Henry Cavill: 5 Facts on the New 'Superman' [VIDEOS]

The Man of Steel has a new face: that of British actor Henry Cavill, best known for his work on Showtime's "The Tudors."

Although he's not a household name in the United States, Cavill will star in Zack Snyder's update of the Superman film franchise, slated to hit theaters in December 2012.

So who is the man who will be Superman? Surge Desk finds out.

1. He's lost a lot of superhero roles
Back in 2003, director McG tried to develop a Superman movie with Cavill in the lead role. That film never materialized, and director Bryan Singer wound up casting Brandon Routh in "Superman Returns." Also in 2003, Cavill was rumored to be in the running for the Batman role in Christopher Nolan's "Batman" series, but the part went to Christian Bale; and while we realize James Bond isn't a superhero per se, Cavill reportedly lost out on the role that Daniel Craig wound up playing. More recently Cavill was said to be a contender for the role of Hal Jordan in Martin Campbell's remake of "Green Lantern," but Ryan Reynolds got the part.

2. He found fame in a costume drama
As Charles Brandon on Showtime's steamy series "The Tudors," Cavill won acclaim for his portrayal of a playboy duke who served as Henry VIII's trusted adviser.

Watch Cavill discussing "The Tudors":

3. He did not, however, find fame in "Twilight"
Apparently "Twilight" author Stephenie Meyer once referred to Cavill as "the perfect Edward" while she was in talks to create a film adaptation of her popular books. Cavill has repeatedly said that he never heard from Meyer directly and never auditioned for the role, which went to Robert Pattinson.

Here's Cavill addressing the "Twilight" rumors:

4. He started acting at an early age
The 27-year-old Cavill began as a stage actor, winning lead roles at his boarding school in Buckingham, England. His theatrical endeavors ranged from Shakespeare to musicals.

5. He sells fragrance on the side
Watch Cavill smoldering in a recent television ad for Dunhill fragrances.

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