James Gunn’s ongoing expansion of the DC Universe (DCU) for HBO Max is set to become more thrilling with the introduction of Gorilla Grodd, a notorious supervillain. The announcement comes alongside a new series development centered on Skyler Gisondo’s character, Jimmy Olsen, confirming the series as Grodd’s debut platform within the DCU.
Jimmy Olsen’s Role and the Series Context
Following the release of the Superman film directed by Gunn, several spin-offs for HBO Max were anticipated. Among these, industry insider Jeff Sneider revealed that the upcoming series starring Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen will showcase Gorilla Grodd for the first time in this shared universe. Jimmy Olsen is portrayed as a photographer working closely with Clark Kent, played by David Corenswet, and Lois Lane, played by Rachel Brosnahan, at the Daily Planet.
Clarifications on Gorilla Grodd’s Origin and Gunn’s Vision
James Gunn previously addressed speculation about Gorilla Grodd’s origins after appearing smarter primates connected to Lex Luthor in Superman. During an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Gunn explained that these creatures are not Grodd and emphasized his distinct plans for the character.
“No, no, no. Because I know exactly what that is. I love Gorilla Grodd, so got other plans for that guy. He’s not a monkey, he’s an ape!” —James Gunn, Director
Gorilla Grodd, a character first introduced in The Flash #106 in 1959, is a highly intelligent ape who gained psychic powers after exposure to meteorite radiation. Although primarily an adversary of the Scarlet Speedster, Grodd has also confronted heroes like Batman and Superman in various comic storylines.
The Importance of Gorilla Grodd’s Introduction to the DCU
Integrating Gorilla Grodd into the DCU through an HBO Max series centered on Jimmy Olsen adds depth and complexity to the evolving storyline under James Gunn’s direction. This move highlights the creative intent to explore lesser-seen villains while expanding character arcs of familiar faces such as Clark Kent and Lois Lane. Fans are eagerly awaiting further details as the project develops.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is James Gunn’s religion?
A. Gunn grew up in a Catholic family and still finds prayer significant in his life. However, he describes himself as somewhat opposed to organized religion.
Q. Is James Gunn no longer with Marvel?
A. Gunn collaborated with Marvel Studios on the Guardians of the Galaxy series prior to moving to DC Studios as co-CEO in 2022. Before assuming the co-CEO position, he directed The Suicide Squad (2021) for DC. This happened after he was initially dismissed from Marvel, but eventually rehired for Guardians of the Galaxy 3.
Q. What religion is James Gunn?
A. Ozu inspired the new CGI version of Krypto the Superdog in Gunn’s 2025 Superman adaptation. Gunn grew up in a Catholic household. While he still finds prayer significant, he stated he is “in some ways, anti-religion.”
