If fans were hungry for updates about the future of the DC Universe, James Gunn just served a feast. While on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Gunn opened up in a refreshingly honest and enthusiastic way about the evolving state of DC Studios.
Following the launch of his ‘Superman’ reboot, Gunn is more than aware that the eyes of the comic book movie world are locked on what comes next. And while some projects are surging ahead, others are facing more complicated journeys. In typical Gunn fashion, there were no empty promises.
“We’re Headed In The Right Direction”: James Gunn On Upcoming DCU Projects
One of the biggest questions surrounding DC Studios is the fate of Batman. Not just ‘The Batman’ series from Matt Reeves starring Robert Pattinson (which remains part of the Elseworlds continuity), but the long-awaited ‘Brave and the Bold’, the DCU’s main Batman reboot. Gunn revealed that ‘The Batman 2‘ script has reached him, and while it’s not final, his reaction was hopeful. “I like it,” he said.
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“For sure, we’re headed in the right direction.” The sequel is still on track for its October 2027 release date. However, Gunn confirmed that ‘Brave and the Bold’ is still being written and is not as far along. This likely means we won’t see both Batmen in the same calendar year. “Probably not,” he said frankly. Casting for DCU’s Batman hasn’t started yet. However, when asked about fan-favorite Alan Ritchson, Gunn admitted, “I am a big Alan Ritchson fan. Both as an actor and as a guy.”
Still, he added, “Let’s wait and see what happens.” The good news didn’t stop there. Gunn’s update on ‘Peacemaker‘ Season 2 should excite fans who’ve been eagerly waiting since Season 1’s explosive finale. “It’s a direct follow-up to Superman,” Gunn confirmed. That means viewers can expect several Superman characters. This includes Rick Flag Sr., Hawkgirl, Guy Gardner, and Maxwell Lord returning in Peacemaker. And, in Gunn’s words, it’s going to be “very R-rated.”
On the Wonder Woman front, fans finally got the confirmation they’ve been craving. “Yes,” Gunn said when asked if there’s a script and a direction. When pressed about how distinct this version will be from Gal Gadot‘s portrayal, Gunn answered without hesitation: “Very. Yes. I’m excited about Wonder Woman right now.” He didn’t elaborate on casting or timeline. However, his confidence suggests that the Amazon warrior’s return is one of the studio’s top priorities.
James Gunn’s Honest Take On Jason Momoa’s Lobo, ‘Lanterns’ And ‘Clayface’
James Gunn didn’t shy away from giving honest, sometimes sobering updates on other projects. On ‘Lanterns‘, the HBO Max series centered on Green Lanterns Hal Jordan and John Stewart, Gunn simply said, “That’s great.” While not exactly an info dump, it does confirm the show is alive and progressing. Even more exciting was his description of the upcoming Clayface movie, calling it a “total horror movie.”
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Meanwhile, ‘The Authority’ seems to have hit a snag. Gunn sighed when the project was brought up. “Yeah, but that’s been a rough road.” He revealed that the original writer has been reassigned to another secret DCU project that’s “killing it.” The ‘Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow’ movie, led by Milly Alcock, was also addressed. Though specific updates were scarce, Gunn was enthusiastic.
And when Jason Momoa’s long-rumored Lobo was mentioned, Gunn could barely contain his grin: “Lobo is so frickin’ awesome. Jason Momoa is so… Oh my God!” It wasn’t a confirmation, but it certainly wasn’t a denial either. The possibility remains strong. Some projects, like ‘Swamp Thing’, remain in the shadows.
Another project that nearly got off the ground was Sgt. Rock, at one point, was close to happening with Daniel Craig. Gunn expressed renewed excitement for it, “Hugely,” he emphasized. However, he also confirmed that director Luca Guadagnino is no longer involved.
