James Gunn has delivered new insights about the status of the Waller DCU series, ending recent rumors and reassuring fans that the Amanda Waller spinoff is actively in development. Gunn addressed speculation regarding changes to the project and confirmed that Viola Davis will remain at the heart of the highly anticipated show, which continues to attract attention among DC Universe followers.
The Waller series, announced alongside other Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters projects in January 2023, focuses on Amanda Waller, portrayed by Viola Davis, and is set to put her character center stage for the first time. Since its announcement, updates have been relatively rare, especially compared to news about Peacemaker season 2, which is expected to premiere in August. The limited information led to a wave of rumors, prompting fans to seek clarity from James Gunn, who, together with Peter Safran, oversees DC Studios.
James Gunn Dismisses Speculation About the Waller Series
As conversations about DC Universe projects often give rise to unfounded claims, recent fan discussions specifically questioned whether the Waller series had been reworked into a “Checkmate” storyline or cancelled altogether. A fan asked James Gunn directly,
“Are the rumors about the Waller show being reworked into a Checkmate show B.S too,”
—user, Threads
James Gunn responded, providing assurance that the Waller show remains in development and has not been cancelled. According to Gunn, Christal Henry and Jeremy Carver are still attached as showrunners, and Davis continues in her role as executive producer, suggesting a consistent creative vision for the project.
What These Updates Signal for Amanda Waller’s Future
James Gunn’s direct response highlights DC Studios’ persistent interest in advancing Amanda Waller’s journey within the DC Universe, reinforcing the company’s dedication even in the face of slow progress. While rumors suggested a potential pivot to a Checkmate-themed show, Gunn’s comments clarify that such changes are not underway. However, since the DCEU has not previously showcased the Checkmate organization, there remains a possibility for its introduction within Amanda Waller’s narrative.
In a November 2024 interview, Steve Agee confirmed the Waller spinoff was still being written, a detail consistent with Gunn’s latest comments. The series has not yet been fully greenlit, but ongoing development signals that DC Studios is putting effort into making the project a reality. The studio’s commitment may mean fans will have to wait longer for release news, but, importantly, Waller has not been shelved or abandoned.
Potential Directions and Cast of the Waller Series
Amanda Waller, recognized for her strategic expertise and moral complexity, remains a standout character in DC lore, and the new series aims to harness the full potential of Davis’s portrayal. With showrunners Christal Henry and Jeremy Carver at the helm, and the backing of DC Studios co-CEO Peter Safran, Waller stands out as a major television project for the DC Universe.
The current cast lineup includes Viola Davis as Amanda Waller, Danielle Brooks, and Steve Agee. Their performances are expected to bring life to a story centered around alliances, betrayal, and the murky world of governmental operations. The series promises to explore Amanda Waller’s relationships with both trusted allies and her most dangerous adversaries—showcasing the character’s determined leadership and tactical maneuvers in the context of superhuman intrigue.
Looking Ahead for DC Studios and Amanda Waller
The revelations from James Gunn offer fans reassurance that the Waller DCU series is progressing, keeping hope alive for its eventual arrival on screens. Given Amanda Waller’s layered comic history and Davis’s prior performances in the DCEU, the series represents an opportunity for further character development and exploration of previously untouched storylines. While the wait for a production start or release date may extend into late 2025 or beyond, the ongoing commitment of DC Studios makes Waller a series to watch as the DC Universe continues to expand its interconnected stories.
