When most people hear the name Henry Cavill, they immediately think of Superman. Cavill’s portrayal of the iconic superhero in the DC Extended Universe has solidified his status as a household name. However, limiting Cavill to his Superman role does a disservice to the actor’s versatile talent. Beyond the red cape, Cavill has delivered several noteworthy performances that showcase his range and depth as an actor. Here are six underrated Henry Cavill roles that are even more worth watching.

1. Charles Brandon in The Tudors (2007-2010)

Before donning Superman’s cape, Henry Cavill was already captivating audiences as Charles Brandon, the Duke of Suffolk, in the historical drama The Tudors. Set in the turbulent court of King Henry VIII, Cavill’s character is both a loyal friend to the king and a man driven by his desires. Cavill brings a mix of charm and moral complexity to the role, making Charles Brandon one of the most compelling characters in the series. His nuanced performance in this period drama is a must-watch for fans of historical fiction.

2. Napoleon Solo in The Man from U.N.C.L.E. (2015)

In Guy Ritchie’s stylish espionage thriller, The Man from U.N.C.L.E., Cavill steps into the role of Napoleon Solo, a suave CIA agent who teams up with a KGB operative to thwart a global nuclear threat. Cavill’s portrayal of Solo is a masterclass in charm and sophistication. His effortless blend of wit, physicality, and charisma brings this Cold War-era spy to life in a way that’s both fresh and nostalgic. Despite its lukewarm box office performance, Cavill’s turn as Solo has earned a cult following and is definitely worth a watch.

3. Geralt of Rivia in The Witcher (2019-Present)

While The Witcher is no longer as underrated as it once was, Cavill’s portrayal of Geralt of Rivia deserves recognition beyond the fantasy genre. As the stoic, monster-hunting protagonist, Cavill dives deep into a complex character, balancing Geralt’s gruff exterior with moments of vulnerability and humor. Cavill’s dedication to the role, including his involvement in the fight choreography and his deep knowledge of the source material, elevates this performance to a level that demands attention from both fans and critics alike.

4. Will Shaw in The Cold Light of Day (2012)

The Cold Light of Day may have flown under the radar, but Cavill’s performance as Will Shaw, a man thrust into a dangerous world of espionage after his family is kidnapped, is worth revisiting. This action thriller showcases Cavill’s ability to convey desperation, determination, and resourcefulness as his character navigates through a web of conspiracy. While the film itself may not have received widespread acclaim, Cavill’s gripping portrayal of a man pushed to his limits is undeniably compelling.

5. Theseus in Immortals (2011)

In Immortals, Cavill takes on the role of Theseus, a mortal chosen by Zeus to lead the fight against King Hyperion, who seeks to unleash the Titans upon the world. Cavill’s performance as the heroic Theseus is intense and commanding, highlighting his ability to carry an epic fantasy film. Despite the film’s mixed reviews, Cavill’s portrayal of Theseus stands out for its raw power and emotional depth, making it an essential watch for fans of mythological epics.

6. Captain Syverson in Sand Castle (2017)

In the war drama Sand Castle, Cavill plays Captain Syverson, a seasoned military officer stationed in Iraq during the early days of the conflict. Unlike his larger-than-life roles, Cavill’s performance here is grounded and gritty. He brings a sense of realism and gravitas to the character, reflecting the complexities and moral ambiguities of war. Cavill’s ability to embody both the physical and psychological toll of warfare makes Sand Castle a hidden gem in his filmography.

Conclusion

While Henry Cavill may always be remembered as Superman, these six roles demonstrate that his talent goes far beyond the superhero genre. Whether he’s navigating the treacherous courts of Tudor England, battling mythical creatures, or diving into the complexities of espionage and war, Cavill consistently delivers performances that are worth watching. For those looking to explore the full range of his acting abilities, these underrated roles offer a perfect starting point. Forget Superman—there’s so much more to Henry Cavill’s career than meets the eye.