James Gunn, the co-chairman of DC Studios, has indicated that he may recast a familiar DC actor in a new role within the evolving DC Universe, revealing plans to bring back Chukwudi Iwuji in a surprising way. Gunn’s willingness to reuse actors across different characters reflects his goal of prioritizing strong performances, even if it requires reinventing an actor’s appearance or identity in the same cinematic world.
On the latest episode of the Peacemaker podcast, discussion centered on Iwuji’s character Clemson Murn, a black ops leader of Project Butterfly who ultimately sacrifices himself in Season 1. Although Murn’s death seemed to close Iwuji’s chapter in the DC Universe, Gunn suggested that the actor’s involvement might continue in a different capacity. Iwuji also recently portrayed the villainous High Evolutionary in Gunn’s Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, demonstrating his range across franchises.
Potential New Roles for Chukwudi Iwuji in DC’s Future
Gunn, who is shaping the future direction of the DCU, is known for collaborating repeatedly with certain actors, including Michael Rooker and Nathan Fillion, both of whom have appeared multiple times within his DC projects. This pattern increases the likelihood that Iwuji could return in a new character role beyond Clemson Murn. When asked if Murn remains canon to the DCU, Gunn remarked,
“I think Clemson Murn is canon. Maybe his face might not be canon if we wanted to cast [Chukwudi Iwuji] as something else in the DCU. But also, Chuk could end up being some other character. Maybe that isn’t so humanoid.” —James Gunn, Filmmaker
This statement implies Iwuji might take on a more unconventional part, potentially a CGI character or someone distinctly non-human. Iwuji himself has expressed interest in portraying Etrigan the Demon, describing that character as the “Jekyll and Hyde” of the DC Universe during an interview on the Phase Zero podcast. Such a role would be a pivot from the serious nature of his previous parts and could showcase his versatility.
James Gunn’s Track Record of Recasting Familiar Faces
James Gunn’s pattern of recasting actors within the DCU is well established. Nathan Fillion, for example, played Guy Gardner in the recent Superman film, while Michael Rooker returned in Peacemaker Season 2 as the nemesis of Eagly, the pet eagle. This approach reflects Gunn’s enthusiasm for working with trusted collaborators repeatedly, viewing casting as a flexible tool to serve storytelling needs.
Given Gunn’s high praise of Iwuji as one of the best actors he has worked with, bringing him back seems both logical and exciting. Iwuji’s proven skill at portraying intense, focused characters aligns with Gunn’s passion for powerful performances, but there is also room for the actor to explore more playful or imaginative roles in future DC installments.
Implications for the DC Universe and Upcoming Projects
The possibility of Iwuji returning as a different, possibly non-humanoid character signals an imaginative direction for the new DCU under Gunn’s leadership. It also suggests that the studio embraces creative recasting as a way to enrich its expanding cast while maintaining strong acting talent. Fans can anticipate fresh interpretations of familiar faces and dynamic character developments as the DC Universe grows.
With Gunn steering DC Studios, the inclusion of versatile actors like Chukwudi Iwuji is likely to enhance storytelling depth and audience engagement. The announcement fuels anticipation for upcoming projects and reveals Gunn’s commitment to assembling a talented and adaptable ensemble cast for the next phase of DC Comics adaptations.
