When young Iowa-born actor Brandon Routh was cast by director Bryan Singer as Clark Kent and his alter-ego Superman in soon-to-be-released blockbuster Superman Returns, there was a fair degree of surprise in Hollywood. While Singer had suggested that he wanted an unknown actor to take Superman into the 21st century, few thought that he would opt for someone with no big screen experience, as Routh had previously only appeared in a number of TV shows such as Will & Grace.

However, Routh has taken up the mantle left by Christopher Reeve with gusto, suggesting that the role has a tremendous legacy that the young actor is proud to be a part of. And insiders feel that Routh has made the part his own with a performance of both strength and vulnerability.

Brandon Routh was born in Des Moines, Iowa on 9 October 1979. He grew up in Norwalk, Iowa and then attended the University of Iowa, starring in productions at the Norwalk Theater of Performing Arts as he began his acting career.

Brandon made the jump to professional acting in the series "Odd Man Out" (1999, ABC Television), before going on to guest star in the series "Gilmore Girls" (2000) and "Undressed" (1999).

Trivia

Aged 6, Brandon was so excited about watching Superman, dressed in his Superman pajamas, that he gave himself a migraine.

Brandon went to a Halloween party in 2003 as Clark Kent/Superman. He was awarded the film role one year later by Bryan Singer.

The 21st century Superman does not just care about America, even though he was raised in America, his love is American, and he works in an American newspaper. Brandon feels that Superman has to be universal.

Filmography

Superman Returns (2006)
Karla (2006)
"Oliver Beene" (2004) TV Episode
"Will & Grace" (2004) TV Episode
"Cold Case" (2003) TV Episode
"One Life to Live" (2001-2002)
"Gilmore Girls" (2001) TV Episode
"Undressed" (1999) TV Series
"Odd Man Out" (1999) TV Episode