The Superman Of A New Generation: Henry Cavill

Piercing blue eyes, chiselled features and tall, toned stature describe the man who is Henry Cavill. It’s no wonder he’s the Superman of our generation. Cavill returns to the big screens as the man of steel in DC’s latest blockbuster, Justice League.

- Hannah May-Lee Wong

Henry William Dalgliesh Cavill was born on the 5th of May, 1983 to Marianne Dalgliesh and Colin Cavill, a stockbroker. He was born in Jersey, one of the Channel Islands between England and France, making him the first British actor to ever play Superman on the big screen. Henry grew up in a big family, being one of five brothers.

Young Henry attended school in Buckinghamshire, England. There, he played rugby, a sport he still follows to this day, supporting the England national rugby union team. In 2000, actor Russell Crowe happened to be filming Proof of Life at the school Henry attended. Unbeknownst to Henry, Russell Crowe noticed him as Henry was playing rugby. His dominance and fluidity on the field caught the attention of the already famous actor.

After the rugby match, 16-year-old Henry made his way to shake Russell Crowe’s hand, as you do when you’re a teenager meeting a famous star. From that moment, all Henry could ask Russell were questions about acting. He asked what it was like being an actor and if Russell could offer any tips on becoming an actor. The encounter must have left a deep impression because as soon as Russell got back to his home country (Australia), he thoughtfully sent Henry a package for encouragement.

The package Henry received read “Dear Henry, a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Russell.” The package came complete with a signed autograph from Russell, an Australian Rugby jersey, some Australian snacks and a music CD.

One can only imagine the excitement Henry must have felt as a teenager receiving such a gift from a famous movie star.

Fast-forward 10 years: young Henry has blossomed into one of the most sought-after actors in Hollywood. As fate would have it, the young and veteran actors were reunited when Russell was cast as Superman’s father, leading to the two working and appearing on screen together.