With the release of Superman captivating audiences, James Gunn has energized fans eager for more DCU entries. The film’s blend of heartfelt optimism and humor made a strong start, yet viewers noticed it introduced an overwhelming number of characters. Despite this, the eagerness to see more comic book figures brought to life has only grown, setting the stage for Gunn’s continued expansion of the DC Universe.
Many celebrated characters still await their debut, and following Superman, Gunn’s unique directorial style positions him perfectly to develop these heroes and villains. Whether through sequels or new projects, bringing these figures into the DCU promises to enrich the universe while embracing Gunn’s vibrant creative vision.
Deadman: Bringing the Supernatural Spirit to Life
Among lesser-known yet intriguing figures is Deadman, a distinctive character who has yet to shine in live-action. Already familiar with portraying iconic bald characters like Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) and Metamorpho (Anthony Carrigan), Gunn could easily incorporate Deadman into the DCU. After his murder, Boston Brand is granted the power to exist as a spirit who can possess others, fighting crime beyond the grave.
Rumors of a Deadman animated series swirl, but fans long for a live-action version that showcases his strange blend of mystery and humor. Gunn’s proven ability to embrace quirky characters suggests he could elevate Deadman’s supernatural appeal while adding comedic flair, making him a unique addition to the DCU’s roster.
Elevating Female Heroes with Vixen’s Animal Powers
DC’s lineup of female superheroes could grow stronger with Vixen, a character whose abilities are both fascinating and underappreciated. Vixen taps into the powers of past and present animals to aid her crime-fighting endeavors, presenting an unusual and versatile skill set. Though not a household name yet, she holds great potential to lead a grounded series focused on earthly adventures rather than universal-scale disasters.
While it might not be specifically James Gunn’s project to introduce her, Vixen’s addition would diversify the DCU’s female heroes. Her ability to collaborate well with other characters, such as Animal Man, underscores her potential for rich storytelling and team dynamics within the universe.
Mister Mxyzptlk: The Mischievous Interdimensional Trickster
Mister Mxyzptlk, the reality-bending imp from another dimension, remains a fan favorite villain that could bring fresh energy to the DCU, especially in a Superman sequel. Briefly mentioned in the recent film, the door is wide open for this character known for his relentless pranks and ability to warp reality, constantly challenging Superman’s strength and patience.
While Mxyzptlk may not serve well as a main antagonist, his presence could add levity and complexity to the story, interacting uniquely with Superman (David Corenswet) and characters like the Justice Gang. His previous appearances on television’s Supergirl demonstrate his appeal as a source of comic relief and chaos alike, making him a natural fit for the DC Universe’s expanding narrative.
Green Lantern (Kyle Rayner): Showcasing Creativity and Power
Green Lantern fans await the 2026 release of Lanterns, and though Guy Gardner (Nathan Fillion) featured prominently in Superman, there is room for more members of this cosmic group. Kyle Rayner stands out for his vast creativity and formidable strength as a Green Lantern, qualities that position him as a standout among the lantern corps.
Introducing Rayner will require deft use of CGI given the complexity of his powers, yet the payoff could be substantial. Building on the creative groundwork Gunn laid with Guy Gardner, Kyle Rayner’s arrival on the big screen could introduce compelling new storylines while expanding the DCU’s cosmic reach.
Zatanna: Unlocking the DCU’s Mystical Depths
Zatanna, a master of magic and one of the DC Universe’s prominent female sorcerers, is poised to gain a higher profile through live-action appearances. Close in popularity to legends like Wonder Woman and Supergirl (Milly Alcock), Zatanna’s ability to wield powerful magic would open the door to the DCU’s supernatural dimension.
Despite James Gunn’s inclination toward sci-fi, his creativity could also bring Zatanna’s mystical abilities vividly to life. Whether Gunn or another director takes the helm, Zatanna deserves a foundational role in expanding the DC Universe beyond its traditional science-based heroes, offering a fascinating blend of magic and adventure.
Plastic Man: Injecting Comedy and Flexibility into the Universe
Plastic Man remains one of the most eagerly awaited characters in the DC fandom, noted for his comedic origins and incredible body-morphing abilities. His power to reshape his form makes him surprisingly formidable, and fans hope James Gunn will be the one to adapt this character authentically.
With familiar faces Mister Terrific (Edi Gathegi) and Metamorpho already established, the introduction of Plastic Man would almost complete the group known as The Terrifics. With his distinct blend of humor and power, Plastic Man’s inclusion could both expand the DCU’s hero roster and provide much-needed levity.
Bizarro: A Complex Mirror for Superman
Bizarro, an enigmatic figure often portrayed as a clone or alien doppelgänger of Superman, represents a great narrative opportunity hinted at for a sequel. The recent Superman film alluded to this character without revealing his identity, suggesting his story could be explored in future installments.
As either a villain, anti-hero, or reluctant ally, Bizarro shares important thematic links with Superman, offering layers of conflict and complexity. Gunn’s nuanced approach positions him well to deliver the depth this character requires, enriching the ongoing Superman saga and possibly the wider DCU.
Reviving the Metal Men: An Ensemble Awaiting a Visionary
The Metal Men, a quirky ensemble of heroes each made from different metals with unique abilities, could become a bold new frontier within the DCU. Fans recognize James Gunn’s talent for transforming lesser-known teams into beloved franchises, as demonstrated with Guardians of the Galaxy and Peacemaker, making him an ideal figure to lead this project.
Though not currently high in demand, the Metal Men offer considerable creative potential, blending whimsy with action. Should the DCU stabilize, a James Gunn-led Metal Men adaptation could become a standout passion project known for originality and heart.
Introducing a New Batman: The Future of the Caped Crusader
Despite the popularity of Robert Pattinson’s Batman, James Gunn has confirmed this version will not enter the DCU, with a new actor taking over for The Brave and the Bold film. Gunn’s involvement in future Batman projects is highly anticipated, especially one focusing on the classic Superman-Batman partnership.
Gunn’s understanding of Superman places him in a unique position to craft a Batman who complements and contrasts the Man of Steel. Setting up a dynamic filled with learning, humor, and conflict, Gunn could create a distinctive iteration of the Dark Knight that resonates deeply with audiences in the evolving DCU landscape.
Dex-Starr: A Red Lantern Rival for Krypto
Though Batman naturally tops many wish lists, Dex-Starr, a vengeful Red Lantern cat, stands out as a highly requested James Gunn DCU character adaptation after Superman. Endowed with rage after his owner was murdered, Dex-Starr’s dark and emotional tale fits Gunn’s knack for blending tragedy with vivid characterization.
Following Krypto’s standout performance as a mischievous dog, Dex-Starr’s introduction offers a perfect counterpoint. Gunn’s ability to realistically portray animals and embed them with rich backstories positions him to balance the character’s hate, pathos, and visual impact. The potential for an intense Krypto versus Dex-Starr showdown promises to captivate DCU fans with its originality and emotional depth.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does James Gunn believe in God?
A. Gunn grew up in a Catholic home and has talked about the continuing importance of prayer in his life. However, he also described himself as being “in some ways, against religion.”
Q. Is James Gunn no longer with Marvel?
A. After the director was removed from the Guardians of the Galaxy series in 2018, Gunn felt his career might have ended. Fortunately, he and Peter Safran were chosen to lead DC Studios in 2022, which gave him a new opportunity in superhero films.
Q. What is James Gunn’s religion?
A. In James Gunn’s 2025 version of Superman, the CGI-animated Krypto the Superdog was inspired by Ozu. Gunn grew up in a Catholic household and still values prayer in his life. However, he has also expressed some opposition to organized religion.
