- J.M. DeMatteis, a well-known comic book writer, shows support for James Gunn’s leadership in the new DCU.
- The new DCU will include projects like Superman: Legacy, The Authority, The Brave and the Bold, and Swamp Thing.
- The rebooted franchise will not feature the same Justice League actors from the previous Snyderverse, causing mixed reactions from fans.
Acclaimed comic book writer J. M. DeMatteis has joined numerous creative professionals in expressing enthusiasm over James Gunn’s leadership in the upcoming DCU, recognizing his passion and commitment to both the source material and the characters’ creators as a key factor for success. Nearly a year has passed since Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav confirmed that Peter Safran and James Gunn would helm DC Studios, a new division within the company dedicated to overseeing projects related to the comic book universe such as films, television series, and video games.
Since the announcement, the franchise has undergone significant changes. Earlier this year, Safran and Gunn revealed the first set of projects for the new DCU, including new films for Batman, Superman, and Supergirl, as well as TV series based on Green Lantern and Booster Gold, among others. While some actors and characters from the previous canon will return, such as Viola Davis as Amanda Waller, John Cena as Peacemaker, and Xolo Marieduena as Jaime Reyes/Blue Beetle, most will not make an appearance.
It was recently confirmed that none of the primary Justice League heroes from the Snyderverse will be portrayed by the same actors, which means that Gal Gadot will not return as Wonder Woman, nor will Ezra Miller be The Flash, or Jason Momoa play Aquaman. Henry Cavill, Ben Affleck, and Ray Fisher had already been confirmed not to return. The decision to have Gunn oversee the new universe and his choices for the projects have sparked a mix of reactions. While many fans support giving the franchise a fresh start, others are disappointed that some of the previous universe’s actors have been let go. However, numerous comic book artists, including DeMatteis, stand by Gunn.
DeMatteis, a prominent name in the comic book industry with experience at companies like Dark Horse, Marvel Comics, and DC, revealed that he met with Gunn and had a pleasant conversation. He went on to state, “I’m not involved in any upcoming projects. Let me add that I think the DC TV/movie universe is in great hands with James Gunn. He’s a fan. He understands and respects the source material and the creators.”
The new DCU will commence in 2025 with the release of Superman: Legacy, starring David Corenswet as Clark Kent and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane. They will be joined by Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner, Anthony Carrigan as Metamorph, Isabela Moner as Hawkgirl, and Edi Gathegi as Mr. Terrific. Following Superman: Legacy, other projects in Gunn’s DCU include The Authority, The Brave and the Bold, Swamp Thing, and more.