James Gunn, co-CEO of DC Studios and filmmaker, stated that the DC Universe would include both famous and lesser-known comic book characters in an effort to create a balance.
James Gunn, co-CEO of DC Studios, has announced that the DC Universe will feature a mix of famous and lesser-known characters in an effort to create balance within the franchise. This news comes after a challenging year for the DC brand, with several cancellations and changes within the Arrowverse on The CW, the scrapping of the HBO Max Batgirl movie despite completing filming, and shake-ups within the movie universe. In November, DC Studios was launched with Gunn and Peter Safran at the helm, overseeing television, movies, and animation. In recent weeks, there have been numerous updates about the future of the DC Universe franchise.
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James Gunn, co-CEO of DC Studios, has been active on social media addressing various claims about the DC Universe and confirming accurate information. In response to a question about his plans for the new DC slate, Gunn stated that fans can expect to see a mix of well-known and lesser-known characters. He plans to incorporate both iconic characters and those that mainstream audiences may not be as familiar with. Gunn has provided a positive outlook for the new DC Universe, sharing updates about the future of the franchise.
Updates on the DC Universe from James Gunn
The current lineup for the DC Universe, as established by the previous leadership, includes Shazam! Fury of the Gods in March 2023, The Flash starring Ezra Miller in June, the Blue Beetle movie in August, and Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom featuring Jason Momoa in December 2023. DC Studios has not yet announced their full slate of films as part of the vision that James Gunn and Peter Safran will present to Warner Bros. Discovery.
The only confirmed project that is under Gunn’s management is a new Superman movie that he has been penning a screenplay for over the last few months. The story will focus on a younger Clark Kent during an earlier part of his career, hence why Henry Cavill is not returning for the project or any DCU installments. However, Gunn has cryptically teased various DC characters that may or may not be getting their due in the DCU across TV and film. Those characters include Deadman, Lobo, Mister Terrific, and Jonah Hex, who are not necessarily considered A-list players. Gunn has also implied that the DCU may or may not do something with the iconic DC Comics graphic novel Kingdom Come.
It’s difficult to predict the long-term impact of the transition period for DC Studios on the DC Universe. While the changes may signify the departure of certain popular versions of DC characters, a reboot could be necessary for James Gunn and Peter Safran to create a cohesive DC Universe. It remains to be seen what direction DC Studios will take with the franchise, including the possibility of a project directed by Ben Affleck without him reprising his role as Batman and Gunn’s reimagining of Superman. As the plans for the DC Universe begin to take shape, more information will become available.
