“THAT’S MY SUPERMAN”: James Gunn Praises David Corenswet’s Charity for Two Young Fans with Down Syndrome

In a world where superheroes often only exist on the big screen, David Corenswet—the star of James Gunn’s 2025 “Superman” reboot—has proven that compassion and heroism can shine brightly in real life. On July 12, 2025, the 32-year-old actor touched hearts across the globe when he made a generous donation to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, directly supporting two young fans with Down syndrome and establishing a fund to help countless other children in need. This heartfelt gesture earned special praise from director James Gunn, who declared on X (formerly Twitter), “That’s my Superman!”—a statement affirming not just Corenswet’s on-screen role, but his heroic character off-screen as well.

A Simple Visit, An Extraordinary Act

The story began with what was supposed to be a simple meet-and-greet at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia—Corenswet’s hometown—just a day after “Superman” premiered to an impressive $56.5 million opening. Initially, it was just a small event where Corenswet would visit young patients, sign autographs, and take photos. But for siblings Emma (10) and Liam (8)—two special Superman fans battling complex heart conditions linked to Down syndrome—it became a day they would never forget.

Emma and Liam, dressed in their familiar Superman capes, finally got to meet their real-life hero. Corenswet didn’t just spend hours talking, sharing behind-the-scenes stories, and taking photos—he also playfully reenacted iconic Superman scenes with the kids. The siblings’ spirit and resilience clearly touched the actor. Quietly, Corenswet worked with the hospital’s foundation to make a six-figure donation, covering Emma and Liam’s medical expenses and establishing a fund to help other children with congenital diseases and developmental disorders.

A hospital spokesperson called it “a game-changer,” noting that the donation would not only allow Emma and Liam to continue their treatments but also give many other children access to advanced therapies and special support programs.

James Gunn: “That’s My Superman!”

Upon learning about Corenswet’s charitable act, director James Gunn—who handpicked him for the Superman role after a rigorous audition process—couldn’t hide his pride. On X, Gunn wrote: “That’s my Superman!” The short but meaningful message was a clear acknowledgment that Corenswet had become a hero both on and off the screen.

Within hours, the story went viral on social media. Thousands of comments and the hashtag #SuperheroCorenswet flooded platforms, with fans saying they felt the true spirit of Superman through Corenswet’s real-life actions. In a follow-up post, Gunn wrote: “David’s kindness reflects the heart of our Superman—a hero who fights for those who need it most.” This is precisely the spirit Gunn wanted to infuse into the new film, which draws inspiration from Grant Morrison’s “All-Star Superman,” portraying the Man of Steel as a symbol of gentleness, optimism, and faith in goodness.

Family Roots and Core Values

Corenswet’s appeal goes beyond his on-screen presence; he’s also deeply rooted in strong family values and a tradition of compassion. Born to a Jewish family in Philadelphia, his father was a stage actor turned lawyer and his mother a teacher. According to Rabbi Daniel Cohn (Temple Sinai, New Orleans), Corenswet was raised to value community responsibility, empathy, and sharing from a young age.

In 2023, he married Julia Warner in a ceremony blending both Catholic and Jewish traditions. The couple later moved back to Pennsylvania to raise their first daughter, born in 2024. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, co-star Nicholas Hoult recalled seeing Corenswet pushing his daughter’s stroller between takes, despite the grueling filming schedule. Corenswet himself credited his wife for shouldering much of the responsibility, but said he always tried to be a hands-on dad whenever he could—“Superman energy is about helping wherever you can.”

Lasting Impact and a Legacy of Kindness

For Emma and Liam’s family, Corenswet is truly a “real-life hero.” Thanks to his donation, the siblings can continue their treatments, and the new charity fund will support research into Down syndrome-related conditions, offering hope to many other families.

What’s remarkable is how Corenswet’s actions so closely align with the spirit of the 2025 “Superman” film: highlighting kindness and selflessness in a world often marked by harshness. While the movie itself has received mixed reviews—The Guardian criticized its “square-jawed soullessness,” while IGN praised Corenswet’s “natural, benevolent” performance—his off-screen actions have won universal praise.

Superman Is Real

As “Superman” continues to dominate the box office, projected to earn $154–175 million in its opening weekend, David Corenswet’s golden heart has redefined what it means to wear the red cape. He’s not just a symbol on the big screen, but an inspiration for millions to believe that, in any era, kindness and compassion can truly soar.

With the support of James Gunn and the community, David Corenswet has shown that being Superman is more than just a role—it’s a way of life, a mission to spread hope and love to those who need it most.