As the anticipation for “Superman: Legacy” continues to grow, fans are eagerly awaiting James Gunn‘s take on the iconic superhero. With the potential to make or break the DC Extended Universe (DCU), this film is undoubtedly under a spotlight of high expectations. Amidst the excitement, a star-studded ensemble cast has been assembled, each contributing to what could be a game-changing addition to the superhero genre. Among the impressive lineup, one character and actor have caught the attention of fans, even if the character’s name isn’t instantly familiar: Metamorpho.
Metamorpho is a lesser-known DC hero introduced in 1965. The character possesses the unique ability of metamorphosis, allowing him to shape-shift his body into various elements from the Periodic table and transform body parts into weapons. As an immortal mutant with elemental powers, Metamorpho offers a distinctive twist to the superhero archetype.
The character’s origin story revolves around Rex Mason, his mild-mannered alter ego. Rex, an adventurer, becomes intertwined with the mystique of an artifact known as the Orb of Ra, discovered in Egypt. The artifact’s radiation, emitted from a meteorite, leads to Rex’s gradual transformation into Metamorpho, the Element Man. This classic superhero narrative of an ordinary individual gaining extraordinary powers is a staple of the genre, resonating with fans for decades.
Portraying Metamorpho in “Superman: Legacy” is Anthony Carrigan, known for his role as NoHo Hank in “Barry.” Carrigan’s charisma, acting prowess, and personal connection to the character make him a fitting choice. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Carrigan shared his excitement and understanding of Metamorpho’s journey.
Having experienced hair loss, Carrigan humorously mentioned how he explored bald superheroes and supervillains, eventually encountering Metamorpho. Noting the character’s unique attributes, he expressed enthusiasm for the role. What makes Carrigan’s casting particularly apt is his genuine understanding of Metamorpho’s struggle with appearance-related insecurities. Carrigan himself related to this aspect, turning his personal experience into a source of strength.
As Carrigan put it, “This character… he didn’t like the way he looked, and I can really relate to that. You know, when he got his powers he thought it was a curse. That’s something that I really felt as well. In my case, I turned it around and saw it as a blessing. So I’m excited to bring that to the table with this character.”
With Carrigan’s deep appreciation for the character’s complexities and his ability to connect with Metamorpho’s emotional journey, fans have every reason to anticipate a remarkable performance. As the DCU continues to evolve and explore lesser-known characters, the addition of Metamorpho to “Superman: Legacy” adds a layer of depth and relatability to the superhero narrative.
As we await the film’s release in 2025, Carrigan’s portrayal of Metamorpho offers a fresh perspective on a classic trope, highlighting the power of personal connection in bringing characters to life on screen. In an era where superhero stories are a cornerstone of popular culture, the thoughtful casting and character exploration in “Superman: Legacy” may indeed breathe new life into the genre and captivate audiences once again.