachel Brosnahan Superman and Lois, it has been reported that Nicholas Hoult is a favorite for the role of Lex Luthor in the film — which isn’t too surprising giving DC has long been trying to find a way to bring Hould into the mix.

As a source told The Hollywood Reporter, “The studio has loved him since Fury Road,” and has apparently been looking for a way to bring him into the mix.

Given how close Hoult came to landing the lead in The Batman and that he is in the mix to play Superman, it would make sense for DC to bring him into the fold for consideration for a part in James Gunn’s Superman film. While many had hoped to see Hoult play the Man of Steel, there is no denying he’d be an equally amazing Lex and the part could allow him to flex his acting skills in bringing a layered performance to the iconic villain.

What Nicholas Hoult could look like as Lex Luthor

As rumors swirl that Nicholas Hoult may soon be suiting up to play Lex Luthor in the DC Universe, digital artist Josh “clements.ink” has debuted a stunning piece of concept art that showcases just why Hoult has likely caught the attention of the DC brass.

In the new concept art, Hoult is transformed into Superman’s infamous foe in a truly captivating design that draws direct inspiration from Lex’s iconic comic book look. Via the concept art, Hoult dons Lex’s iconic green and purple armored look which made its debut back in the 80s and has become a staple for the character in the decades since.

Of course, Lex’s look wouldn’t be complete without the traditional bald look which is a must for fans who don’t want to see another Jesse Eisenberg situation. And as the art shows, Hoult can most certainly rock Lex’s iconic look.

The end result is an absolutely breathtaking piece of concept art that showcases how absolutely incredible Hoult could be in the role of Superman’s longtime foe.

If anyone has doubts about whether Hoult would be right for the role, one look at clements.ink’s jaw-dropping art should put those right to bed. There is no denying Hoult would be perfect in the role, so let’s hope DC won’t let him slip through their hands again and finally bring him into the DC Universe being built by James Gunn and Peter Safran.