Fans had spent 19 years begging for a return of Superman to the movie theaters, and X-Men director Bryan Singer took up the challenge. Casting a virtually unknown Brandon Routh is maybe one of Bryan’s biggest mistakes since Routh failed to impress. Superman Returns pulled so much attention when it premiered but could not live up to expectations, instantly killing Routh’s career. After his underwhelming display of heroism, Routh found it hard landing roles, even small ones, and is these days often seen juggling between TV shows.