Actor Parker Young appears to be in the mix for the lead role in Shazam! after his audition tape surfaces online. Warner Bros. and New Line are in the final months of preparation as they gear up for another film in the DC Extended Universe to start production. They appointed David F. Sandberg as the director at the beginning of the year, and he's been tirelessly working to finalize his superhero film before production begins early next year.
Even though he is attached to direct, he does not yet have any cast members set to join him. While he will get a full ensemble without a doubt, he does have to cast two actors to make up his superhero lead. Billy Batson audition tapes recently leaked and offered up an idea of how Sandberg is approaching the youngster, but he still needs someone to play other half.
Omega Underground has uncovered a new audition tape for Shazam! that shows Parker Young's audition for the part. He's no stranger to superhero properties after joining Arrow in season four, but this would be a big step up should he land the part. Even if he doesn't, his audition offers up the first look at what Sandberg's take on Shazam is.
Young clearly has the physical traits WB would be looking for in a new leading man, but also shows quite a bit of charisma and comedic chops here as well. Since there has yet to be any announcement about who will play the superhero role, it appears to still be up for grabs. So far, John Cena and Joshua Sasse have been reported as being frontrunners, while Derek Theler has also teased he's auditioned for the role as well.
Outside of Young's chances to get the part, the way Sandberg appears to be writing Shazam and the tone he is going for is promising. He will clearly be a superhero lead in this universe that is more upbeat, with a natural sense of humor and a quick wit. Plus, there is a reference to Batman in one of the scenes, showing that this film not only takes place in the DCEU but may also reference the events of previous films. Fans shouldn't expect too big of connections at this point, but the tone appears to fall in line with WB's shift to hope and optimism moving forward. Wonder Woman was the start of that and Justice League is said to follow suit, but this is just another way of affirming Sandberg is delivering on his lighthearted approach.
More: Shazam! Working Title Revealed
Source: Omega Underground
