Fans already have a favourite for who they want to replace Henry Cavill as Superman

Henry Cavill might have only just hung up his Superman cape, but DC fans already have an idea about who could be replacing him.

Almost a decade after he first appeared as Clark Kent, and after previously announcing he would be returning to play Superman, the actor took to Instagram to share the news that he wouldn't be reprising his role after all.

Cavill explained that DC Studios co-chairs James Gunn and Peter Safran had delivered the news after making their decision, writing: “I will, after all, not be returning as Superman.

"After being told by the studio to announce my return back in October, prior to their hire, this news isn’t the easiest, but that’s life," Cavill continued. "The changing of the guard is something that happens. I respect that. James and Peter have a universe to build. I wish them and all involved with the new universe the best of luck, and the happiest of fortunes...

“My turn to wear the cape has passed, but what Superman stands for never will. It’s been a fun ride with you all, onwards and upwards.”

While many fans have been sharing their heartbreak over the news and expressing their support for Cavill, others have already started looking ahead to the potential new face of Superman.

Fans will no doubt have all sorts of ideas about who could take over the role, but one name keeps cropping up again and again.

@henrycavill/Instagram

The suggested actor comes from across the pond to Cavill, and recently took on the epic role of a musician who didn't have powers, but was definitely considered to be a hero by many.

Of course, it's none other than Austin Butler, who was widely praised recently for his performance as Elvis Presley.

Butler is next set to appear in the sequel to the blockbuster movie Dune, and as he remains in the spotlight many are convinced he's a clear winner to replace Cavill.

@gothamnowyjork/Twitter

"So. Austin Butler is going to be the next Superman, isn't he?," wrote film critic William Bibbiani, while another fan wrote: "My two cents on who the new Superman will be: Austin Butler. He's has the talent, the look and the frame. Now he just needs to bulk up a bit."

It's not yet been revealed who will replace Cavill as the iconic superhero, but the new film is being written by Gunn and is rumoured to focus on Superman's younger years, when he presented himself as Daily Planet reporter Clark Kent.