A new rumor suggests Danish actor Claes Bang is in the mix to play Brainiac in James Gunn’s Man of Tomorrow, following the recent confirmation that the character is the villain of the Superman sequel. The update comes from Apocalyptic Horseman on X, who claims he has also heard Bang’s name but stresses the role is not locked in yet.
According to the rumor, Bang is one of several actors expected to test for the character. The casting process is still underway, and no decision has been made as DC Studios moves toward production on the 2027 film.
Where the Rumor Comes From
Apocalyptic Horseman wrote that he “heard Claes Bang too,” adding that it’s “pretty obvious” at this point. He also noted that a handful of other actors are being considered, which means the studio is still evaluating options. This lines up with the timeline, as Man of Tomorrow is gearing up to shoot this spring.
Bang is known for his roles in The Northman, Dracula and The Square, and his physicality and presence have already made him a popular fan choice for Brainiac. The rumor now adds more fuel to that speculation.
Since it’s pretty obvious I can confirm I heard Claes Bang too. But there’s a handful of others who are going to be tested so it’s undecided https://t.co/MBAjzKsmg9
— Apocalyptic Horseman (@ApocHorseman) November 14, 2025
Why Claes Bang Fits Brainiac
Bang’s performances often lean into cold, controlled intensity, which matches the traditional portrayal of Brainiac as a calculating, detached antagonist. With Gunn reportedly pushing the sequel toward a larger, cosmic threat, Bang fits the type of actor who could bring that tone to life.
While nothing is confirmed, the combination of the villain reveal and today’s casting rumor suggests Brainiac’s role will be central to the movie’s conflict and tone.
Interestingly enough, Gunn also cast Danish actor Ulrich Thomsen as Sinestro in the upcoming DCU Lanterns series.
Casting Still Open
What’s clear is that DC Studios has not finalized the actor. Multiple tests are expected before the role is awarded, and Gunn is known for choosing actors based on chemistry reads and fit with the script.
More updates are expected as testing moves forward and Man of Tomorrow reaches the final stages of its pre-production casting process.
Release info
The film flies into theaters on July 9, 2027, directed and written by James Gunn.
Starring includes David Corenswet as Superman, Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, and Frank Grillo as Rick Flag Sr.
According to IMDb, also starring includes Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Maria Gabriela de Faria as The Engineer, and Milly Alcock as Supergirl.
