Fans stunned as DC axe Henry Cavill as Superman

DC Comics and Warner Bros. have told Henry Cavill that he will not be returning as Superman in any future movies featuring the character.

James Gunn and Peter Safran were recently appointed in major roles at Warner Bros. to oversee DC Studios, with a massive shake-up in the vision of the DCEU and other properties expected.

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The former will lead DC Studios from a creative standpoint, while Safran will focus on the business side of things.

The news of these appointments came not long after Cavill made his sensational return as Superman in Black Adam.

Following the cameo, Cavill confirmed that he would indeed be back as Clark Kent in the future, possibly up against or teaming with Black Adam, played by Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson.

However, as part of the DC shake-up, they are taking Superman in a different direction, as confirmed by Gunn.

“Peter and I have a DC slate ready to go, which we couldn’t be more over-the-moon about; we’ll be able to share some exciting information about our first projects at the beginning of the new year,” he wrote on Twitter.

“Among those on the slate is Superman. In the initial stages, our story will be focusing on an earlier part of Superman’s life, so the character will not be played by Henry Cavill."

The Guardians of the Galaxy and The Suicide Squad director did reveal that discussions were had about potential future collaborations with Cavill.

"But we just had a great meeting with Henry and we’re big fans and we talked about a number of exciting possibilities to work together in the future," he continued.

Cavill responds to Superman news

Cavill has since responded to the news and while he is saddened at not donning the cape again, he says he understands there must be a "changing of the guard" at some point.

“I just had a meeting with James Gunn and Peter Safran, and it’s sad news, everyone,” Cavill posted on social media.

“I will, after all, not be returning as Superman. After being told by the studio to announce my return back in October, prior to their hire, this news isn’t the easiest, but that’s life.

"The changing of the guard is something that happens. I respect that. James and Peter have a universe to build. I wish them and all involved with the new universe the best of luck, and the happiest of fortunes."