The search for Brainiac in Man of Tomorrow has taken another turn, as a new report claims Matt Smith is now the frontrunner to play the iconic Superman villain.
The update comes from scooper Daniel RPK, following earlier claims from Nexus Point News that several actors were on the shortlist.
Everything we know about James Gunn's Superman follow-up is in our Man of Tomorrow explainer.
Nexus Point News previously reported that Claes Bang, Matt Smith, and Sam Rockwell were among the names being considered for the role.
Bang was rumored earlier to be one of the actors preparing to test, but with the latest info, it appears Smith may have pulled ahead.
What the New Rumor Says
Daniel RPK states that Matt Smith is currently the top choice for Brainiac as Warner Bros. and DC Studios continue casting ahead of the film’s spring shoot.
While no deal is in place, hearing Smith is the frontrunner suggests the studio is leaning toward a specific interpretation of the villain.
Why Matt Smith Fits the Role
Smith has become a go-to performer for larger-than-life, transformative characters. His work on Doctor Who and House of the Dragon shows his range between eccentric, menacing, and unpredictable. It has also been reported Smith was supposed to play a younger, possibly cloned, version of Emperor Palpatine in Star Wars: Rise of the Skywalker.
A Brainiac played with cold, alien intelligence would fall comfortably within that wheelhouse.
His physical presence, angular features, and ability to shift between calm charm and unsettling intensity have already made him a favorite in fan discussions.
Man of Tomorrow release info
Man of Tomorrow flies into theaters on July 9, 2027, written and directed by James Gunn.
The confirmed cast includes David Corenswet as Superman, Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, and recently Frank Grillo confirmed his return as Rick Flag Jr.
The story follows Superman and Lex teaming up to take on a larger threat.
Also returning, according to IMDb, includes Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Maria Gabriela de Faria as The Engineer, and Milly Alcock as Supergirl.
