‘Bridgerton’ Star Reportedly Lost Role As Superman’s Grandfather Because He’s Black

Geoff Johns, the former chairman of DC Films, reportedly rejected the idea of a Black man portraying Superman’s grandfather in the Syfy comic book series Krypton.

The creators of the Syfy comic book series Krypton had hoped to make some progressive casting choices when they first set out to make the TV series, but the former chairman of DC Films reportedly rejected some of their ideas. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the team behind Krypton was “passionate about doing some nontraditional casting,” including making one superhero gay or bisexual, as well as making Superman‘s grandfather a Black man, the latter of which Bridgerton star Regé-Jean Page auditioned for. But Geoff Johns vetoed the idea, allegedly saying in regards to the second one that, “Superman could not have a Black grandfather.”

Upon publishing of the Reporter’s piece, a representative for Johns said that he “believed fans expected the character [of Superman’s grandfather] to look like a young Henry Cavill,” which is why a Black actor couldn’t portray Superman’s grandfather.

Page seemed to address the claim that he was denied the role because of his race on Twitter, saying: “Hearing about these conversations hurts no less now than it did back then. The clarifications almost hurt more tbh. Still just doing my thing. Still we do the work. We still fly.”

The actor didn’t specifically mention if he was speaking about Krypton or not.

Also included in the Reporter piece was Ray Fisher speaking about his experience working with Joss Whedon for Justice League, and the disagreements he had with both Whedon and Johns over the portrayal of his charatcer Cyborg.