James Gunn: Superman Kills Only to Save Lives

One of the most enduring debates among superhero fans is whether Superman would ever take a life. In the DCEU, Henry Cavill’s Superman famously killed General Zod as a last resort to save innocent people. But would David Corenswet’s version of Superman make the same choice in the newly rebooted DCU?

This fresh take on Superman presents a much brighter and more optimistic hero compared to the grounded, naturalistic SnyderVerse iteration. Throughout the film, we see Superman’s deep respect for all life—human, animal, and extraterrestrial. For those unfamiliar with the character, this naturally raises the question: why does Superman refuse to kill?

In a Wired interview, Corenswet shared his perspective, which aligns with the core values we’ve long associated with the Man of Steel: “I believe the central reason is his ability to see good in almost everyone, sometimes even to a fault,” he explained. “He recognizes the potential for good even in those who wish him harm.”

James Gunn, the creative lead of the DCU, added in the same interview: “Superman holds a fundamental belief in the right to life. Taking that away simply isn’t part of his nature.”

However, Gunn clarified that this Superman might kill if absolutely necessary. “That said, I don’t take an absolutist stance. If he were forced to take a life in order to protect someone else’s, he would probably do it—though it would weigh heavily on him.”

Warning! Spoilers for Superman ahead: