Superman actor Nicholas Hoult dives deep into the mindset of Lex Luthor, revealing the layered animosity this iconic villain feels toward the Man of Steel. The long-standing rivalry between Lex and Superman spans 85 years, and upcoming cinematic adaptations continue to explore this complex dynamic. Releasing on July 11, 2025, Hoult’s portrayal of Lex will face off against David Corenswet’s Clark Kent for the first time in what promises to be an electrifying conflict.
In a recent episode of the DC Studios Showcase podcast, Hoult elaborated on why his version of Lex harbors such intense hatred for Superman. He stated, “I think that’s what’s fun to dig into with Lex. I think one [reason] being that he’s worked to be in some ways this hero, godlike figure, and he believes he deserves this adoration and respect and love from humanity.” This internal struggle forms the crux of Lex’s enmity: a yearning for belonging overshadowed by jealousy.
Describing his interpretation of Lex as “driven by love,” Hoult explained how this emotional motivation fosters deep-seated envy toward Superman. “Then Supes turns up and kind of gets all the adoration that he feels he deserves. So there’s a little bit of that and, yeah, and jealousy and fear and all those things mixed into the melting pot, I suppose.” Therefore, the rivalry extends beyond mere opposition; it underpins a rich tapestry of emotions.
This isn’t the first time Hoult has reflected on Lex’s motivations. Earlier this year, he raised a thought-provoking question: “If someone had ultimate power and the ability to do anything, then what happens when what he does doesn’t align with everyone’s belief of what is right?” This layers his character with moral ambiguity that invites audiences to ponder the complexities of power and morality.
While on the surface Hoult’s statements may seem contradictory, they intertwine through the themes of envy and self-importance. Lex has historically been depicted as resentful of Superman’s overwhelming power and the reverence it garners. In Lex’s view, he has earned that recognition; the arrival of a seemingly effortless hero serves as a catalyst for his fury.
Most compelling versions of Lex portray his ruthless ambition fueled by this envy. What makes Hoult’s interpretation stand out is a deeper psychological need for connection and validation, echoing past versions like Smallville. This nuanced perspective elevates the character from a mere villain to a tragic figure driven by complex motivations.
As both the film’s marketing and cast statements suggest, the narrative of Superman centers significantly on the relationships between characters, particularly the tumultuous one between Superman and Lex. By enriching Lex’s motivations with a need for love and recognition, Hoult’s performance is on track to redefine the character in memorable ways, offering fans a fresh lens through which to view this legendary rivalry.