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Brendan Fraser Says He Screen-Tested for J.J. Abrams’ Scrapped Superman, Calls Script ‘Shakespeare in Space’

He recalls locked-room script access that made him weigh the cost of lifelong character branding.

Overview

  • Fraser said he was a frontrunner on the early‑2000s project, completed a screen test, and wore the Superman suit but was barred from taking photos.
  • He detailed strict safeguards around the screenplay, including an NDA, reading it alone in an empty office, and black text printed on crimson paper to prevent copying.
  • The actor praised the script as “Shakespeare in space,” calling it a strong piece of writing despite the film never moving forward.
  • He told the Happy Sad Confused podcast he felt anxiety about being identified as Superman for the rest of his career and questioned whether he was ready for that commitment.
  • The project corresponds to J.J. Abrams’ long-circulated Superman: Flyby with Brett Ratner attached, which trade reports say was shelved over soaring budget concerns, and there is no indication it is being revived.