DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn has made it clear who will be a key figure in the new DC Universe. And no, it’s not Superman.
Gunn compared the unlikely character to Robert Downey Jr.’s Iron Man in the MCU, describing him as the link that connects different stories in a natural and sometimes unexpected way.
James Gunn Calls Rick Flag Sr. DCU’s Robert Downey Jr. Equivalent
Gunn’s new approach builds the DC Universe around a more grounded, government-linked perspective, rather than launching with a massive roster of heroes. Frank Grillo’s Rick Flag Sr. connects both animated and live-action projects, giving audiences a clear thread to follow as the new universe begins.
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“Frank is kind of like our Downey,” Gunn said. “Our first story (Creature Commandos) started with him and the DCU will see him encounter various new meta humans and his response to them will have big implications in Man of Tomorrow.”
He added, “We’ve already seen that in Superman with his cooperation with the government and in Peacemaker with his exile to Salvation.“
Who Exactly Is Rick Flag Sr. In The DCU?
Rick Flag Sr. is a decorated US Army general who takes over as Director of A.R.G.U.S. after Amanda Waller steps down under pressure from the government. He is also the father of Rick Flag Jr., and his son’s death at the hands of Peacemaker in ‘The Suicide Squad‘ plays a big role in shaping his actions.
Gunn has previously described Rick Flag Sr. as a complex character. He can be manipulative, vengeful, and sometimes cold, but he is also very compelling to watch. He is not a straightforward hero or villain but a leader whose choice could have a major impact on the entire DC Universe.
Rick Flag Sr.’s Journey Across DCU Projects
The character first appeared in the animated series ‘Creature Commandos,’ where he leads a team of unusual operatives on a mission connected to Princess Ilana Rostovic and the sorceress Circe. He later moves into live action in ‘Superman,‘ where he serves as the head of A.R.G.U.S., working alongside the Secretary of Defense General Stephen Mori.
Gunn has already clarified on social media that Flag Sr. is not the Secretary of Defense, but an important government figure closely involved in dealing with metahuman affairs.
In one key moment, he even participates in Superman’s arrest, highlighting the growing tension between the government, powerful organizations, and superpowered individuals.
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Rick Flag Sr.’s Major Role in ‘Peacemaker’ Season 2
‘Peacemaker‘ Season 2 takes Rick Flag Sr.’s story much further, turning him into a major threat and a central figure in the plot. He goes after Peacemaker after being driven by the death of his son, while also pushing forward dangerous plans, including experiments with technology linked to other dimensions.
These storylines connect to ideas like “Salvation Run,” a deadly prison-like dimension meant to hold metahumans, as well as government attempts to control or use superpowered individuals as weapons.
Gunn has suggested that Flag Sr.’s choices in ‘Peacemaker‘ will have lasting effects, possibly shaping events in future DC projects like ‘Man of Tomorrow.’
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