‘Superman’ Star David Corenswet Ditches the Cape for a Suit at the VMAs

Avatar photoHrvoje Milakovic
David Corenswet
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While many stars use the VMAs red carpet as a chance to go all out with sequins, feathers, and bold cutouts, David Corenswet opted for a more understated look this year, making his appearance stand out.

The 2026 MTV Video Music Awards took place on Sunday, September 27, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. The event featured a lineup of music heavyweights, but also included a few notable movie stars, with Corenswet being one of the few purely cinematic faces among a roster largely filled with musicians.

A particular moment that garnered attention was captured in a video shared by The Hollywood Reporter on X, which quickly went viral. In the clip, Corenswet stands on the carpet’s circular platform wearing a light gray double-breasted suit, hands clasped in front of him, leaning forward into a bow for the cameras.

His look was notably calm amid a night filled with extravagant fashion choices. This year’s VMAs, lacking pre-show performances for the first time since 2009, turned the arrivals line into the main attraction, making Corenswet’s tailored suit and sunglasses appear almost defiantly serene.

Corenswet’s appearance was not solely about fashion; he walked the carpet alongside his co-star Isabel May, and the two presented together during the show. They joined a presenter lineup that included Alex Warren, Charli XCX, Teyana Taylor, Troye Sivan, Tyla, Jeff Probst, and Rachel Dratch.

The reason for their joint appearance is the upcoming film ‘Mr. Irrelevant,’ which is set to hit theaters on Christmas. Just Jared noted that this marks an early start to their press tour. According to a fan account, the duo presented the Best Collaboration award to Madonna and Sabrina Carpenter.

The film tells the true story of John Tuggle, the last player selected in the final round of the 1983 NFL draft by the New York Giants. Corenswet portrays Tuggle, with Michael Shannon playing his first-year head coach, Bill Parcells, and May as Tuggle’s newfound love interest.

Tuggle had a brief but impactful career, playing only one season before passing away from cancer at age 25 in 1986. Directed by Jonathan Levine and written by Nick Santora, the film also features David Krumholtz in a supporting role. The first trailer was released by Paramount and Skydance Sports on September 13, with the film scheduled to premiere on December 25.

For Corenswet, this marks a significant shift in his career. Known for his role in James Gunn’s ‘Superman,’ he is now stepping into the shoes of an underdog.

Interestingly, the film reunites Corenswet with Shannon, who portrayed General Zod opposite Henry Cavill in ‘Man of Steel.’ May has also made her mark, appearing in the Paramount+ series ‘1883’ and in ‘Scream 7.’

The release date is strategically bold, as it coincides with a highly competitive box office period featuring ‘Avengers: Doomsday,’ ‘Dune: Part Three,’ and a new ‘Jumanji’ film. This early publicity push seems wise, and the VMAs provided a massive platform.

The trailer has received positive feedback, with reports of high scores from test screenings, although such numbers should be approached with caution until the film is fully released. Nevertheless, a heartfelt sports drama could serve as a refreshing alternative to the major franchise films.

Corenswet’s moment at the VMAs may have been small, but it aligned perfectly with the promotional strategy. His calm, well-tailored appearance amidst the evening’s chaos drew attention to a film that will undoubtedly need it.

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