While we weren't entirely sure about a Superman reboot, as soon as we heard that Ta-Nehisi Coates was penning the script [1], we changed our tune. Particularly when we learned they'd be exploring the origins of a Black Superman [2]. Plot details are scarce at the moment, and the particular version of Superman they are using has yet to be confirmed. Depending on which Superman they choose, we have gone very different routes with our dream cast. If it's Clark Kent, the original and best known Superman, the actor needs to have the charms and wits about him to pull off the dual-identity. For Calvin Ellis [3], a Kryptonian from a parallel universe named Kalel that eventually becomes president, they need to be tough and have the bravado that comes with a politician. And for Val-Zod [4], who is the last Kryptonian in his universe that started out as a pacifist, they need to be soft yet tough at the same time.

Although the Internet has already designated Michael B. Jordan as the perfect candidate, he's already been a major part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, so, sadly, this means he's likely out of the running. As is Jonathan Majors, who's been cast as Kang the Conquerer [5] for the upcoming Ant-Man 3. You know who isn't out of the running? The nine actors on this list, including Aldis Hodge, Trevante Rhodes, and more.

Jay Ellis as Clark Kent

We're already imagining the Insecure star in a pair of glasses as he tries to hide his identity from the rest of his Daily Planet coworkers. Although he's not had experience playing a superhero, he has proven he can be charming and the kind of guy you'd love to take home.

Aldis Hodge as Clark Kent

What can we say about Mr. Hodge that hasn't already been said? His turn in The Invisible Man [6] demonstrates that he's ready to go toe-to-toe with anyone, even when the odds are stacked against him. If you're worried he couldn't live up to expectations, he blew everyone away with his portrayal of the legendary Jim Brown in One Night in Miami. And we'd love to see him in those tights . . . just saying.

Stephan James as Clark Kent

The Homecoming star has the perfect balance of wholesome and charismatic that one needs to embody Clark Kent fully. He's also a good choice if they're looking to start on the younger side of Clark's origins and want someone that can stick with the character for a while.

Trevante Rhodes as Calvin Ellis

You only need to look at Rhodes's performance in Moonlight to know that he would kill it as Val-Zod, who was inspired by Barack Obama. He'd bring emotion to the role that would give Superman a level of emotional intelligence we haven't seen before. Plus the Internet is really pulling for him if Michael B. Jordan can't be in the running for the role.

John Boyega as Calvin Ellis

The Star Wars franchise didn't utilise Boyega the way they should have, so he might not be too keen to join yet another big franchise. However, he's an extremely versatile actor that would bring the needed grace and poise for a superhero that also happens to become president. Could you imagine Boyega chilling at the White House as he gets a call to save the day? We can.

Eli Goree as Calvin Ellis

Goree already has experience with the DC Universe, playing James Jackson on an episode of Legends of Tomorrow. But he hasn't played a superhero like Calvin Ellis, and that needs fixing immediately! We fell in love with him [7] as Muhammad Ali in One Night in Miami and are ready to fall in love with him as he saves the day.

Jordan Calloway as Val-Zod

Black Lightning being cancelled is a travesty. To make up for it, DC should think about casting Calloway as Val-Zod. It would be interesting to see him switch from a supervillain to a superhero, and he could bring that mentality to the role. He also has the superhero look about him.

Mason Gooding as Val-Zod

Gooding has yet to be in any big-name franchises, although he has a role in the upcoming Scream. He's a big nerd — just look at his Instagram [8] — and he'd probably have a lot of fun committing to the role. We're talking, dressing up at comic conventions, and interacting with fans in character, committed.

Keith Powers as Val-Zod

Doesn't Powers have a name that just screams superhero? There's also the fact that his favourite superhero is from the DC universe. Alright, he actually likes the Joker [9], who isn't a superhero at all, but maybe he's into unconventional heroes! Those are definitely the vibes that Val-Zod gives off.