As one of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s former stars transitions to James Gunn‘s ambitious DC Universe reboot, Frank Grillo has opened up about his evolving experience in superhero franchises.
Grillo, known for portraying Brock Rumlow/Crossbones in the MCU, is set to take on the role of Rick Flag Sr. in DC’s upcoming animated series ‘Creature Commandos’. Moreover, the show will be DC’s first project after the reboot and will premiere on Max on December 5, 2024.
Frank Grillo Says He Felt Like A Minor Cog In The MCU
While James Gunn’s revamped DC Universe will fully kick off with ‘Superman’ in 2025, ‘Creature Commandos‘ serves as an exciting precursor. In an interview with Screen Rant, Frank Grillo expressed his excitement about being deeply involved in the franchise from its beginning stages.
Unlike his time in the MCU, where his character often served as a “minor cog” in a larger machine, Grillo emphasized that his new role allows him to engage meaningfully with the storyline. Reflecting on his experience, Grillo explained what sets his DCU journey apart.
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“It’s just being really involved in such a great way from the beginning. So, I have a chance to be in the embryotic stages of this in a big capacity, and not just used as a plot device and then shunned away,” he shared. “In this thing, you can’t do it without Rick Flag Sr. The way James has set it up, and that is really, to me, important, and I’m grateful for it. I take it very seriously,” he added.
Grillo’s words hint at the depth and complexity his character brings to the table. Rick Flag Sr. is a foundational figure in the DCU’s emerging tapestry, with a storyline integral to the overarching narrative. Unlike with the MCU’s Crossbones, Grillo feels empowered to fully explore his character’s potential in the DC Universe.
He also expressed gratitude toward James Gunn and Peter Safran for their collaborative approach. “Whatever you guys got planned, I’m game,” he stated.
Frank Grillo Says Rick Flag Sr. Will Be The DCU’s Nick Fury
Frank Grillo also confirmed that Rick Flag Sr. is set to have a long-term presence in the DCU, akin to Samuel L. Jackson’s Nick Fury in the MCU. The character is already confirmed for appearances in ‘Creature Commandos’, ‘Superman’, and ‘Peacemaker’ Season 2.
Moreover, each iteration will present different aspects of his motivations and personality. “Based on how things end in Peacemaker, in Superman, and in Creature Commandos, Rick Flag will be around for a while,” Grillo told Inverse. “I kind of liken him to the Sam Jackson character in the Marvel world.”
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The comparison sets high expectations, as Nick Fury has appeared in ten Marvel films and three TV shows. Grillo expressed confidence that Rick Flag Sr. would follow a similarly pivotal trajectory. However, he also noted the character’s appearances wouldn’t always align chronologically.
“You’ll see an older or younger Rick Flag Sr. appearing across the DCU timeline,” Grillo teased. “I could be totally wrong, but my gut tells me he’ll weave through a lot of different things,” he added.
