Superman‘s trailer has already revealed the figure of Ultraman, who could be Superman’s primary antagonist in the James Gunn movie. But who is this Ultraman? The identity of this villain remains a mystery, and there are some very interesting rumors regarding the same.
List of Superman theories teasing Ultraman’s identity in Superman
Martian Manhunter
A theory that seemingly makes sense, Superman’s big villain could be one of DC’s most important characters — Martian Manhunter. This theory stems from a tiny glimpse at the character in the trailer, where his skin appears greenish. While Martian Manhunter is not a negative character, there could be many reasons he is fighting on Lex Luthor’s side.
The powers of Ultraman depicted in the trailer do align with Martian Manhunter’s powers. Martian Manhunter also possesses heat vision, super strength, and the ability to go head-to-head with Superman.
Moreover, given James Gunn’s affinity towards redeeming characters and turning them into heroes (like Adam Warlock in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3), Martian Manhunter may actually get the same treatment.
A Superman clone played by David Corenswet
The most believable and most likely theory about Ultraman is that he is a Superman clone, but controlled by Lex Luthor. If that is the case, he is also likely to be played by David Corenswet, perhaps in a different make-up.
David Corenswet playing an evil version of the character will be an interesting one, and the most realistic scenario, too.
A Superman variant played by Henry Cavill
Another theory suggests that Ultraman could be a Superman variant, portrayed by Henry Cavill. If it happens, this one addition will change everything for the DC Universe and its fanbase. In the comic storyline, Ultraman is a Superman variant from another universe. DCU is reported to have pocket dimensions in Superman and Peacemaker Season 2, so perhaps the makers can use this chance to bring back Henry Cavill as this evil Superman, captured and controlled by Lex Luthor. This will not only be a huge development but perhaps the greatest casting surprise from DC.
But this is very unlikely as Cavill may not want to return to this film after DC decided to reboot his character. So this has the slimmest of possibilities of happening. But if it does happen, it will make this one of the biggest surprises from DC so far.
Superman will release theatrically on July 11, 2025.
