Patrick Schwarzenegger Shares Insights on Auditioning for James Gunn's Superman

Mar 2, 2025 at 3:15 PM

In a recent interview, Patrick Schwarzenegger, known for his role in The White Lotus, discussed his experience auditioning for the lead role in James Gunn’s new Superman film. Although he did not advance far in the casting process, Schwarzenegger provided an interesting look into the competitive world of superhero auditions. He mentioned that this was one of only a few superhero roles he had tried out for, including Homelander in The Boys and Golden Boy in Gen V. The audition for Superman was conducted via self-tape, and Schwarzenegger did not receive any feedback from the casting team. Ultimately, David Corenswet was chosen for the role. This revelation offers a glimpse into the rigorous selection process for major superhero films.

Details of Patrick Schwarzenegger's Audition Experience

In the midst of a vibrant acting career, Patrick Schwarzenegger recently shared his journey through the casting process for a highly anticipated superhero film. During an engaging conversation on the podcast Happy Sad Confused, Schwarzenegger revealed that he participated in the casting call for James Gunn’s upcoming Superman project. The casting process, which aimed to find fresh talent, included numerous hopefuls who were not established stars. Schwarzenegger clarified that his involvement did not progress beyond the initial stages.

Schwarzenegger also touched upon his experiences with virtual auditions, noting that almost all of his post-pandemic auditions have been conducted over Zoom. These sessions, characterized by their unique format, often involve participants performing scenes alone on screen, leading to some awkward moments during interactions. Despite the challenges, Schwarzenegger successfully secured a role in the third season of The White Lotus, portraying a character quite different from the iconic superhero.

Ultimately, while Schwarzenegger did not land the coveted Superman role, his reflections provide valuable insights into the competitive nature of Hollywood auditions and the evolving methods used in casting.

From a journalist's perspective, Schwarzenegger’s openness about his audition experience highlights the perseverance required in the entertainment industry. It underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability, especially as technology continues to shape the audition process. His candid remarks serve as a reminder that success in acting often involves navigating numerous opportunities and setbacks, each offering valuable lessons along the way.