Why Superman: Legacy Will Be a Jewish Allegory

NEW YORK - July 11, 2023 - PRLog -- By: JACK O'NEILL

After it was announced that Henry Cavill will no longer be playing the role of Superman in James Gunn's revised DC Universe, there were a few names circling on who might take over. The actor who came out on top was David Corenswet, known for his roles in Hollywood and The Politician. It's not just that he looks the part, Corenswet will be the first Jewish actor to play the Man of Steel when Superman: Legacy comes out.

As well as Corenswet being perfect visually for the part, finally having an actor from a Jewish background playing a character who was inspired so heavily by Jewish folklore is a proud moment for the entire community. Casting a Jewish actor for the role has certainly been a long time coming, paying homage to the religious heritage of Superman that ultimately lead to the creation of the character himself.

Superman's Jewish Heritage

Back in 1938, Superman debuted as the creation of two Canadian Jewish teenagers, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. The creator took inspiration from Jewish legends and folklore, most notably from the Biblical prophet Samson, who also had superhuman strength. Superman's real name, Kal-El, can also be translated into Hebrew, meaning "Vessel of God" or "Voice of God." His origin story is also a lot like that of Moses, with him being adopted by people who live a different life after his home is collapsing.

Both Siegel and Shuster were both immigrants who escaped Eastern Europe, which is another element of their experience that they implemented with Superman's story, with him coming from Krypton to America. Superman himself was created in the wake of Hitler's rise, to create a hero that defended the weak. Due to the character's entire origin being based around Siegel's and Shuster's experience with antisemitism, having a Jewish actor play the role is the perfect way to honor the iconic hero's roots.

Although it's taken nearly a century for a Jewish actor to be cast for the role, now that Corenswet has been cast it makes it no less of a proud moment for the entire community. Whilst previous adaptations have all leaned into the heritage of the character as there's no way you can't, having someone who comes from the same religious background as the creators makes Superman: Legacy one of the most important and progressive adaptations to date.

Superman: Legacy is scheduled to hit theaters on July 11, 2025.

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