Ta-Nehisi Coates might be better known for his bestselling books, including Between The World And Me and The Water Dancer, but he also has comic book writing experience on his CV, with runs on Marvel's Captain America and Black Panther titles. He's switching to DC for a huge new announcement, as Shadow And Act reports that he's been hired to write a new Superman film that JJ Abrams will produce for Warner Bros.
Naturally, plot details have not been announced, and no director is attached yet. The site does mention that it appears Warners will go looking for a new actor to play the iconic superhero, assuming Henry Cavill isn't invited to return. And, of course, given the DC Extended Universe's new forays into the multiverse, there's always a chance that a new Supes could exist at the same time as Cavill continues.
"To be invited into the DC Extended Universe by Warner Bros., DC Films and Bad Robot is an honor," says Coates in a statement to Shadow And Act. “I look forward to meaningfully adding to the legacy of America's most iconic mythic hero."
"There is a new, powerful and moving Superman story yet to be told. We couldn’t be more thrilled to be working with the brilliant Mr. Coates to help bring that story to the big screen, and we’re beyond thankful to the team at Warner Bros. for the opportunity," says Abrams. The writer/director/producer was, of course, onboard to develop a Superman film years ago, and it'll be fascinating to see what direction Coates takes the character. And since Michael B. Jordan met with Warners about potentially taking on the role, could we see him slip into the suit in years to come?