James Gunn has confirmed that Aquaman will not hold a significant role in the new DC Universe (DCU), marking a clear shift from the character’s previous prominence. This update follows Aquaman’s extensive run in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) since Jason Momoa first appeared as Arthur Curry in 2016’s Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.
Jason Momoa’s Aquaman Journey in the DCEU
Jason Momoa introduced audiences to Aquaman with a brief cameo in 2016, which was quickly followed by a more substantial appearance in 2017’s Justice League. Despite that film’s mixed reception, Aquaman earned its own solo movie in 2018 and achieved massive box office success, grossing $1.1 billion worldwide. The sequel, launched in 2023, outperformed other DC releases that year but still underwhelmed with a global total of $440 million.
Speculation around Aquaman’s story arc within the original DCEU suggested involvement in major crossover events, like Crisis on Infinite Earths, and hinted at potential conflicts with characters such as Wonder Woman during a Flashpoint adaptation. However, Warner Bros. did not pursue those storylines effectively before transitioning from the DCEU to the new DCU.
The Shift in Aquaman’s Status Within the DCU
In the TV series Peacemaker’s first season, Aquaman was the subject of jokes, notably with Christopher Smith humorously accusing the hero of “f***ing fish.” Jason Momoa’s Aquaman eventually appeared in the series finale to refute these claims alongside Ezra Miller’s Flash. Yet, with the establishment of the new DCU, that particular scene, along with Aquaman’s broader fame, is no longer considered canon.
James Gunn, co-CEO of DC Studios and director of the Superman movie, clarified on the Peacemaker official podcast that while characters like Bloodsport remain part of the current continuity, Aquaman’s celebrity status in that universe does not. He stated,
“It’s unlikely that Aquaman is a famous hero in the DCU as Superman and Peacemaker season 2 are happening. That’s unlikely,”
and added jokingly,
“You can cut out Aquaman f***ing fish.”
Gunn further communicated that fans should not expect to see Aquaman or The Flash soon in the DCU, noting that both characters will likely be recast with new actors. This signals a fresh creative direction for Arthur Curry’s character, who will not be as established or celebrated in the DCU when Superman’s story unfolds.
Jason Momoa’s Transition to Playing Lobo
While James Gunn reshapes Aquaman’s role, Jason Momoa has already taken on a new character within the DC Universe, confirming his casting as Lobo in the upcoming Supergirl movie set to release in 2026. Momoa expressed excitement about the role, revealing,
“[I] have every Lobo comic. He was my favorite. I thought I was gonna be playing Lobo when Zack Snyder called me,”
adding,
“Because it was Batman v. Superman, they needed to have a villain in there, and that’s the only guy that can, you know.”
On portraying Lobo, Momoa shared,
“This is the role I’ve always wanted to play. That’s the comic I loved, so I’m really nervous about it,”
and further described the character, saying,
“It’s kind of a no-brainer to play this character. It’s pretty big. I don’t want to give away too much, but I mean, we look pretty dead on, exactly like the character, and he’s pretty rough and gruff and…I’ll say the bike’s really cool.”
Momoa also expressed hope about continuing in the role, stating,
“I hope so. I hope so. I hope so. It’s her movie, so it’s great. I just come in for a little bit.”
What to Expect from the New DCU and Supergirl’s Upcoming Story
Supergirl’s upcoming film, scheduled for a June 26, 2026 release, will follow the titular character as she journeys across the galaxy to celebrate her 21st birthday with Krypto the Superdog. Along the way, she encounters a woman named Ruthye and embarks on a quest for vengeance. Momoa’s Lobo will play a role in this galactic adventure, marking his first major appearance in the redefined DC Universe.
This new phase for the DCU, shaped by James Gunn’s vision, indicates both a departure from prior storylines and an opportunity to redefine iconic characters. Aquaman’s reduced status reflects a broader recalibration of superhero roles, while Momoa’s recasting as Lobo introduces a fresh dynamic likely to engage longtime fans and new audiences alike.
