James Gunn has revealed that a secret character will link the early stages of the DC Universe (DCU) together, sparking widespread fan theories about the franchise’s direction. This “James Gunn DCU secret character” tease comes amid preparations for major films and series like Superman, Lanterns, and Supergirl, suggesting a connected storyline underpinning several projects.
Gunn Reveals a Hidden Character Already Introduced in the DCU
During press appearances for Superman, James Gunn teased the presence of a crucial character whose narrative ties the DCU’s unfolding plotlines. Clarifying that this character likely isn’t who fans expect, Gunn stated,
“I do know whose story it is. And it probably isn’t anyone anyone would ever expect.” —James Gunn, Director
He further explained that the character has already appeared in the DCU and encouraged viewers to watch the upcoming season of Peacemaker for additional clues, suggesting the series holds more significance than previously assumed. Gunn remarked,
“And it’s not what anyone thinks. It’s not what anyone would guess. But I think that if people watch the next season of Peacemaker, they’ll see where a lot of these things are going, and have a little bit more of a sense of maybe what can happen.” —James Gunn, Director
This points to an intricate narrative web connecting the cinematic and television universe, with Peacemaker season 2 potentially revealing important groundwork for future DCU storylines.
Speculation Grows Around Nathan Fillion’s Guy Gardner as the Central Figure
A compelling theory identifies Nathan Fillion’s portrayal of Guy Gardner as the secret character Gunn hinted at. Guy Gardner, who debuted in the Superman film as part of the Justice Gang alongside Hawkgirl and Mr. Terrific, has gradually become a recurring presence in the DCU. The Justice Gang itself was funded by Maxwell Lord, a key figure introduced in Superman, tying these characters into the broader story network.
The trailer for Peacemaker season 2 confirmed appearances from Guy Gardner, Hawkgirl, and Maxwell Lord, while Nathan Fillion has filmed additional scenes for the upcoming Lanterns series. This consistent inclusion of Guy Gardner across multiple productions indicates his growing importance within the DCU narrative.
Though future appearances of Guy Gardner are currently unconfirmed, his potential returns are numerous within the DCU’s expanding media slate. His history in DC Comics, especially notable appearances alongside Batman in the animated series Brave and the Bold, hints at further integration into upcoming storylines. Among the DC Studios projects, however, a Booster Gold series shows particular promise for expanding Gardner’s role while setting the stage for significant franchise developments.
Guy Gardner and Booster Gold’s Partnership Could Shape the DCU’s Upcoming Epic
The development of a Booster Gold show suggests a critical turning point for the DCU’s future, with Guy Gardner expected to continue key storylines through his friendship with Booster. Their relationship is marked by rivalry and camaraderie, enriched by the emotional weight of events involving Blue Beetle, another important character in Booster’s circle.
In DC Comics, Booster Gold and Ted Kord’s Blue Beetle share a close bond, making Kord’s death, caused by Maxwell Lord, profoundly impactful for Booster. Since Maxwell Lord is already established in the DCU, these connections may play a vital role in shaping upcoming narratives, particularly those leading to the Infinite Crisis story arc.
If fan speculation holds true, Guy Gardner and Booster Gold could be pivotal in leading the DCU toward the Infinite Crisis event. The original Infinite Crisis storyline features major heroes like Superman, Wonder Woman, and Batman fractured by internal struggles, ultimately splintering the Justice League. Booster Gold becomes a central figure in the conflict, teaming up with Batman and others as the multiverse faces major threats from characters such as Lex Luthor and Conner Kent’s Superboy.
Although James Gunn remains tight-lipped about his full plans, such speculation points toward one of the most significant comic book crossover events being adapted for film and television. The inclusion of characters like Sean Gunn’s Maxwell Lord and the trajectory of figures such as Guy Gardner may pave the way for some of DC’s most complex and emotionally driven superhero stories to reach the screen.
