One of the most enduring debates among superhero fans is whether Superman would ever take a life. In the DCEU, Henry Cavill’s Superman ultimately killed General Zod as a last resort to save innocent people. But would David Corenswet’s version of the hero make the same choice in the new DCU?
This rebooted Superman presents a brighter, more hopeful tone compared to the grounded and gritty SnyderVerse iteration. Throughout the film, he demonstrates deep compassion for all life—human, animal, and alien alike. For those new to the character, it naturally raises the question: Why does Superman avoid killing?
In a Wired interview, Corenswet shared his perspective, which aligns with the core values Superman has always stood for: “I believe the primary reason is that he sees goodness in almost everyone, sometimes to a fault,” he explained. “Even those who wish him harm aren’t beyond his sense of empathy.”
James Gunn, the creative lead of the DCU, added in the same video: “Superman holds a fundamental belief in the right to life. Taking someone’s life simply isn’t part of his nature.”
However, Gunn also clarified that under extreme circumstances, this Superman might resort to lethal force. “I’m not an absolutist on this. If he had no other choice—for instance, to save someone’s life—he would likely do it, though it would weigh heavily on him.”
Warning! Spoilers for Superman ahead: