Matt Bomer Says Being Gay Cost Him Superman Role

Actor Matt Bomer recently opened up about a lesser-known chapter in Superman’s cinematic history: he was once set to don the iconic cape. In a candid interview on the THR podcast Awards Chatter, Bomer discussed his involvement with an early 2000s Superman project, Superman: Flyby, written by J.J. Abrams.

Bomer shared that he was not only a strong contender for the role of Superman but had also signed a three-picture deal with Warner Bros. “It looked like I was the director’s choice for the role… I signed a three-picture deal at Warner Bros,” he said.

But then, the shocking question arose – was his sexuality the kryptonite that cost him Superman? “Yeah, that’s my understanding… That was a time in the industry when something like that could still really be weaponized against you,” Bomer confessed. The actor pointed out the ruthless nature of Hollywood politics back then, hinting at the industry’s less-than-liberal stance on LGBTQ+ actors.

Bomer’s insights shed light on the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ actors in Hollywood and add an interesting footnote to Superman’s film history.

While Matt Bomer did not go on to play Superman, he is no stranger to DC having played Larry Trainor/Negative Man in Doom Patrol and voicing Barry Allen/The Flash in several DC animated movies including Justice League: Crisis On Infinite Earths.

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