Henry Cavill has announced he won't be returning to his role as Superman in the new movie.
The actor, 39, took to social media to reveal the "sad news" and said the decision wasn't the easiest to digest.
The British star first took up the position as the caped crusader in 2013, starring in Man of Steel. However, he has confirmed his run as the superhero is now over - months after Netflix surprisingly announced he was no longer to feature in The Witcher.
In an emotional Instagram post, he told his 22.9 million followers: "I have just had a meeting with James Gunn and Peter Safran and it's sad news, everyone.
"I will, after all, not be returning as Superman. After being told by the studio to announce my return back in October, prior to their hire, this news isn't the easiest, but that's life."
![](https://i2-prod.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article28736709.ece/ALTERNATES/s810/0_BATMAN-V-SUPERMAN-DAWN-OF-JUSTICE.jpg)
He continued: "The changing of the guard is something that happens. I respect that. James and Peter have a universe to build."
After wishing the producers the best of luck, Henry went on to tell his supporters that they can "mourn for a bit" about his departure, but remember that "Superman is still around".
"Everything he stands for still exists," he said. "And the examples he sets for us are still there! My turn to wear the cape has passed, but what Superman stands for never will."
![](https://i2-prod.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article28736710.ece/ALTERNATES/s810/0_MOS-41140c.jpg)
He ended by saying it's been a "fun ride with you all, onwards and upwards".
Fans and followers were quick to praise the star for his performances in the movies. Among those paying their respects was Shazam! star Zachary Levi, who commented: "Hope to catch you in another universe, sir."
Reality TV star Chris Sapphire added: "You have been the BEST Superman in a long time! Whoever does it next has some huge super shoes to fill. Cheers to whatever comes next for you!"
And Wild At Heart's Ana Breco, shared her dismay at the news, writing: "Noooooooooo," alongside a crying emoji face.
![](https://i2-prod.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article28736711.ece/ALTERNATES/s810/0_Henry-Cavill-spotted-leaving-Good-Morning-America-studios-in-New-York-City.jpg)
![](https://i2-prod.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article28736712.ece/ALTERNATES/s810/0_Mission-Impossible-Fallout-China-Press-Junket.jpg)
The news comes after Netflix revealed Henry won't be returning to fantasy series The Witcher, but will instead be replaced by Liam Hemsworth.
In a similar fashion to the Superman news, fans didn't take too kindly to the change and threatened to boycott the series.
The news broke in October as it was announced Henry will continue to play his character in the third season, before he hands the baton over to Liam for series four.
* Follow Mirror Celebs on Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.