Although Mr. Terrific has appeared on TV before, most notably in The Flash on CW, James Gunn’s Superman finally marks the character’s long-awaited cinematic debut. As the DC Universe begins a new chapter, Michael Holt is being introduced to mainstream movie audiences, bringing intelligence, tech, and presence, thanks to actor Edi Gathegi.
We visited the Superman set in Cleveland and had the opportunity to speak with Gathegi, along with other journalists, about stepping into the suit, embracing the technology, and finding their place in the DC Universe.
Gathegi has quietly built one of the most eclectic and impactful careers in Hollywood. With standout roles in House, Twilight, StartUp, and For All Mankind, he’s proven his ability to bring depth to characters others might overlook. Comic book fans may remember him as Darwin in X-Men: First Class and how unfairly they treated him (I’m still upset about that, but that’s a different conversation). However, in Superman, Gathegi takes center stage in a role built to last, playing one of the most intelligent characters in the DC Universe.
A New Era Begins with Superman
Superman is the first feature under the newly restructured DC Studios. Directed by James Gunn and written from his original screenplay, the film offers a heartfelt and action-packed reintroduction to the Man of Steel, grounded in hope, humor, and humanity.
David Corenswet stars as Superman/Clark Kent, with Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. The ensemble also features Edi Gathegi as Mr. Terrific, along with Anthony Carrigan, Nathan Fillion, Isabela Merced, Skyler Gisondo, Sara Sampaio, María Gabriela de Faria, Wendell Pierce, Alan Tudyk, Pruitt Taylor Vince, and Neva Howell.
Produced by Gunn and Peter Safran, the film’s creative team includes cinematographer Henry Braham, production designer Beth Mickle, costume designer Judianna Makovsky, and composers John Murphy and David Fleming. With this film, Gunn is laying the foundation for a new DC Universe, one that prioritizes strong character work and meaningful storytelling. And Mr. Terrific’s inclusion in the lineup is no accident.
Reimagining Mr. Terrific for a New Generation
For Gathegi, stepping into the role involved not just understanding the character but also reinterpreting how he looks and moves. One of the most recognizable features of Mr. Terrific in the comics is his face mask, which initially gave Gathegi pause.
“The face mask was something I struggled with the first time I saw it in the comics,” he said. “It resembled blackface to me, and I was like, what is that? But once I dove into the lore, I realized it’s functional technology. It protects his entire face. It’s not just for aesthetics — and now, it’s one of the coolest parts of the costume.”
In this version, the mask is made from nanotech that forms across his face and dissolves on command. “It’s incredibly comfortable,” he added. “Molded to my face. Pliable. Not what people expect when they see it.”
That evolution in understanding the character reflects the larger creative process behind this take on Mr. Terrific. “The first time I put the whole costume on during the screen test, I felt like a superhero,” Gathegi said. “It was surreal.”
Brains, Tech, and T-Rigs
Mr. Terrific is known for his brilliant mind and signature T-Spheres, both of which are prominently featured in Superman. Gathegi confirmed that the film will feature a mix of practical and digital effects to bring the spheres to life and teased the debut of a brand-new piece of gear.
“There’s something called the T-Rig,” he said. “It’s like a futuristic hover vehicle. Think Professor X’s chair, but way cooler and more flexible. It moves with him. It’s slick and honestly pretty toyetic. I think kids are going to love it.”
While the tech is impressive, it’s the relationships that may resonate most with fans. Mr. Terrific’s interactions with Clark Kent offer some of the movie’s most unexpected dynamics.
“Superman thinks Mr. Terrific is his best friend,” Gathegi joked. “Mr. Terrific thinks he’s kind of a herb. They’re both heroes, but they don’t operate the same. Superman’s a Boy Scout. Mr. Terrific is more complex; he’s carrying more weight.”
Intelligence vs. Villainy
With Nicholas Hoult stepping into the role of Lex Luthor, Superman features more than one brilliant mind. So it’s only natural to wonder: will the two genius-level characters face off?
“There’s a battle of the brains,” Gathegi teased. “If you want to know who comes out on top, you’ll have to see the movie.”
Preparing for the Role, Physically and Mentally
To fully embody the role, Gathegi dedicated himself to a superhero regimen, putting on 20 pounds of muscle. The transformation wasn’t easy, especially with his love for cheat meals.
“I went back and forth on it. Do I want to do the full workout plan or just wing it?” he said. “But this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I know guys at the gym who aren’t actors, but their dream is to be a superhero. I get to live that dream, so I pushed myself.” His training was straightforward but intense. “My trainer always said, ‘A good trainer is a boring trainer.’ It was all about hitting heavy weights and eating right, with no cardio since I’m naturally lean. Eight months later, I’m just trying to stay ready in case there’s a next chapter.”
From Audition Tape to Terrific
Gathegi first auditioned for the role with a last-minute tape just before heading off on vacation with his family. He didn’t think much of it… until his phone rang.
“James Gunn called me on Zoom and said, ‘You’re not testing against anyone, it’s just you.’ That’s when I thought, okay, this might really be happening.” After returning from Europe early, Gathegi screen-tested in Los Angeles. He got the call a few days later. “They asked, ‘Do you want to play Mr. Terrific?’ and I joked, ‘Can I have some time to think about it?’ They looked at me like I was nuts,” he laughed. “I was just playing, but it was an unforgettable moment.”
What’s Next for Mr. Terrific?
Although his role in Superman is seen as supporting, Gathegi has a clear-eyed view of its potential.
“Of course I want it to grow,” he said. “But even if this is it, I’m proud to be part of what James is building. I think they’re making a statement by putting Mr. Terrific in this movie. And if that turns into something bigger, I’ll be ready.” With a sharp mind, sleek tech, and a scene-stealing performance, Mr. Terrific is poised to become a breakout favorite in the new DCU and Edi Gathegi is more than ready to lead the way. Stay tuned for more exclusive interview coverage from our Superman set visit, and don’t miss Superman when it hits theaters on July 11.