Henry Cavill, known to millions as the Man of Steel, has shared an unexpected and deeply personal revelation about his childhood struggles. The actor, now recognized for his chiseled physique and commanding presence as Superman, once faced an entirely different set of challenges growing up.

In a candid interview with Details for its June/July issue, Cavill opened up about the nickname that once haunted him—“Fat Cavill.” As the 30-year-old British actor prepares to soar to stardom with his role in Man of Steel (set to release June 14), he reflected on his past, revealing that life wasn’t always filled with superhero moments.

“I Was Fat Cavill”

Raised on the island of Jersey in the English Channel, Cavill’s childhood was marked by body image issues that set him apart from his peers. He recalls a time when his appearance became a target of ridicule. “I was fat,” Cavill admits, in a matter-of-fact manner that highlights how he has come to terms with his past. During his time at boarding school, the actor explains, he “became an easy target” for bullies.

The nickname “Fat Cavill” stuck with him during his formative years. His size, coupled with the challenges of navigating the social dynamics of a boarding school, made him feel out of place. While Cavill now fills out a Superman costume with superhero-level confidence, it’s hard to imagine that the man beneath the cape once struggled with self-esteem.

The Journey to Superman

Before landing the role of Superman, Cavill was no stranger to the acting world. He had earned praise for his role as Charles Brandon, Duke of Suffolk, on Showtime’s hit series The Tudors, but it was the road to Man of Steel that truly transformed him—both physically and mentally.

Cavill’s transformation into Superman was a process that required incredible discipline and focus. Beyond the rigorous workouts and strict diet, it involved confronting the emotional scars from his youth. “It wasn’t easy,” he admits. But the actor took those memories of being the overweight kid and used them as fuel to build his body into the embodiment of strength.

From “Fat Cavill” to Superman

Despite the taunts and the struggles, Cavill’s journey shows that early challenges don’t define a person’s future. He stands as a prime example of resilience and determination, embracing both his past and present. Now, instead of letting “Fat Cavill” hold him back, he proudly tells the world his story, using it to inspire others.

As Cavill takes his place among Hollywood’s elite, it’s clear that the road to becoming Superman was paved with far more than just workouts and rehearsals. It was about overcoming personal challenges, embracing self-growth, and transforming insecurities into strengths.

With Man of Steel just around the corner, audiences will see Henry Cavill donning the famous Superman cape, but it’s his journey from “Fat Cavill” to the man of iron that truly defines him.