Matt Bomer reflects on missed opportunity to play Superman due to sexuality

Actor Matt Bomer, now 46, opens up about how his sexuality may have cost him the chance to portray Superman in the early 2000s, shedding light on an industry where personal information could be wielded as a weapon against actors.

Actor Matt Bomer, 46, recently disclosed on The Hollywood Reporter's Awards Chatter podcast that he believes he missed out on the chance to play Superman in the early 2000s because of his sexuality. Bomer, who later came out publicly in 2012, explained that this was a time in the industry when such information could be used against actors.

The role in question was for a film titled Superman: Flyby, written by J.J. Abrams and initially set to be directed by Brett Ratner. Bomer detailed a grueling month-long audition process and stated that Ratner had chosen him for the role. However, Ratner left the project in 2003, citing difficulties with casting the lead character, and was later embroiled in multiple allegations of sexual misconduct.

Various accounts have emerged about the factors leading to Bomer not securing the role. According to author Jackie Collins, his sexuality was a significant reason, while other sources argue that it was Ratner's departure that led to a change in casting direction.

The Superman movie envisioned by Abrams was eventually shelved, making way for Bryan Singer's 2006 film Superman Returns, starring Brandon Routh. Bomer later voiced Superman in the 2013 animated film Superman: Unbound.