Bradley Cooper played the role in James Gunn’s film because of friendship, know the whole story
Superhero Fave Among Friends
James Gunn’s blockbuster Superman film features a surprising face in its opening moments.
Bradley Cooper stars as Jor-El, Superman’s father—a role once played by the great Marlon Brando.
But how did this casting come about? Turns out, it was all down to friendship.
From Rocket Raccoon to Kryptonian Scientist
Gunn and Cooper’s creative relationship dates back to the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy, where Cooper voiced fan-favorite Rocket Raccoon.
When it came time to cast Superman’s father, Gunn turned to someone he knew could play the part.
Following in Brando’s Footsteps
“I needed someone who could play Jor-El who had the stature that we envisioned for that character, someone who could follow in Marlon Brando’s footsteps,” Gunn explained.
This was no small task, especially considering Brando’s iconic performance in the 1978 Christopher Reeve film.
Casting by Age
Gunn had a specific vision for Jor-El that was different from previous interpretations.
“A lot of times, Jor-El is played by a 70-year-old man and that means he was 70 when he had the baby,” the director said. “I wanted someone who wasn’t too old.”
Just a Little Phone Call
When everyone was suggesting actors who Gunn thought were too old for the role, he reached out to Cooper directly.
“Bradley was perfect,” Gunn shared. “He did it as a favor for me because he’s my friend, and I was really grateful for him doing it.”
Small but Meaningful Appearances
In the film, Cooper appears alongside Angela Sarafyan (as Lara Lor-Van) in a voice recording that explains why baby Kal-El was sent to Earth.
Though brief, this cameo lays the emotional groundwork for the entire story.
Star-Studded Secret Appearances
Cooper isn’t the only familiar face making a surprise appearance.
The Superman reboot also features cameos from Will Reeve (Christopher Reeve’s son), John Cena, Sean Gunn, Pom Klementieff, Michael Rooker, and Milly Alcock as Supergirl.
Box Office Success
The David Corenswet-led Superman has been flying high at the box office since its release on July 11.
The film introduces us to an already established Clark Kent who works at the Daily Planet and dates Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan), while battling Nicholas Hoult’s tech billionaire Lex Luthor.
Sometimes in Hollywood, the most memorable casting choices depend on a simple phone call between friends.