In a cosmic crossover coup that has DC fans electrified, the upcoming Superman film, set to soar into theaters in 2025, will feature three iconic actors from the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise, as confirmed by director James Gunn in a BuzzFeed interview. This exciting news, shared via an Instagram post by BuzzFeed, has sparked widespread speculation about how these beloved voices will enhance the Man of Steel’s latest cinematic chapter.
James Gunn, the creative force behind the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy and now a key architect of the DC Universe, is renowned for blending humor, heart, and spectacle. His Superman reboot promises a fresh take on the iconic hero, and the inclusion of Pom Klementieff, Michael Rooker, and Bradley Cooper—known for their vibrant performances in the Marvel Cinematic Universe—adds a layer of intrigue. Gunn revealed, “Pom Klementieff is one of the robots. In that same scene, it’s Bradley [Cooper] and it’s Michael Rooker as another one of the robots. We’ve got two Guardians right there.” This casting choice suggests a dynamic blend of technological wonder and personality-driven charm in the Fortress of Solitude, a pivotal location in Superman’s mythos.
Set for release on July 11, 2025, Superman stars David Corenswet as Clark Kent/Superman, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. The film is expected to explore Superman’s journey as he balances his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing, offering a modern yet timeless portrayal of the world’s first superhero. The Fortress of Solitude, a crystalline sanctuary in the Arctic, has long been a place of reflection and connection to Superman’s Kryptonian roots. By featuring robots voiced by Pom Klementieff, Michael Rooker, and Bradley Cooper, Gunn appears to be infusing this sacred space with a unique energy that could redefine its role in the story.
While Gunn kept the specifics of the robots’ roles under wraps, the decision to cast actors known for their scene-stealing charisma hints at memorable, possibly humorous contributions. Fans of Guardians of the Galaxy will recognize Pom Klementieff as Mantis, Michael Rooker as Yondu, and Bradley Cooper as Rocket Raccoon, roles that showcased their ability to deliver snarky one-liners and heartfelt moments. Social media platforms like X are already abuzz with fan theories, with some speculating that the robots might serve as quirky guides or comedic foils within the Fortress, adding emotional and narrative depth.
Gunn’s transition from Marvel to DC has been closely watched, and his knack for weaving familiar collaborators into his projects underscores his collaborative approach. Having directed all three Guardians of the Galaxy films, Gunn has a talent for creating ensembles that resonate with audiences. His decision to include Pom Klementieff, Michael Rooker, and Bradley Cooper in Superman not only bridges his Marvel and DC worlds but also signals his intent to craft a film that balances reverence for the source material with bold, creative risks.
The inclusion of these Guardians stars also highlights Gunn’s penchant for rewarding loyal collaborators. Their voice cameos are a nod to the chemistry they developed under his direction, and fans can expect their performances to carry the same infectious energy that made their Marvel roles iconic. While the actors’ names are now public, the mystery surrounding their robotic characters—Will they be allies, comic relief, or something entirely unexpected?—keeps anticipation high.
As Superman continues to take shape, the film is poised to be a cornerstone of the new DC Universe, with a cast that includes Isabel Merced as Hawkgirl, Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern Guy Gardner, and Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho. The addition of Pom Klementieff, Michael Rooker, and Bradley Cooper amplifies the film’s star power and promises a unique blend of heart, humor, and heroism. With Gunn at the helm, Superman is set to soar into theaters on July 11, 2025, and these surprise cameos are just one of many reasons fans are eagerly counting down the days to its premiere.
Check out the IMAX trailer for James Gunn's Superman film:
