Put aside the rumors of True Blood star Joe Manganiello as a frontrunner to play Clark Kent in the next Superman film as Zack Snyder and co. have found someone else to play their Kryptonian hero.

Henry Cavill (The Tudors, Stardust) has been officially cast as Clark Kent/Superman in Superman: Man of Steel. Warner Bros. confirmed the news this morning along with Zack Snyder's comments on Cavill as his leading star.

"In the pantheon of superheroes, Superman is the most recognized and revered character of all time, and I am honored to be a part of his return to the big screen. I also join Warner Bros., Legendary and the producers in saying how excited we are about the casting of Henry. He is the perfect choice to don the cape and S shield."

The 27 year-old Cavill, while relatively unknown compared to fellow DC superhero actors Christian Bale and Ryan Reynolds, is a growing star and certainly has the look to play a younger Clark Kent, a much younger Clark Kent compared to the rumors of 40 year-old Jon Hamm of Mad Men fame playing the iconic character.

Cavill can be seen later this year playing Theseus in Immortals, starring alongside Mickey Rourke, John Hurt and Kellan Lutz and was a key character in The Tudors for its entire run, working with Jonathan Rhys Meyers.

Henry Cavill as Clark Kent in Superman: Man of Steel

The story of the Superman reboot won't be a full origin story and may differ from the comic books significantly in that respect. The story originates from the minds of Christopher Nolan, who was previously set to produce the project, and comic book movie veteran, David S. Goyer. Goyer is penning the script for Zack Snyder.

As for what the story of the new Superman movie will be about, Snyder explains it has no ties to previous franchise films and is not based on any specific comic book story.

"As I have already explained, the film will focus on early days of Superman, so there will be no links with other films. This is not a remake then. Similarly, although I still can not talk about the script, I can assure you that this new Superman will not be based on a comic book in particular."

What do you think of Cavill as the new Clark Kent and who should play Lois Lane?

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[Update: Click here for more on the story behind Henry Cavill's casting as Superman!]

Superman: Man of Steel is targeting a December 2012 release date.

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