Superman (Salkind films) "performance as both Clark Kent and Superman kept the characters distinct, and it was done through his body." Superman (Salkind films) Superman (Kal-El) or just Clark Kent is a fictional character portrayed by Christopher Reeve in the "Superman" film series produced by Ilya and Alexander Salkind and is an adaption of the original comic book character, Superman. The character went through many casting interviews until Christopher Reeve was chosen. Superman is portrayed as a superhero who stands for "truth, justice and the American way". The character has received positive reception and is ranked as one of the best performances in
Superman (1978 film) or Jor-El for $4 million, turning down all three roles. When it was next decided to cast an unknown actor, casting director Lynn Stalmaster first suggested Christopher Reeve, but Donner and the producers felt he was too young and skinny. Over 200 unknown actors auditioned for Superman. Olympic champion Bruce (Caitlyn) Jenner had auditioned for the title role. Patrick Wayne was cast, but dropped out when his father John Wayne was diagnosed with stomach cancer. Both Neil Diamond and Arnold Schwarzenegger lobbied hard for the role, but were ignored. James Caan, James Brolin, Lyle Waggoner, Christopher Walken, Nick Nolte, Jon