David Corenswet Reveals Intense Weight Gain For DC's Superman - "I Didn't Fit Into Any of My Pants"

 

Like many actors before him, David Corenswet will suit up as the Man of Tomorrow in Superman. The actor, previously known for The Politician, is joined by Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Skylar Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, Edi Gathegi as Mr. Terrific, and more. Superman will follow a young Clark Kent early in his Superman career as he balances heroics and journalism.

Corenswet, like fellow Superman star Christopher Reeve, is a Julliard alum, and his role as Superman is his first in the superhero genre. As such, the actor had his work cut out for him to physically prepare for Superman.

What David Corenswet's Weight Gain Means For Superman (2025)

The Superman Star Gained Almost 40 Lbs Of Muscle

 

David Corenswet certainly has the height to play Superman at 6'4, but the actor has a lean build. Naturally, this meant the actor had to put on a bit of muscle to look the part. In an appearance on the Manly Things (sort of) Podcast, Corenswet stated that he was 238 lbs "at the peak of [his] build" and "didn’t fit into any of [his] pants" His trainer Paolo Mascitti also discussed the actor's transformation: "David Corenswet worked his a** off; I can’t wait to share more of the training we did toprepare to play this iconic character."



Corenswet isn't the first Superman actor to undergo such a transformation.after training with Darth Vader actor David Prowse. Though Brandon Routh was a lifelong athlete, he put on 25 lbs for Superman Returns after taking up weightlifting. Most recently, Henry Cavill had an intense regimen requiring him to get 10 hours of sleep, consume 6,000 calories, and perform deadlifts, front-and-back squats, and kettlebell swings. Playing Superman requires a lot of physical dedication, and Corenswet seems up to the challenge.

Our Take On David Corenswet's Superman Transformation

David Corenswet Is Dedicated To Playing Superman Well

Corenswet's commitment to the role of Superman is evident in the drastic physical changes he underwent. If he brings that level of dedication to every aspect of the role, David Corenswet could be the best Superman yet. Beyond his appearance, the actor understands the part, and before he was even cast as Superman, he previously stated he hoped to see "an upbeat, throwback" take on the hero.

He is following in the footsteps of many theatrical Superman actors before him, which is a good sign. Whether audiences prefer the charming duality of Christopher Reeve or the angst of Henry Cavill, Corenswet will likely bring his own flair to the role, while certainly looking the part.

James Gunn's Superman releases on July 11, 2025.