The transition at Warner Bros. led to James Gunn and Peter Safran taking the helm of DC Studios, ushering in a reboot of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) in 2022. This leadership change resulted in the cancellation of five significant DC movie projects as the new direction for the DCU, focused on Chapter One: Gods and Monsters, took shape.
Gunn and Safran, appointed co-chairs of DC Studios, completed lingering projects like The Flash and Blue Beetle before unveiling plans that redefined DC’s cinematic future. Their strategy involved discontinuing several planned sequels and standalone films to clear the way for a refreshed DC Universe, marking a pivotal shift for fans and filmmakers alike.
Major DC Movie Projects Axed Under James Gunn’s Direction
Several projects fell victim to the new DC Studios overhaul, reflecting a broader effort to reboot the universe’s storyline and characters. These cancellations include both anticipated sequels and new installments that were in various stages of development.
Abandoned Plans for Batman Beyond Film
After Michael Keaton returned as Bruce Wayne in The Flash, rumors hinted at a larger role for the actor, including a Batman Beyond adaptation inspired by the well-known comic series. Although never officially announced, insider reports suggested Christina Hodson, known for Birds of Prey, was set to write the script.
This Batman Beyond project was discontinued in December 2022 shortly after Gunn and Safran began their tenure at DC Studios. While an animated Batman Beyond film is reportedly still in early development, it remains separate from the canceled live-action project and has had few updates.
Black Adam 2 Cancelled Despite Promising Setup
Black Adam was positioned as a powerhouse film expected to alter the power dynamics within the DCEU, ending with a post-credits scene hinting at a rematch with Superman. However, despite star Dwayne Johnson’s enthusiasm, the sequel was shelved due to the leadership changes at DC Studios.
Johnson publicly acknowledged in 2023 that James Gunn and Peter Safran’s new direction prevented Black Adam 2 from moving forward, marking a significant shift from previous plans.
Wonder Woman 3 Removed from Current DC Plans
Wonder Woman, a cornerstone of the DCEU, was set for a third installment with director Patty Jenkins and actress Gal Gadot returning. This film was scrapped as part of the studio’s sweeping restructure, leaving Gadot’s version of Diana Prince behind.
According to reports, DC Studios is developing a new Wonder Woman film intended to introduce a new actress playing Diana Prince, signaling a fresh start for the iconic character in the rebooted DCU.
Gotham City Sirens Project Denied by James Gunn and Margot Robbie
Following Birds of Prey, speculation arose that Margot Robbie’s Harley Quinn would headline Gotham City Sirens, a follow-up exploring other female antiheroes. However, Robbie has stated that a sequel was never officially in development despite persistent rumors.
Four years ago, James Gunn clarified on Reddit that although he and Robbie discussed working together again after The Suicide Squad, they never considered producing Gotham City Sirens.
never discussed nor considered [Gotham City Sirens].
—James Gunn, Co-chair of DC Studios
Supergirl Spin-off with Sasha Calle Shelved
After Sasha Calle‘s introduction as Supergirl in The Flash, there were plans for a solo film featuring her as Superman’s cousin. When Gunn and Safran announced a new Supergirl movie within their Chapter One slate, this decision effectively canceled that project.
The new Supergirl film will star Milly Alcock, continuing the story of Kara Danvers as viewers saw her briefly in the recent Superman movie, thus setting a different path for the character.
Implications for the DC Universe’s Future
These cancellations highlight James Gunn and Peter Safran‘s commitment to resetting the DCU with a coherent and unified vision under DC Studios. By halting previously announced sequels and spinoffs, they aim to focus resources on new narratives that will introduce audiences to reimagined characters and story arcs.
This strategy may disappoint fans of certain franchises but provides an opportunity for fresh storytelling and creative reinvention. The upcoming projects, particularly those planned in Chapter One: Gods and Monsters, will reveal how this revamped approach shapes the future of the DC Universe on screen.
