The Lost Superman Project
In the late 1990s J.J. Abrams wrote a new Superman script called Superman Flyby. The story imagined a Krypton that survived its explosion and a civil war that spilled onto Earth. The studio attached McG to direct and began a worldwide search for a fresh face to wear the cape.
Matt Bomer Joins the Search
Among the actors who tested for the role were Brandon Routh Henry Cavill and Brendan Fraser. The casting team also called Matt Bomer, who was best known for his work on White Collar and Doom Patrol. Bomer walked into a cattle call, answered a phone call, met the director and read with an actress. He then screen tested in a suit and signed a contract. He felt the director had chosen him for the part.
What the Script Offered
The script focused on a young Clark Kent who struggled to balance college life with his emerging powers. Bomer described the script as great and said J.J. Abrams crushed it with his vision. He imagined a Superman who was still figuring out his identity.
How the Near Miss Changed Bomer
Even though the film never moved forward the news that Bomer was a top candidate spread quickly. Hollywood buzzed about his name. Bomer recalled that suddenly everyone in Los Angeles wanted to meet him. He kept listening to Eminem’s Lose Yourself before each audition to stay focused.
Later Superman Work
Years later Bomer found a way to be part of the Superman world. He voiced a character in the 2013 animated film Superman Unbound. The role let him connect with the iconic hero even though he never wore the cape on screen.
Why the Project Fell Apart
Superman Flyby faced many hurdles. The studio struggled to agree on budget and tone. Competing Superman projects such as Superman Lives and Superman Returns also created confusion. In the end the studio shelved the film and moved on to other plans.
Legacy of the Near Miss
Matt Bomer’s brief brush with the Superman role still sparks interest among fans. It shows how a single casting decision can reshape an actor’s path. Bomer’s story reminds us that many great projects never see the light of day, but they can still impact careers.
Source: www.darkhorizons.com
