Jason Momoa’s final Aquaman role in the DCEU officially reached its conclusion with Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, marking the end of an era for both the actor and the iconic king of Atlantis. The transition, confirmed in 2023 by DC Studios leadership, leaves both Hollywood and fans anticipating a new chapter for Aquaman—potentially darker and defined by deeper mythos.
Jason Momoa’s Aquaman Era Comes to a Close
In 2023, industry signals and studio comments made it clear that Jason Momoa’s time as Aquaman was drawing to a close. Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom arrived as a likely farewell for Momoa as the reigning monarch of Atlantis, with DC Studios co-head Peter Safran emphasizing how much the role elevated the actor’s career. Safran notably reflected, “He is the definitive Aquaman,” underscoring Momoa’s powerful impact on the character.
Despite this, Safran expressed that the DCEU remains Momoa’s “home,” even as his story within the franchise comes to an end. Having entered the universe over a decade ago, Momoa—once best known as Khal Drogo—secured his legacy as a pop culture icon, even while the latest Aquaman film opened to muted reviews and a modest box office, suggesting a period of transition for the franchise.
Mixed Emotions and Hints About the Future
Momoa himself openly acknowledged complicated feelings about parting with Aquaman. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, he admitted to uncertainty about whether he wanted this journey to end, while recognizing the decision might not be his to make.
“I don’t necessarily want it to be the end… [but] I don’t think it’s really, like, a choice.”
– Jason Momoa, Actor. His deep connection to the character remained clear, yet with James Gunn and Peter Safran outlining a new direction for DC Studios, Momoa accepted the need to reboot and allow others to push forward with their vision.
A Shift Toward Myth and Darkness in the DC Universe
Momoa’s Aquaman stories were heavily inspired by the New 52 comic era, which synthesized classic elements with a modern superhero approach. However, the incoming DC Universe leadership is preparing to take Aquaman down a different path—one more rooted in myth, political intrigue, and epic drama. Drawing inspiration from the Peter David comic run, the new direction promises to present Arthur Curry not as torn between two worlds, but as an entirely Atlantean ruler facing internal betrayal, loss, and tangled family relationships.
Unlike James Wan’s colorful, action-heavy approach, future adaptations may resemble an underwater epic reminiscent of The Lord of the Rings, signaling an ambitious tonal change. This new vision aims to distinguish Aquaman within the DC Universe, possibly counteracting the widespread superhero fatigue observed among audiences, if realized effectively.
Potential Revivals and Expanded Storytelling
Under this evolving creative philosophy, canceled or sidelined projects like Wan’s The Trench—a horror-tinged exploration of monstrous Atlantean descendants—could see new life. The Trench’s tone meshes well with the Peter David era, tapping into a larger and more mysterious mythology. At the same time, there is room for streaming projects such as The Atlantis Chronicles, which could deepen the lore and compete with Marvel’s expansive television projects.
Reimagining Aquaman’s Legacy
Earlier DCEU stories portrayed Aquaman as a half-human, half-Atlantean outsider, closely following the New 52 line. The Peter David interpretation, however, pushed deeper, with Aquaman as the magical son of an underwater wizard, moving away from the familiar “caught between two worlds” trope. By expanding his backstory, creators hope to refresh the mythology around Arthur Curry and shape a distinct identity for the sea king.
Reflecting on Momoa’s Journey and What’s Ahead
Peter Safran reflected on the significance of Momoa’s run, saying,
“It’s really been an 11- or 12-year journey for him… It feels like a very complete story when you watch the two films together.”
– Peter Safran, Co-Head, DC Studios. Though Momoa moves on, with new ventures such as his upcoming Minecraft movie, the industry and audiences alike await news about who will inherit the mantle—and the trident.
The responsibility of continuing Aquaman’s story weighs heavily on the legacy Momoa helped shape. The DC Universe’s future success may hinge on its ability to blend mythical storytelling, fantasy, and invigorated cinematic direction, ensuring Aquaman remains a central and powerful figure within its vast world.
