Kevin Costner Reflects on His Controversial Role in “Man of Steel” After a Decade
Kevin Costner portrayed Jonathan Kent in Zack Snyder’s DCEU, notably appearing in “Man of Steel.” The death scene of Jonathan Kent has been a contentious topic among fans, especially as Warner Bros. moves away from the DCEU towards James Gunn’s new DCU. Costner recently expressed his feelings about being in a superhero film but not having a superhero role or engaging in any “cool” action.
Despite being part of a major Hollywood franchise, Costner felt disappointed with his portrayal. In an interview with CinemaBlend, he remarked, “It’s just my luck to be in a superhero movie and be the only person that’s normal. Really? I can’t fly? And I can’t punch through a wall? Maybe I should have read this thing closer. I’m a farmer?” While he acknowledged the grounded nature of his character, he also pointed out the complexities of Jonathan’s choices, particularly in the moment where he tells Clark to stay back.
This scene remains one of the most debated moments in the film, as many fans felt that Clark could have saved his father without revealing his identity as Superman, making Jonathan’s sacrifice seem unnecessary.
As for the future of the DC universe, it appears that the DCEU is closing its chapter. While the DCEU initially drew in fans with its shared universe, mismanagement and a lack of coherent structure ultimately hindered its potential to compete with franchises like Star Wars, the Wizarding World, and the MCU. With James Gunn now at the helm of the DCU, the focus has shifted, although some elements, like “Peacemaker” and Viola Davis’s Amanda Waller, will carry over from the DCEU.
