Actor Henry Cavill has lost his role as Superman. 

The British actor broke the news on his Instagram, noting it was not "the easiest" thing to disclose.

He had earlier excited fans by stating his return to the franchise.

“I will, after all, not be returning as Superman,” wrote Mr Cavill on Friday, December 16, 2022.

“After being told by the studio to announce my return back in October, prior to their hire, this news isn’t the easiest, but that’s life," he bemoaned. 

According to reports, the Guardians of the Galaxy director and DC Studios’ new co-chairman, James Gunn is apparently writing a new universe for the superhero character, with a focus on his younger years as the Daily Planet's Clark Kent.  

This excludes the man who has played the iconic role since 2013's 'Man of Steel'. He assures his fans that he respects the decision.

"The changing of the guard is something that happens. I respect that. James and Peter have a universe to build," Henry Cavill's statement said. 

"I wish them and all involved with the new universe the best of luck, and the happiest of fortunes,” he added.

On Twitter Mr Gunn also wrote: “Peter & I have a DC slate ready to go, which we couldn’t be more over-the-moon about; we’ll be able to share some exciting information about our first projects at the beginning of the new year.

“Among those on the slate is Superman. In the initial stages, our story will be focusing on an earlier part of Superman’s life, so the character will not be played by Henry Cavill. But we just had a great meeting with Henry and we’re big fans and we talked about a number of exciting possibilities to work together in the future.”

Henry recently did a cameo as Superman in the 2022 movie 'Black Adam' starring Dwayne Johnson. The scene was shot in the UK Warner Bros studio.

Earlier in October, Cavill who played Geralt of Rivia in Netflix's sensational 'The Witcher' confirmed he would be leaving the series. Australian Liam Hemsworth was revealed as his replacement. Cavill has played the Witcher for three seasons.

It was after this disclosure that he indicated his return as Superman, which was not to be.

It is speculated that the 39-year-old had intended to commit more fully to his DC Comics Superman role, prompting his resignation as the Witcher on Netflix.