He’s playing the Man of Steel’s archnemesis Lex Luthor in the new DC blockbuster, and dominating the red carpet thanks to a devious combination of peroxide-blond hair, bared biceps, and polished designer looks.

Speaking to Hoult on the set of Superman last summer, the actor explained how even during the process of going after Batman and Superman, it was Lex Luthor that subtly called to him. “It’s no secret that I read for Matt Reeves’ movie and for this film with James and I feel very fortunate the way things [played] out,

Nicholas Hoult’s journey to becoming the iconic Lex Luthor in the upcoming Superman movie was far from the norm. Specifically, because the respected actor was initially auditioning to play the lead role in the highly anticipated film.