James Gunn Reveals the Real Reason Lex Luthor Can't Crack Superman's Secret Identity

It wouldn't be a week in superhero movie land without fans losing sleep over some wild theory, and, as usual, James Gunn jumped in to drop a reality check. This time, it's about Lex Luthor and whether or not he already knows Superman is just Clark Kent in a bad tie.

Lex Luthor: The World's Smartest Guy Still Doesn't Get It

Ever since Gunn's Superman launched the new DC Universe last year, everyone with a Threads account wants to play detective. One particularly devoted fan argued that, with Nicholas Hoult's version of Lex being such a genius, there’s no way he hasn't figured out that Clark Kent (played by David Corenswet) is actually Superman. Their case? Lex is too smart to miss it, but also too strategic to blab about it unless it helps him somehow.

The debate got enough traction that someone tagged Gunn directly, pretty much demanding an official ruling. If you've followed Gunn’s social media habits, you know he’s not shy about debunking or confirming fan theories. And sure enough, he responded with a breakdown that’s both blunt and, honestly, kind of funny.

Lex doesn't know who he is but I don't know how he would. A) Lex thinks Superman is a disconnected alien who wants to take over the world, so I'm not sure why he'd assume he has a 'secret identity.' B) Hypno Glasses are real. Clark looks like another person. C) Being a genius in some ways (in Lex's case, genetics, electrochemistry, nanotechnology, nuclear & quantum physics, to name a few) doesn't mean you are a genius in all fields. Like many scientists (& artists!) he can miss basic things.

Let’s Break That Down

• Lex’s Blind Spot: According to Gunn, Lex is convinced Superman is just a powerful alien wannabe dictator. He doesn't go around assuming cosmic beings have day jobs, so the idea of a secret identity isn't even on his radar.
• Hypno Glasses Are Real (Apparently): For any comic book nerds rolling their eyes right now — yes, Gunn is pulling out the 'hypno glasses' explanation. These aren’t just thick black frames; in this universe, they’re actually advanced tech that makes people forget Clark Kent and Superman look identical. Ridiculous? A little. But, hey, DC comics have never been afraid of weird science.
• Genius ≠ Omniscience: Lex is a brainiac in genetics, physics, nanotechnology, and half a dozen other fields, but that doesn't mean he can solve every puzzle. Gunn points out that being world-class in some subjects doesn’t stop you from whiffing on the basics — a not so subtle nod to a pretty common human phenomenon where smart people overestimate their range of expertise.

If you ask me, Gunn's explanation does a better job patching up this classic Superman loophole than most. Lex isn't working with all the facts, and when you add super-science glasses to the mix, it’s at least plausible Lex remains in the dark. For now.

Lex and Superman: Round Two Coming Up

Of course, keeping Clark’s secret safe doesn’t mean the game’s over. Gunn is already deep into production on his next Superman flick, Man of Tomorrow. This time, Superman and Lex will actually have to team up as they take on Brainiac, an alien android who isn’t exactly known for his warm personality (Lars Eidinger is stepping into that metallic role). Is there a chance Lex starts piecing things together as he works elbow-to-elbow with the guy? You never know.

Circle July 9, 2027, on your calendar for Man of Tomorrow. But that’s not the only thing DC has cooking. Before Superman’s next solo flight, we’re getting Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow on June 26, 2026, and it’s pretty likely Supes will pop in for a cameo.

More Superman to Come

If that’s not enough, there’s also a new project in the pipeline starring Jimmy Olsen — Superman's perpetually imperiled pal. Skyler Gisondo is playing Jimmy, and one fan wanted to know if this was going to be an animated show. Gunn replied simply: 'It’s not.'

So, if you’re desperate for more Kryptonian content, rest easy. With all the sequels, spin-offs, and side stories planned, you’ll have plenty of chances to see Clark Kent squint awkwardly behind those tech-powered specs — while Lex Luthor remains none the wiser. For now, at least.