Russell Crowe is in advanced negotiations to play Superman's father (ala Marlon Brando) in the reboot of the series being directed by Zack Snyder, The Man of Steel.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Snyder and Warner Bros. wanted someone of a similar stature to Brando for the role, and had also considered Clive Owen and Sean Penn. Henry Cavill has been cemented as Clark Kent/Superman for some time now, while Kevin Costner and Diane Lane will play his earth parents.
Christopher Nolan is producing the film, but given his hefty schedule on The Dark Knight Rises, that could mean the majority of his work on the project is probably done.
