Whoopi Goldberg is sharing her heartfelt admiration for David Corenswet’s portrayal of Superman in the new film. During The View on Thursday, July 10, Goldberg, 69, opened up about how Corenswet’s depiction of Superman touched her deeply, particularly for his kindness and moral integrity.
Kindness Over Quips
Goldberg explained that as she watched the film, she initially struggled with her emotions. “I have to say something to you,” she began, addressing Corenswet and his co-star Rachel Brosnahan. “When I was sitting and I was watching… I kept waiting for Superman to become quippy, and he’s not that.
He’s never been that.” Goldberg then revealed the true reason behind her emotional response: “I forgot what kindness looked like.” She added that, for a moment, she realized she had been waiting for Superman to become something he wasn’t – cynical or witty – and instead, he was simply kind-hearted and genuine.
“I fell in love with you as Superman,” she said to Corenswet, visibly moved by his portrayal.
A Nod to Christopher Reeve
Goldberg, who was close friends with the late Christopher Reeve — the actor known for portraying Superman from 1978 to 1987 — reflected on how Corenswet’s Superman reminded her of Reeve’s iconic, noble take on the character.
“It allowed me to question myself: who have I become that I didn’t recognize the kindness?” Goldberg confessed, admitting the film made her reconsider what she had been expecting from the character.
She expressed her surprise at how Corenswet’s depiction of Superman made her remember that Superman is more than a superhero — he is, at his core, a kind and compassionate hero, something she hadn’t realized she was missing.
David Corenswet on Wearing the Superman Costume
Corenswet also shared his own experience of donning the iconic Superman costume for the first time. He admitted that wearing it on set was a nerve-wracking moment.
“I must admit I had to muster some courage that I didn’t really feel in that moment,” he said, revealing that he gained 40 pounds for the role to fit into the superhero suit.
He then recalled an emotional moment when he saw some of the crew members, typically professional and gruff, transform into “10-year-old boys” upon seeing him in the Superman suit.
“That was when I thought, ‘Okay, this might work,'” Corenswet said, noting the powerful effect Superman has on people of all ages.
The New Superman Movie
The new Superman film, written and directed by James Gunn, sees Clark Kent/Superman facing off against multiple villains, including Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor, while grappling with the consequences of trying to prevent a global war. Rachel Brosnahan stars alongside Corenswet as Lois Lane.
The film also features a star-studded cast, including Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, Milly Alcock as Supergirl, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, and Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern.
Superman hits theaters on July 11.
