As Bryan Cranston‘s run on BREAKING BAD comes to an end in just a few weeks, rumors have the star taking on the pivotal role of Lex Luthor in the upcoming MAN OF STEEL sequel SUPERMAN VS BATMAN. Fans have been torn over which bald-headed star would be better suited for the iconic Superman foe: Cranston or Mark Strong. As of the most recent rumor, Cranston would take the role of Luthor, Strong would reprise his Sinestro role from GREEN LANTERN, and all would be well in the DC Cinematic Universe.
But now Cranston is going to pop our bubble, at least until the finale of BREAKING BAD airs, after which the rumor claims he will be announced as Luthor. In an interview with Bostom.com, Cranston refuted the casting as well as the touted multi-film deal that would come with it.
“I’ve heard that too… Six? This is all news to me. I think that maybe my name is bandied about because I’m known to be bald. ‘What bald guy can we get?’ The reality is they can take any actor and shave his head or put a bald cap on him.”
In between seasons, Cranston has grown his hair back for various roles in movies like ARGO and TOTAL RECALL. The shaved head is specifically for his role as Walter White on BREAKING BAD. While I think he would be a phenomenal choice for Luthor, I cannot argue with his denial. But, he may just be playing along per studio mandate until they are ready to make a formal announcement.
If Cranston is cast, we will find out when BREAKING BAD ends in just about a month. SUPERMAN VS BATMAN is slated to begin shooting early in 2014 and will hit theaters on July 17, 2015.