Update (Dec. 16): it turns out that Henry Cavill's next target is the entire Warhammer 40K cinematic universe.

Original Story Two recent news stories seemed to go hand in hand. First, in late October, it was announced that Henry Cavill, one of the world's best PC gamers, would be returning as Superman (opens in new tab): shortly after, he had a cameo at the end of Black Adam. After this, it was announced that Cavill would be leaving the Netflix show "The Witcher" (opens in new tab) after its third season, and that Liam Hemsworth would take over the role of Geralt.

In more funny news if Cavill wasn't such a nice guy, the star has now announced that he will not be returning as Superman in the new DC movies. These films are intended as DC's own final entry against the all-conquering Marvel Cinematic Universe and will be directed by Peter Safran and James Gunn.

As Cavill's statement makes clear, he was told something by the studio, and when these new creators were put in charge, everything changed very quickly.

"I just had a meeting with James Gunn and Peter Safran, and I have sad news, folks," Cavill wrote. 'As it turns out, I will not be returning as Superman. This news is not an easy one, as I was told to announce my return in October before I was hired by the studio, but such is life. But that's the way life is. I respect that."

Cavill's disappointment is palpable and somewhat dried up. But this is the kind of thing that anyone would hate to see happen.

"Among the candidates [for the new film] is Superman," James Gunn later wrote on Twitter (open in new tab).

"Early on, Henry Cavill will not be playing the character as the film will focus on the early part of Superman's life.

Gunn added that he and Cavill had discussed other "exciting possibilities," but that seems somewhat ludicrous. What this means for Cavill's future, or for the "Witcher" show, is anyone's guess, but given how meticulously such things are usually planned, it all seems a bit confusing.

"My turn to don the cape has passed, but what Superman represents will remain the same," Cavill's statement ends. I have enjoyed my journey with all of you, and I hope to see you all again in the future."