Well I think it’s safe to say that no one saw this coming. After all the speculation over who will play Lex Luthor in Zack Snyder’s BATMAN VS SUPERMAN, Warner Bros and DC Entertainment have finally revealed the actor who will embody Superman’s chrome-domed arch nemesis.
With internet rumours favouring the likes of Bryan Cranston (BREAKING BAD) and Joaquin Phoenix (HER) for the role, it comes as a huge shock to learn that Lex Luthor will be played by none other than Jesse Eisenberg (ZOMBIELAND, THE SOCIAL NETWORK). And if that wasn’t enough to cause a worldwide internet meltdown, the official announcement also reveals that Jeremy Irons (THE LION KING, THE BORGIAS) will play Batman’s faithful butler Alfred Pennyworth in the superhero team up extravaganza. You can read the official press release below which contains a quote from Zack Snyder on the casting:
BURBANK, CA, January 31, 2014 – Warner Bros. Pictures announced today that Jess Eisenberg has been set to star as Lex Luthor and Jeremy Irons will play Alfred in the upcoming Zack Snyder untitled Superman/Batman film. The dual announcement was made today by Greg Silverman, President, Creative Development and Worldwide Production, and Sue Kroll, President, Worldwide Marketing and International Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures. Snyder stated, “Lex Luthor is often considered the most notorious of Superman’s rivals, his unsavory reputation preceding him since 1940. What’s great about Lex is that he exists beyond the confines of the stereotypical nefarious villain. He’s a complicated and sophisticated character whose intellect, wealth and prominence position him as one of the few mortals able to challenge the incredible might of Superman. Having Jesse in the role allows us to explore that interesting dynamic, and also take the character in some new and unexpected directions.” The director added, “As everyone knows, Alfred is Bruce Wayne’s most trusted friend, ally and mentor, a noble guardian and father figure. He is an absolutely critical element in the intricate infrastructure that allows Bruce Wayne to transform himself into Batman. It is an honor to have such an amazingly seasoned and gifted actor as Jeremy taking on the important role of the man who mentors and guides the guarded and nearly impervious façade that encapsulates Bruce Wayne.”
Although Eisenberg is probably the last person that anyone would have expected for the role of Luthor, he is actually a very inspired casting choice and would be excellent after his recent performances in THE SOCIAL NETWORK and NOW YOU SEE ME. Irons is another great casting choice who will easily fit into the role of Bruce Wayne’s mentor and surrogate father Alfred, however he is a much more predictable addition to the ensemble film.
BATMAN VS SUPERMAN stars Henry Cavill, Ben Affleck, Amy Adams, Lawrence Fishburne, Diane Lane, Jesse Eisenberg and Jeremy Irons. Check back with the Hollywood News for more updates on the film.
Source: Warner Bros
