James Gunn clarified the fate of the lesser-known villain Kite Man during a recent episode of Peacemaker: The Official Podcast, confirming that the character remains alive but incarcerated. The discussion arose after fans noticed a newspaper clipping in Peacemaker Season 1, which referenced the hero defeating Kite Man, sparking debate about whether Kite Man was dead or still part of the DC Universe (DCU). Gunn assured listeners that Peacemaker did not kill Kite Man, leaving room for the character’s potential return.
Insight From the Podcast on Kite Man’s Current Situation
During the podcast, Gunn elaborated on Kite Man’s condition:
“It may say Peacemaker’s taken down Kite Man, I don’t think that means permanently,”
he explained.
“I don’t think it means he killed him, took him down. I think he just got him, and he’s in prison now. So, he’s still fine. We could see Kite Man, sure.”
—James Gunn, Writer and Director
This assertion aligns with the events shown in the series, where Peacemaker’s use of force is restrained. The podcast currently focuses on reviewing details from Season 1 and indicating which story elements remain canon within the evolving DCU, with Kite Man’s status confirmed as one of them. A co-host emphasized the point, underscoring its official standing within this continuity.
Background and Role of Kite Man in the DC Universe
Kite Man has a long but relatively minor history in DC Comics, first appearing in Batman issues dating back to 1960. Traditionally portrayed as a low-tier criminal who often serves as bait in more significant villains’ schemes, Kite Man lacked prominence until recently. The animated series Harley Quinn has given him renewed attention by portraying him with humor and character development. However, that incarnation is not part of the DCU continuity, meaning Kite Man’s portrayal there does not impact his DCU persona.
The Context of Kite Man Within the Current DCU Landscape
At present, the DCU’s live-action universe officially includes Creature Commandos and Superman, with Peacemaker Season 2 slated to join as continuity progresses. James Gunn continues to selectively determine which elements from the original stories remain valid canon. The universe already incorporates metahumans as an integral part of society, yet Kite Man’s future remains uncertain, as he is an ordinary man skilled with a hang-glider rather than a metahuman.
Upcoming Peacemaker Season 2 and Future Opportunities
Peacemaker Season 2 is set to premiere on August 21st on HBO Max, following Season 1, which is currently streaming alongside Creature Commandos. Fans eager for more updates on Kite Man’s role in upcoming stories can continue listening to Peacemaker: The Official Podcast, available across most podcast platforms, where James Gunn and his co-hosts provide additional commentary on the DCU’s evolving narrative.
