As anticipation builds for James Gunn’s highly anticipated reboot of the Superman franchise, one of the film’s newest cast members, Wendell Pierce, has provided some candid thoughts on taking on the iconic role of Daily Planet editor-in-chief, Perry White.
In a recent appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers, Pierce acknowledged that he didn’t grow up as an avid comic book reader, instead relying on friends to familiarize him with the Superman mythos. “I’m looking forward to this,” Pierce stated. “I never grew up reading comics, so I relied on my friends to tell me about it. I’m excited about this, you know.”
The accomplished television actor, known for roles in shows like The Wire, Suits, and Jack Ryan, admitted that at this stage, Meyers may actually know more about the character and storyline than he does. This humble assessment suggests Pierce is approaching the role with a fresh, outside perspective, rather than trying to strictly adhere to previous on-screen interpretations of the gruff, no-nonsense newspaper editor.
“I’m excited about this, you know,” Pierce reiterated, indicating he’s eager to put his own stamp on the iconic character. Perry White has been a crucial supporting player in Superman’s adventures since the character’s comic book debut in 1940, often serving as a mentor and confidant to Clark Kent.
While Pierce may not have the same deep well of Superman knowledge as some fans, his acclaimed acting pedigree and willingness to embrace the character’s essence in his own way could prove to be a valuable asset in Gunn’s reinvention of the DC superhero. The director has promised a bold, new take on the Man of Steel, and Pierce’s self-professed unfamiliarity with the source material may allow him to bring a unique interpretation to the Daily Planet’s veteran editor.
As production on Gunn’s Superman continues, fans will no doubt be keeping a close eye on how Pierce’s Perry White shapes up alongside the film’s other high-profile cast members, including Clark Kent/Superman, Lex Luthor, Rachel Brosnahan, and Isabela Merced. With the actor’s honest assessment of his limited comic book knowledge, the stage is set for Pierce to craft a fresh, compelling version of this iconic supporting character.
