A single photo was all it took to send DC fans spiraling into speculation. Longtime ‘The Flash’ fans jumped to a well-worn conclusion when photos of Grant Gustin with new dyed blond hair started to spread online: Barry Allen could be racing back into action. As the Arrowverse officially came to an end, hope soon became rumors, and rumors soon found their way to DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn.
Gunn responded directly to the chatter, declaring that audiences would “riot” if Gustin wasn’t cast as the DCU’s Flash. Gunn answered in his usual dry, dismissive, and secretive way. However, he might have also confirmed that the viral photos and online outrage are not driving the casting choices.
Grant Gustin’s Hair Sparked Hope, But The DCU Is Moving At Its Own Speed
The speculation started in good faith. Gustin, who has spent nine seasons as the face of Barry Allen on ‘The Flash‘, was seen in recent photographs with significantly blond hair, a look that instantly reminded fans of the traditional comic-book versions of the Scarlet Speedster. Social media linked the dots within hours, speculating that Gustin was about to reprise his iconic role in a rebooted DC Universe. The enthusiasm was entirely baseless. Gustin is still one of the most popular DC television protagonists.
Related: Why James Gunn’s View Of ‘The Flash’ Feels Like A Course Correction For DC
Additionally, his acting was the driving force behind the Arrowverse for almost ten years. But the truth is far less cinematic. Gustin has not addressed the rumors, and his hair change is probably related to another project, or just his personal taste. Recently, the actor has finished shooting ‘Rooster’, a new movie directed by Mills McQueen, so it is evident that his schedule is not under a DC comeback. Still, hope persists. For a lot of fans, Gustin is not just the Flash; he is the Flash.
James Gunn’s Response Signals Patience, Not Promises
When Gunn finally weighed in, his words were carefully chosen. He joked about online threats of “riots,” noted his appreciation for Gustin, and firmly disconnected the actor from any confirmed DCU plans. Notably, Gunn did not mock a comeback. However, he did not criticize Gustin’s legacy either. That distinction matters. The Gods and Monsters chapter of the DCU under Gunn and Peter Safran has been conscious of pacing and revelation.
In case you missed it: Before James Gunn’s DCU, ‘Green Lantern’ Had A Very Different Future At HBO
Up to this point, no official news has been given about the future of Barry Allen or casting choices. Gunn’s reaction supports the notion that the Flash is not going to be brought back in a rush just to satisfy nostalgia. Interestingly, ‘The Flash‘ is not on the list, but one of his most notorious villains is taking the stage. Gorilla Grodd is reportedly set to headline season one of an upcoming Jimmy Olsen spinoff series, tying Flash lore into the DCU without committing to a new speedster just yet.
This is both frustrating and interesting to fans. Gustin’s Flash is surviving on streaming, reruns, and a fanbase that is incredibly loyal. It is unclear whether that version ever enters the DCU. What Gunn’s response ultimately makes clear is this: the next Flash will arrive on DC Studios’ timeline, not Twitter’s. And until then, the Speed Force belongs to speculation.
