Superman’s New Face: David Corenswet’s 5 Iconic Roles Before the Cape

Published 07/10/2025, 4:11 AM EDT

Before David Corenswet steps into the iconic role of Superman, it is worth revisiting the impressive body of work that has shaped him into one of Hollywood’s most promising young actors. From period dramas to psychological horror, Corenswet has demonstrated remarkable versatility. Each role has added a new layer to his passion, preparing him for the immense responsibility of becoming the new face of a legendary superhero. It is now time to explore five of his most memorable performances that showcase why Corenswet is the perfect choice for the cape.

David Corenswet’s journey through diverse genres reveals a talent capable of capturing complex emotions and ruling the big screen with subtlety and power.

Hollywood (2020, Netflix)

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David Corenswet’s role as Jack Castello in Hollywood marked a significant breakthrough, portraying a World War II veteran chasing dreams in the glamorous yet ruthless postwar film industry. Jack’s character embodies appreciation in a world filled with both opportunity and prejudice. Corenswet’s ability to balance charm with emotional depth made Jack a standout character, resonating deeply with viewers who rooted for his success against all odds. The actor’s chemistry with the cast adds authenticity to the story, making Jack’s journey both inspiring and relatable. David Corenswet and the whole cast of Hollywood won the Hollywood Critics Association TV Award for Best Streaming Limited Series.

Versatility is key, and Corenswet is the key maestro. From political satire to horror and crime drama, David Corenswet’s has done it all.

The Politician (2019–2020, Netflix)

In The Politician, David Corenswet took on the role of River Barkley, a magnetic young man whose relationship with the protagonist adds emotional depth to the satirical series. River’s character explores themes of identity and mental health, and Corenswet delivers a performance that is both tender and compelling. His portrayal brings humanity to a show often filled with sharp political humor, allowing audiences to connect with the emotional stakes behind the ambition and rivalry.

David Corenswet’s nuanced acting shines as he navigates River’s struggles, making the character memorable beyond his role. His chemistry with Ben Platt’s Payton added layers to the show’s central rivalry, and his presence lingered long after the credits rolled, a true testament to a performance that simply stuck with you.

Despite the Superman Exit, Henry Cavill Gave David Corenswet Some Unexpected Wisdom

Next, David Corenswet took a chilling detour into the world of horror.

Pearl (2022)

In the horror film Pearl, directed by Ti West, David Corenswet plays the mysterious Projectionist, a shadowy figure whose presence disrupts the life of the titular character. Corenswet’s ability to balance allure and menace adds a thrilling tension to the film, making his character a key element in the psychological horror’s eerie atmosphere.

Pearl explores dark themes of ambition and violence, and David Corenswet’s portrayal enhances the film’s emotional complexity. In one standout scene, Corenswet’s character, the Projectionist, invites Pearl into the theater’s projection booth, where their conversation simmered with unspoken tension, which pushed the film’s lineage into darkness. This role proved how he can fascinate audiences with suspenseful and unsettling stories.

Nicholas Hoult Says It's "warm and safe" to be held by David Corenswet, Reveals Wife's Surprising Reaction

After dipping his toes in some fantasy horror, David Corenswet explored some real horror with crime drama on HBO.

We Own This City (2022, HBO)

David Corenswet’s role as David McDougall in HBO’s We Own This City placed him in the gritty world of Baltimore’s police corruption scandal. Corenswet’s portrayal of a principled investigator caught in a morally complex environment is grounded and powerful. Corenswet brings empathy and determination to the character, highlighting the humanitarian angle. His performance adds a crucial perspective to the series’ intense scrutiny of law enforcement and justice. In one memorable scene, David McDougall meticulously pieces together evidence in a cramped office, his frustration and determination uncover the extent of corruption within the police department, underscoring the show’s gritty realism. This role demonstrated his capacity to handle serious, socially relevant material with nuance and depth.

Even in romantic comedies, David Corenswet’s charm shines through.

Look Both Ways (2022, Netflix)

In the romantic dramedy Look Both Ways, David Corenswet plays Jake, a warm and supportive friend steering the complexities of love and life’s unpredictable paths. Corenswet proves through this roles that he is ready to lead the legacy, showing why he might be an even better fit than Henry Cavill. Corenswet’s chemistry with co-star Lili Reinhart adds emotional resonance, making Jake a character audiences root for in every possible future. This role highlights Corenswet’s versatility, showing his ability to shine in emotionally rich stories. Through this role, Corenswet proves he is ready to take on the mantle of Superman with the perfect blend of heart, humor, and depth.

David Corenswet’s diverse and compelling body of work clearly demonstrates why he is the ideal choice to become the new Superman. From heartfelt period dramas and sharp political satire to chilling horror and gripping crime stories, Corenswet has proven his ability to embody complex characters. Corenswet’s charm and emotional range also shine in lighter and romantic roles. As he steps into the legendary cape, David Corenswet brings not only talent but a genuine connection to the stories he tells, but also promises a fresh and powerful take on an iconic hero.

David Corenswet Replaces Henry Cavill in Yet Another Iconic Fans Demand as Latest Post Sparks Reaction

Ready to see why David Corenswet is the perfect fit for the Man of Steel? Let us know in the comments below.

Before David Corenswet steps into the iconic role of Superman, it is worth revisiting the impressive body of work that has shaped him into one of Hollywood’s most promising young actors. From period dramas to psychological horror, Corenswet has demonstrated remarkable versatility. Each role has added a new layer to his passion, preparing him for the immense responsibility of becoming the new face of a legendary superhero. It is now time to explore five of his most memorable performances that showcase why Corenswet is the perfect choice for the cape.

David Corenswet’s journey through diverse genres reveals a talent capable of capturing complex emotions and ruling the big screen with subtlety and power.

Hollywood (2020, Netflix)

David Corenswet’s role as Jack Castello in Hollywood marked a significant breakthrough, portraying a World War II veteran chasing dreams in the glamorous yet ruthless postwar film industry. Jack’s character embodies appreciation in a world filled with both opportunity and prejudice. Corenswet’s ability to balance charm with emotional depth made Jack a standout character, resonating deeply with viewers who rooted for his success against all odds. The actor’s chemistry with the cast adds authenticity to the story, making Jack’s journey both inspiring and relatable. David Corenswet and the whole cast of Hollywood won the Hollywood Critics Association TV Award for Best Streaming Limited Series.

Versatility is key, and Corenswet is the key maestro. From political satire to horror and crime drama, David Corenswet’s has done it all.

The Politician (2019–2020, Netflix)

In The Politician, David Corenswet took on the role of River Barkley, a magnetic young man whose relationship with the protagonist adds emotional depth to the satirical series. River’s character explores themes of identity and mental health, and Corenswet delivers a performance that is both tender and compelling. His portrayal brings humanity to a show often filled with sharp political humor, allowing audiences to connect with the emotional stakes behind the ambition and rivalry.

David Corenswet’s nuanced acting shines as he navigates River’s struggles, making the character memorable beyond his role. His chemistry with Ben Platt’s Payton added layers to the show’s central rivalry, and his presence lingered long after the credits rolled, a true testament to a performance that simply stuck with you.

Despite the Superman Exit, Henry Cavill Gave David Corenswet Some Unexpected Wisdom

Next, David Corenswet took a chilling detour into the world of horror.

Pearl (2022)

In the horror film Pearl, directed by Ti West, David Corenswet plays the mysterious Projectionist, a shadowy figure whose presence disrupts the life of the titular character. Corenswet’s ability to balance allure and menace adds a thrilling tension to the film, making his character a key element in the psychological horror’s eerie atmosphere.

Pearl explores dark themes of ambition and violence, and David Corenswet’s portrayal enhances the film’s emotional complexity. In one standout scene, Corenswet’s character, the Projectionist, invites Pearl into the theater’s projection booth, where their conversation simmered with unspoken tension, which pushed the film’s lineage into darkness. This role proved how he can fascinate audiences with suspenseful and unsettling stories.

Nicholas Hoult Says It's "warm and safe" to be held by David Corenswet, Reveals Wife's Surprising Reaction

After dipping his toes in some fantasy horror, David Corenswet explored some real horror with crime drama on HBO.

We Own This City (2022, HBO)

David Corenswet’s role as David McDougall in HBO’s We Own This City placed him in the gritty world of Baltimore’s police corruption scandal. Corenswet’s portrayal of a principled investigator caught in a morally complex environment is grounded and powerful. Corenswet brings empathy and determination to the character, highlighting the humanitarian angle. His performance adds a crucial perspective to the series’ intense scrutiny of law enforcement and justice. In one memorable scene, David McDougall meticulously pieces together evidence in a cramped office, his frustration and determination uncover the extent of corruption within the police department, underscoring the show’s gritty realism. This role demonstrated his capacity to handle serious, socially relevant material with nuance and depth.

Even in romantic comedies, David Corenswet’s charm shines through.

Look Both Ways (2022, Netflix)

In the romantic dramedy Look Both Ways, David Corenswet plays Jake, a warm and supportive friend steering the complexities of love and life’s unpredictable paths. Corenswet proves through this roles that he is ready to lead the legacy, showing why he might be an even better fit than Henry Cavill. Corenswet’s chemistry with co-star Lili Reinhart adds emotional resonance, making Jake a character audiences root for in every possible future. This role highlights Corenswet’s versatility, showing his ability to shine in emotionally rich stories. Through this role, Corenswet proves he is ready to take on the mantle of Superman with the perfect blend of heart, humor, and depth.

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Article continues below this ad

David Corenswet’s diverse and compelling body of work clearly demonstrates why he is the ideal choice to become the new Superman. From heartfelt period dramas and sharp political satire to chilling horror and gripping crime stories, Corenswet has proven his ability to embody complex characters. Corenswet’s charm and emotional range also shine in lighter and romantic roles. As he steps into the legendary cape, David Corenswet brings not only talent but a genuine connection to the stories he tells, but also promises a fresh and powerful take on an iconic hero.

David Corenswet Replaces Henry Cavill in Yet Another Iconic Fans Demand as Latest Post Sparks Reaction

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Article continues below this ad

Ready to see why David Corenswet is the perfect fit for the Man of Steel? Let us know in the comments below.

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Soma Mitra

66 articles

Soma is a journalist at Netflix Junkie. With a postgraduate degree in Mass Communication, she brings production experience from documentary films like Chandua: Stories on Fabric. Covering the true crime and docu-drama beat, she turns psychological thrillers into sharp, audience-aware storytelling.

Edited By: Aliza Siddiqui

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