AceShowbiz - Michael Rosenbaum, widely celebrated for his role as Lex Luthor in the hit TV series "Smallville", recently shared his thoughts on possibly returning to the DC Universe. His iconic portrayal of Superman's arch-nemesis from the WB/CW series has left many fans questioning why he isn't featured in James Gunn's upcoming "Superman" reboot. The new Superman movie, starring David Corenswet as the Man of Steel and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, is set to take flight on July 11, 2025.

During a panel at Nashville Comicon 2024, Rosenbaum addressed this very issue, revealing that he had discussed it with his friend, filmmaker James Gunn. "I asked him, 'Why am I not in 'Superman'? Why am I not in the movie somehow?' " Rosenbaum recalled with a smile, adding, " 'It was fine, though. I wish him all the happiness. He deserves all the success he has. He's enormously talented. When it's the right thing, he'll ask me.' "

Rosenbaum is no stranger to the DC Universe, having also voiced various characters in several animated series such as "Justice League" and "Teen Titans". Beyond DC, he ventured into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, portraying the space-faring Ravager Martinex in both "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2" and "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3". However, his role there was significantly trimmed. "I'm very grateful," Rosenbaum noted, reflecting on the fun he had working with friends, despite the cuts to his character's screen time.

Interestingly, Nicholas Hoult, who has been cast as Lex Luthor in the upcoming Superman film, revealed that he drew inspiration from Rosenbaum's portrayal. Hoult stated in an interview, "I grew up. I think the first ever Lex I saw was you. You inhabit him with such depth and charm... I just loved what you did."

It appears that Rosenbaum is ready and willing to dive back into the DC Universe, should the opportunity arise. He stated, "I'm always up for a challenge. I'm always up for fun. Whatever comes to me, I look at it, and if it's not too silly, or if it makes me laugh, or I think I could do a really good job or I think I can make an impression, I'll do it."

As fans wait eagerly for the "Superman" reboot, the possibility of Rosenbaum's return to DC remains a tantalizing question mark. For now, the decision lies with James Gunn, a director known for his creative risks and deep-rooted friendships, keeping Rosenbaum's hope alive. "When your friends go off and do big things, you say, 'Hey, they know I'm here. They know my number.' And you just hope for the best," Rosenbaum concluded.