David Corenswet Reveals the Intense Journey Behind His Superman Transformation: “I Didn’t Fit Into Any of My Pants”

2025 is shaping up to be a standout year for DC Studios. While “Creature Commandos” premieres this December, both James Gunn and Peter Safran have emphasized that “Superman” will mark the true beginning of the DCU.

Along with the new cinematic universe comes a fresh face for Superman. Although fans were disappointed to see Henry Cavill step down as the Man of Steel, the release of the first photos of David Corenswet in his superhero transformation quickly silenced even the harshest critics.

The actor recently appeared on the “Manly Things (Sort Of)” podcast to discuss his dramatic transformation for the role. He admitted that the process didn’t feel great at first, as his body struggled to adjust to the added weight it wasn’t used to.

I wasn’t 238 (pounds) when we started shooting. I was 238 at my max. I didn’t fit into any of my pants.

Corenswet humorously recalled the moment he realized he’d sized up to a 2XL while slipping into a Champion sweatshirt during a table read for the film.

That was at the peak of my bulk. And then I slowly lost weight before we started shooting. I started shooting at about 228, 230…I know I wanted this to be my excuse to see what it felt like to gain essentially as much weight as I could.

Corenswet is one of many male superhero actors who have recently started speaking out about the challenges of bulking up or dehydrating themselves to achieve the ideal look for a role.

Hugh Jackman also recently shared the difficulties of his intense high-calorie diet to maintain his physique for “Deadpool & Wolverine.”

Regardless, fans are eagerly awaiting Corenswet’s debut as Superman, with the movie set to hit theaters on July 11, 2025.