James Gunn‘s ‘Man of Tomorrow’ is keeping several of its biggest secrets under wraps. Still, Matthew Lillard has offered an intriguing clue about his mysterious role in the upcoming DCU sequel. The actor confirmed fans probably shouldn’t expect to find his character in DC Comics.
James Gunn Is Creating More Original Characters For The DCU
During an interview with The Direct while promoting Prime Video’s ‘Carrie’, Lillard was asked whether his character would be familiar to comic book readers or created specifically for the movie. His response was brief but revealing. “It’s a very James Gunn moment,” Lillard explained. “So, I wouldn’t worry too much about finding him in the comics.”
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The comment suggests that Gunn may have developed an original character specifically for the sequel, potentially giving Lillard an important role in the expanding DC Universe. Although some fans might be disappointed that Lillard isn’t necessarily playing an established DC hero, the decision wouldn’t be unusual for Gunn.
The filmmaker has repeatedly introduced original characters alongside familiar comic book figures, often giving them significant roles in his larger stories. ‘Peacemaker’ introduced Leota Adebayo, Amanda Waller’s daughter, who became an important part of the series’ emotional core.
Meanwhile, ‘Superman’ featured Mister Handsome, a bizarre creature whose relationship with Lex Luthor revealed a different side of the villain. These examples demonstrate Gunn’s willingness to build new characters rather than relying entirely on established comic book lore. Lillard’s mystery role could follow a similar path, particularly if the character becomes connected to Superman’s world in Metropolis.
Could Lillard’s Character Be Connected To The Daily Planet?
‘Man of Tomorrow’ scheduled to arrive in theaters on July 9, 2027, will bring David Corenswet’s Superman and Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor together against the formidable Brainiac. With the stakes expanding beyond the first film, there is plenty of room for new characters to influence the story.
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Rumors have suggested that Lillard’s character could have connections to members of the Daily Planet team, although that information remains unconfirmed. His comments also suggest that he is playing a major established hero less convincingly, but they don’t completely rule out a familiar character being adapted unexpectedly.
Whatever the truth, Lillard’s casting is an exciting prospect. Gunn has a history of making unconventional characters memorable, and an original role could give the actor plenty of room to leave his mark on the DCU. For now, fans will have to wait to know exactly who Lillard is playing.
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