James Gunn‘s DCU reboot introducing new Arrowverse heroes marks a pivotal change for DC’s cinematic future, offering fresh takes on legendary characters just as the Arrowverse era closes after Superman & Lois wrapped in 2024. As the new vision takes shape under Gunn and Peter Safran, fans can expect at least seven major Arrowverse heroes to return in reimagined roles, promising emotional and dramatic shifts as the franchise moves from the small screen to bigger, interconnected adventures.
How the Arrowverse Set the Stage for a DCU Transformation
The Arrowverse, which ran successfully for over a decade on The CW, gave rise to a complex superhero shared universe featuring Stephen Amell’s Green Arrow, Grant Gustin’s Barry Allen, and Melissa Benoist’s Supergirl at its heart. The universe became known for spectacular crossover events like Crisis on Infinite Earths, where the fabric of the multiverse was woven tighter with key appearances, including Ezra Miller’s Flash from the DC Extended Universe.
With the conclusion of Superman & Lois, the Arrowverse closed one chapter of television storytelling. Now, James Gunn’s DCU, initiated by Creature Commandos and set to continue with David Corenswet’s Superman film, promises a new era of stories that will redefine how familiar characters are perceived and how their journeys will intertwine across film and television.
Reinvented Arrowverse Heroes Taking New Form in Gunn’s DCU
James Gunn and his creative team are reshaping the landscape by reintroducing several key Arrowverse characters with bold reinterpretations. Here’s a look at each Arrowverse hero set for an exciting comeback in the first chapter of Gunn’s DCU.
The Man of Steel Finds New Life on the Big Screen
No DC reboot feels complete without a new Superman, and James Gunn’s universe embraces this by casting David Corenswet as the latest Man of Steel. The Arrowverse closed Tyler Hoechlin’s journey as Superman, who appeared in two forms: one joined Earth Prime’s heroes, while another existed in a separate world where he stood as humanity’s last hope.
Brandon Routh also returned as Clark Kent from Superman Returns during Crisis on Infinite Earths, reminding audiences of the character’s enduring impact. While the Arrowverse often built crossovers around its leading trio, Gunn’s DCU will now position Superman as the centerpiece, shaping the narrative arcs of the new franchise.
Hawkgirl Steps Up for a Central Justice Gang Role
Within the Arrowverse, Ciara Renée portrayed Hawkgirl, who united heroes for the first major battle against Vandal Savage before joining DC’s Legends of Tomorrow. Despite her significant involvement, Hawkgirl’s adventure with the Legends lasted just one season, limiting her overall contribution to the shared universe.
The DCU aims to give Hawkgirl much greater influence. Isabel Merced’s version joins the Justice Gang, alongside Nathan Fillion’s Green Lantern (Guy Gardner) and Edi Gathegi’s Mr. Terrific, as seen in the new Superman trailer. This reimagining promises dynamic interaction and leadership not previously explored in the Arrowverse.
Mr. Terrific Emerges from the Shadows
Echo Kellum’s depiction of Mr. Terrific in Arrow (Seasons 4-8) made him an essential strategist and support for Oliver Queen’s team, often outsmarting formidable enemies, including alternate Nazi versions of popular heroes.
Now, Edi Gathegi brings Mr. Terrific to life in the DCU, where he will serve as intellectual muscle for the Justice Gang. Known as the third-smartest person in DC Comics lore, his analytical prowess is expected to pave the way for smart solutions against complex threats, raising his profile from computer whiz to central hero in Gunn’s universe.
Supergirl Soars into Uncharted Territory
Melissa Benoist’s Supergirl originally hailed from Earth-38 but later saw her reality merge with The Flash and Green Arrow’s world during Crisis on Infinite Earths. Her Arrowverse arc concluded with her revealing her secret to humanity, mirroring pivotal moments for Tyler Hoechlin’s Superman.
In Gunn’s DCU, the character will undergo a profound makeover. Milly Alcock will star in Superman: Woman of Tomorrow, with her intergalactic journey placing her alongside Jason Momoa’s Lobo. This space-bound adventure hints at a grittier, more cosmic direction than the Arrowverse’s earth-focused storytelling.
Vigilante’s Evolution from Gritty Loner to Comedic Ally
The Arrowverse presented two distinct takes on Vigilante: Vincent Sobel wielding ferocity as a street-level enforcer, and Adrian Chase—the primary antagonist of Arrow Season 5—driven by revenge against Oliver Queen. Each interpretation added a different shade of complexity to the Arrowverse mythos.
Freddie Stroma’s portrayal in the DCU swings the character toward humor, introducing a lighter, more comedic Adrian Chase as seen in Peacemaker. This new Vigilante is expected to play a dramatic support role in the upcoming second season, aiding John Cena’s titular hero against emerging threats.
The Dark Knight Shifts from Cameos to Leading the Charge
Batman’s presence in the Arrowverse was limited but memorable, highlighted by Kevin Conroy’s iconic performance during Crisis on Infinite Earths and Warren Christie’s brief appearance in Batwoman. Restrictions kept Gotham’s hero largely on the fringes, preserving his mystique for notable event appearances.
With the launch of the DCU, Batman will become a consistent force alongside David Corenswet’s Superman, debuting in The Brave and the Bold and serving as a vital anchor for upcoming stories that demand both intellect and force in equal measure.
Booster Gold Finally Gets His Moment
Donald Faison’s introduction as Booster Gold in Legends of Tomorrow’s final season was cut short when The CW dropped the series, leaving fans wanting more of this time-traveling hero. This abrupt end stunted Booster Gold’s narrative potential in the Arrowverse.
James Gunn and Peter Safran have announced that Booster Gold will headline his own show in the new DCU, giving the character an overdue platform to showcase his wit and unique approach to heroics within the Gods and Monsters chapter.
Bonus: Kid Flash’s Glimpse into the Future
Arrowverse regulars will remember Wally West’s Kid Flash aiding Grant Gustin’s Barry Allen in The Flash, battling villains like Savitar, The Rival, and Bloodwork throughout the series. While Kid Flash has not yet officially appeared in the DCU, a vision sequence in Creature Commandos Episode 4 hinted at his possible introduction, suggesting he may join teams like the Teen Titans or appear in a future Flash story.
What Gunn’s DCU Expansion Means for DC Fans
These drastic changes underscore James Gunn’s commitment to revitalizing DC’s roster, drawing deeply from both cinematic heritage and the Arrowverse’s emotional legacy. Fans can expect to see familiar faces given unexpected depth and direction, promising a cinematic universe brimming with hope, emotion, and renewed purpose for heroes like Superman, Hawkgirl, Supergirl, and more.
As James Gunn’s DCU reboot introducing new Arrowverse heroes ramps up, the shift will be scrutinized for how these beloved characters adapt to new contexts, interact with one another, and shape the mythology for a new generation of viewers eager for compelling stories and unexpected heroism.
