Thescreescore – Following a critically acclaimed debut as the Man of Steel in James Gunn’s Superman last summer, actor David Corenswet is set to broaden his cinematic horizons with his first non-DCU feature in two years. This highly anticipated project, an untitled Paramount film, has now secured a Christmas Day 2026 release, strategically positioned just months after his anticipated return as Superman in Supergirl. This move signals a deliberate pivot for Corenswet, showcasing his range beyond the iconic cape.
The project, helmed by director Jonathan Levine (Warm Bodies, Long Shot), delves into the inspiring true story of John Tuggle. Tuggle, an American football player, earned the moniker "Mr. Irrelevant" after being the very last pick in the 1983 NFL Draft by the New York Giants. Despite the seemingly dismissive title, Tuggle’s unwavering spirit and unexpected impact profoundly reshaped perceptions within the team and the broader football landscape. Levine is also producing alongside Gillian Bohrer and Nick Santora. Corenswet will share the screen with formidable talents like Michael Shannon, known for his own DC cinematic history in Man of Steel, and rising star Isabel May from 1883. This addition brings Paramount’s domestic film slate for 2026 to a robust thirteen titles.
The Tuggle biopic’s December release follows Corenswet’s next DCU appearance by approximately six months. He is confirmed to reprise his role as Superman in Supergirl, set to premiere on June 26, 2026. Directed by Craig Gillespie, Supergirl will introduce Milly Alcock in the titular role, alongside a stellar cast including Eve Ridley, Matthias Schoenaerts, David Krumholtz, and notably, Jason Momoa making his debut as the fan-favorite character Lobo.
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The Christmas Day slot places Corenswet’s drama in direct competition with another highly anticipated feature: Robert Eggers’ Werwulf, a follow-up to his 2024 Nosferatu. This festive period is shaping up to be a cinematic battleground, with December 2026 also slated to host Marvel’s Avengers: Doomsday and Warner Bros. Legendary’s Dune: Part Three, both currently eyeing a December 18 release. While studios often adjust schedules to mitigate direct clashes, the current lineup promises a thrilling end to the year for moviegoers. Paramount has also strategically positioned other releases, including Potsy Ponciroli’s The Rescue on January 29, 2027, and Teyana Taylor’s directorial debut, Get Lite, on April 9, 2027, alongside an untitled horror event on July 16, 2027.
With its release date now firmly established, the marketing campaign for the John Tuggle film is expected to commence in earnest throughout the summer and fall of 2026. While perhaps not carrying the immediate blockbuster anticipation of a DCU tentpole like Supergirl, this project is crucial for Corenswet. It underscores his ambition to cultivate a diverse filmography, demonstrating a clear commitment to exploring varied roles and narratives beyond the monumental shadow of Superman. This strategic choice could solidify his standing as a versatile leading man in Hollywood.
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