James Gunn has officially confirmed that Bradley Cooper as Jor-El will appear in the upcoming film Superman (2025). The Oscar-nominated actor will voice Superman’s Kryptonian father. While the role is brief, it has already created a buzz. DC fans are excited and speculating about Cooper’s possible return in future DCU projects.
Bradley Cooper as Jor-El in Superman (2025)
In a recent interview with Extra, Gunn finally opened up about Cooper’s involvement in the DCU. Before this, Cooper was primarily known for voicing Rocket Raccoon in the Guardians of the Galaxy series. Now, he’s stepping into a new universe — this time as Jor-El.Now, he is lending his voice to Jor-El, the biological father of Superman.
“It was a favor,” Gunn revealed. “He came in to do it for fun.”
According to Gunn, Cooper’s portrayal of Jor-El will be seen in a holographic message — a heartfelt moment where the dying father speaks to his infant son, Kal-El (David Corenswet), before sending him to Earth.
Could Bradley Cooper as Jor-El Return in the DCU?
Although Bradley Cooper as Jor-El only appears briefly in Superman (2025), Gunn left the door open for more.
“You never know,” Gunn said with a smile. “It’s possible.”
In the evolving DC Universe, possibilities abound — from flashbacks and memory recordings to alternate realities. As a result, these elements could potentially allow Jor-El to reappear in future DCU films, especially if audiences respond well to Cooper’s performance.
Considering the emotional weight of the character, along with Cooper’s past collaborations with Gunn, a recurring role is certainly not out of the question.
Superman (2025) Launches the New DCU
According to the official synopsis:
“In his signature style, James Gunn takes on the original superhero in the newly imagined DC universe with a singular blend of epic action, humor, and heart. Delivering a Superman who’s driven by compassion and an inherent belief in the goodness of humankind.”
As the first entry in the new DCU, Superman (2025) officially launches Chapter One: Gods and Monsters of the reboot. In doing so, it introduces a hopeful and grounded version of the Man of Steel, portrayed by David Corenswet, while Rachel Brosnahan steps into the role of Lois Lane.
Additionally, the film boasts a massive ensemble cast that further expands the DC Universe with both new and familiar heroes and villains:
- Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl
- Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific
- Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner
- Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho
- Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor
- Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen
- Sara Sampaio as Eve Teschmacher
- María Gabriela de Faría as The Engineer
- Wendell Pierce as Perry White
- Pruitt Taylor Vince and Neva Howell as Jonathan and Martha Kent
- Beck Bennett, Mikaela Hoover, and Christopher McDonald as Daily Planet staff
Ultimately, Superman will debut in theaters worldwide on July 11, 2025, officially marking the beginning of a bold new cinematic era for DC fans.
What Bradley Cooper as Jor-El Means for the DCU
Clearly, Bradley Cooper as Jor-El is more than just a cameo — it’s a powerful emotional link to Superman’s origin. In fact, Gunn’s decision to bring in a trusted friend further reflects his desire to inject sincerity and emotional depth into the role.
Moreover, Cooper’s involvement significantly strengthens the film’s emotional foundation. Even though Jor-El’s appearance is brief, it still sets the tone for Kal-El’s identity and moral compass. As a result, it helps shape the narrative themes of the new DCU.
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Patrick Webb