The announcement of David Corenswet as the upcoming Superman for DC Comics brought joy to Jewish fans of both movies and comic books, as he becomes the first Jewish actor to portray the iconic hero in a major film.
However, one Jewish community in New Orleans has an especially strong connection to this news. Rabbi Daniel Sherman of Temple Sinai, a historic synagogue in the city, shared the excitement, saying, “The Corenswet family is well known and cherished here.”
He also mentioned that local groups were considering organizing screenings to celebrate David’s portrayal of Superman, with pride stemming not only from his Jewish heritage but also his familial ties to the area.
Celebrating a historic moment with David Corenswet as the first Jewish Superman (@davidcorenswet/Instagram)
Temple Sinai, established in 1870 as Louisiana’s oldest Reform synagogue, has long been connected to the Corenswet family. While David was raised in Philadelphia, many relatives, including his uncle Jay, a former president of the congregation, remain active members.
Rabbi Emeritus Edward Cohn expressed his delight, remarking, “While it’s not a life-changing event, it’s heartening to know we’ll have a Jewish Superman.”
David sought Rabbi Cohn’s involvement in his wedding ceremony, which took place at New Orleans’ historic Immaculate Conception Church in March. This unique event blended Jewish and Catholic traditions, with Rabbi Cohn co-officiating alongside a priest.
The church, built in the 1850s, had not previously hosted a ceremony featuring a chuppah in recent decades. Julie Vanderbrook, the church’s wedding coordinator, praised the couple’s efforts to harmonize both faiths, noting their dedication enriched the celebration.
Corenswet’s personal life is private, with many unaware of his marriage or Jewish heritage. According to Rabbi Cohn, Jewish identity remains an integral part of his life despite infrequent synagogue visits.
Living in Philadelphia with his wife, also an actor, the couple plans to join a congregation while frequently traveling for work in Los Angeles and other locations.
David Corenswet brings Jewish representation to the iconic role of Superman (@davidcorenswet/Instagram)
David previously participated in a virtual event in 2020 hosted by Jewish Pride New Orleans, a group affiliated with the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans. Marc Behar, the founder, described David as generous with his time, calling him “a thoughtful and kind individual.”
Rabbi Cohn also reflected on David’s family legacy, recalling his grandfather Sam Corenswet Jr., a “well-educated and worldly Southern gentleman.”
Sam Jr., like his father, contributed to the synagogue and the New Orleans Mid-Winter Sports Association, which organizes the Sugar Bowl, a renowned college football event.
Over decades as president, Sam Jr. crossed paths with legendary coaches and Heisman winners, creating a lasting impact in sports circles. David’s father, John Corenswet, who passed away in 2019, transitioned from acting to law.
As a child, David developed an interest in performing through family viewings of classic films.When did Beyoncé, Jay-Z start dating? A relationship timeline, from courtship to marriage
He began acting at nine in a local production of Arthur Miller’s All My Sons and later honed his craft at Juilliard, carrying a subway token gifted by his father as a good-luck charm during auditions.
While David is not yet widely recognized, his roles in Ryan Murphy’s Netflix series The Politician and Hollywood have earned him attention.
His upcoming role as Superman in Superman: Legacy, set for release in 2025 and featuring Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, will likely improve his status .
Though it remains to be seen if his Jewish background will influence his portrayal of the character, the rabbi who officiated at his wedding expressed confidence in David’s ability to make the role his own. “For someone in the spotlight, he carries himself with humility and humor,” said Rabbi Cohn, adding that these traits would serve him well in his portrayal of the superhero.
