Imagine being handed a script so secretive, it’s printed on crimson paper to prevent copying, and being locked in an empty office to read it. That’s exactly what happened to Brendan Fraser when he screen-tested for J.J. Abrams’ never-realized Superman movie. But here’s where it gets controversial: Fraser, fresh off the success of The Mummy franchise, wasn’t sure he was ready for the weight of becoming the Man of Steel. Was this hesitation a missed opportunity, or a wise decision to avoid being typecast for life? Let’s dive in.
Fraser, known for his versatile roles including The Rental Family, recently shared his experience on Josh Horowitz’s Happy Sad Confused podcast. He described the screenplay as nothing short of extraordinary: “It was Shakespeare in space,” he recalled. The script, shrouded in secrecy, left a lasting impression on him, even though the project never saw the light of day. Warner Bros. ultimately chose Bryan Singer’s Superman Returns (2006) instead.
And this is the part most people miss: Fraser admitted feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety about the role. “If I do get this job, then Superman’s gonna be chipped on my gravestone,” he reflected. The idea of being forever associated with such an iconic character was daunting. While he acknowledged the opportunity’s grandeur, he questioned whether he was prepared to let it define his career. “It becomes part of your entire brand, who you are,” he explained. This raises a thought-provoking question: Should actors embrace the chance to play legendary characters, or is there wisdom in preserving their artistic versatility?
Fast forward to today, and the Superman saga continues. Despite James Gunn’s upcoming 2025 Superman film starring David Corenswet, Abrams’ version remains in development. In 2021, it was announced that Abrams was producing a reboot with Ta-Nehisi Coates as the writer, set in an alternate universe. This dual-track approach to Superman’s story adds another layer of intrigue: Which version will truly soar, and does the world need more than one Man of Steel?
Fraser’s journey with this project ultimately led him to embrace a philosophy shared by filmmaker Terry George: “What’s not for you will pass you by.” But as fans and critics alike, we’re left wondering—was this a role Fraser should have fought harder for, or did he dodge a bullet by avoiding the Superman legacy? Share your thoughts in the comments—this debate is far from over!
