Friday, December 26, 2025

James Gunn announces Wonder Woman movie in development at DC Studios—fresh start planned for iconic hero

James Gunn announces Wonder Woman movie development at DC Studios, confirming that the iconic superhero will make a cinematic return with a brand-new approach. Although no writer has been named yet, Gunn revealed that work has begun, marking a major shift for Diana Prince in the ongoing reimagining of the studio’s superhero roster.

Speculation about the future of the Justice League has been mounting as Superman, now portrayed by David Corenswet, gears up for a new film release next month. In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, director James Gunn, who also co-leads DC Studios with Peter Safran, stated that a Wonder Woman film is currently in development. This move signals that Diana Prince could be back on the big screen sooner than expected, albeit with a fresh perspective and possibly a new cast.

Superman’s upcoming relaunch triggers questions about other heroes

The return of Superman, reimagined for a new era, has prompted renewed interest in the future of other core Justice League members. While David Corenswet is set to take on the role of Clark Kent in the new “Superman” film arriving July 11, 2025, fans are curious about the next phases for characters like Wonder Woman, Batman, and others deeply tied to the DC movie universe’s legacy.

James Gunn
Image of: James Gunn

James Gunn, during his interview promoting the upcoming Superman release, responded to questions about Wonder Woman’s status by saying the movie is actively being written. This comes at a time when the studio is making significant changes to the familiar superhero line-up, departing from earlier portrayals under Zack Snyder’s direction.

A new chapter for Wonder Woman with potential recasting

The new Wonder Woman film represents a reset for the titular hero, who was previously played by Gal Gadot. Her portrayal came in blockbuster releases like “Wonder Woman” (2017), “Justice League” (2017), “Wonder Woman 1984” (2020), and a cameo in “The Flash” (2023). When Gunn and Safran took control of DC Studios, questions immediately arose about whether major stars such as Gal Gadot and “Man of Steel’s” Henry Cavill would continue in their roles.

Although there were reports and direct statements from Gal Gadot and director Patty Jenkins that a third Wonder Woman movie was in the works, DC Studios has signaled a clear break from those prior plans. Instead, the leadership is steering toward a comprehensive overhaul of the DC film universe, reorganizing key properties and storylines from the ground up.

In their initial announcements, Gunn and Safran unveiled the development of “Paradise Lost,” a television series that dives deep into Princess Diana’s birthplace, Themyscira. This show has been described as a prequel, likened to “Game of Thrones” for its focus on politics, power struggles, and Amazonian history before Diana Prince is even born.

“It’s an origin story of how this society of women came about. What does it mean? What are their politics like? What are their rules? Who’s in charge? What are the games that they play with each other to get to the top? I think it’s really exciting.”

—James Gunn, co-head of DC Studios

Based on current developments, when Wonder Woman returns to theaters, it is likely that the character will be recast as part of the studio’s new creative approach, reflecting significant changes in the universe’s lineup of superheroes and casting choices.

Major projects on the horizon from DC Studios

DC Studios, under the leadership of James Gunn and Peter Safran, is radically expanding its cinematic slate. Nicholas Hoult’s casting as Lex Luthor and David Corenswet’s lead role as Superman headline the new “Superman” film, with Jessica Miglio contributing as production photographer. The company has also announced steady progress on other key properties, including ongoing reimaginings of legendary characters and stories.

Robert Pattinson remains as Batman in Matt Reeves“The Batman” universe, although that narrative continues separately in the extended “Elseworlds” continuity, rather than being part of DC’s integrated storyline. Despite recent production delays, a sequel for Pattinson’s Batman is still being planned and written.

Another significant film in development is

“Batman: The Brave and the Bold,”

inspired by Grant Morrison’s acclaimed comic run. This adaptation introduces new dynamics for Bruce Wayne, focusing on his relationship with his son, Damien Wayne, as Robin. The film aims to launch the extended “Bat-family” on screen. However, creative hurdles, such as script revisions and production delays, have impacted its progress.

Looking ahead, “Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow,” starring Milly Alcock and directed by Craig Gillespie with a screenplay by Ana Nogueira, is set for a June 2026 release. Meanwhile, “Clayface,” a horror-themed Batman villain film, directed by James Watkins from a script by Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini, has a tentative September 2026 launch date, though rewrites are ongoing.

Fans can also expect “Dynamic Duo,” an animated feature focusing on Batman’s legendary sidekicks Dick Grayson and Jason Todd, marked for a June 2028 premiere if production stays on track.

Timeline for the new Wonder Woman movie remains unclear

The exact release date for the newly announced Wonder Woman movie remains undetermined. With work on the script only just beginning, it is premature to forecast when the character will grace theaters once again. What is confirmed is that the fresh direction at DC Studios could yield new storylines, creative teams, and possibly a new actress taking on the role of the Amazonian hero.

A look back: Wonder Woman’s cinematic appearances to date

Wonder Woman’s presence has long been felt in the DC cinematic universe, both in animated and live-action films. The character has appeared in:

1. Wonder Woman (2009)
2. Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)
3. Wonder Woman (2017)
4. Justice League (2017)
5. Wonder Woman: Bloodlines (2019)
6. Wonder Woman 1984 (2020)
7. Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021)
8. Peacemaker (2022)
9. Shazam! Fury of the Gods (2023)
10. The Flash (2023)

Each depiction has provided a new angle on Diana Prince, from Gal Gadot’s celebrated performances to animated features and ensemble superhero films.

Significance of the announcement and the road ahead for DC Studios

James Gunn’s disclosure about the new Wonder Woman film showcases DC Studios’ commitment to reinventing its cinematic legacy. With substantial changes at every level—from casting to storytelling—the studio is signaling its bid to reboot and modernize its superhero universe for a new generation. While longtime fans may feel a sense of uncertainty following the transition away from familiar faces like Gal Gadot, Henry Cavill, and others who defined the previous era, there is anticipation for the innovative paths Gunn and Safran are carving out.

Looking forward, further updates regarding casting, project timelines, and creative teams are expected. As DC Studios advances with its ambitious strategy, the return of Wonder Woman is likely to be closely watched by audiences eager to see where this new vision for one of the world’s most beloved superheroes will lead.