The name Antony Starr does not need an introduction thanks to his super-hit series, The Boys. The actor instantly took the attention of fans with his effortlessly amazing performance as Highlander. He showcased a riveting blend of charism and chilling intensity that delves into the psyche of a superhero gone astray. Not to mention, Starr’s ability to maneuver the character’s moral intricacies added an innate depth to the show. However, only a few would know that he had major complexity issues for the role because of Henry Cavill.

What does the former Superman have to do with this show and this role?

Antony Starr felt insecure due to Henry Cavill  

Back in 2020, Antony Starr sat down with Metro UK to talk about his iconic role in The Boys. In this interview, he revealed he was not interested in the part when he got the scripts. The New Zealand actor said he was quite busy and did not look at the offer for over one week. But when he did, he thought they would never cast him because it was a superhero role and someone like Henry Cavill would get it. “Henry Cavill’s 12 feet tall, built like a 12-foot brick s*** house and he’s wonderful, handsome, and charming-I’m not going to get that,” he said. 

Cavill, who was already famous for his superhero role as Superman, suited it more, according to Starr. However, the actor took some time from his busy schedule and recorded an audition video sitting in his dressing room. Luckily for him, the creator of the show, Eric Kripke, loved his audition. “Then I thought I’d better actually read [the script],” said Starr.

After reading the whole script, the actor realized that the role and storyline were amazing and worth giving a shot. This is how he starred in one of the most fan-favorite series. While the look and physique of the Enola Holmes star made Antony Starr feel overwhelmed, it might surprise many that the British superstar was not confident in his body.

The Witcher alum once admitted feeling less than secure about his looks

Speaking with The Guardian’s G2 in 2015, Henry Cavill discussed the pressure of maintaining the looks of his on-screen alter-ego, even when he’s off camera. He confessed that there were days when he did not feel good about his physique. “I might say, ‘You’re looking good!’ Other days, like today, I’ll say, ‘Look at you, you fat f**k’,” he said.

The 40-year-old actor who has always shied from approaching women felt the need to maintain that Superman charm for his potential dates. According to Cavill, his partner would be disappointed if she did not find him alluring like viewers do on the big screen. Therefore, for the British actor, being Superman was a blessing, and also a curse.

What do you think about Starr’s take on Henry Cavill’s look? Drop your comments below!