With James Gunn actively leading the new DC Universe, the last show produced without his involvement has officially concluded. The Sandman, a distinct series under DC Entertainment, ended its run on Netflix with the release of its second and final season on July 24, 2025. This milestone marks the close of a chapter for DC, as Gunn and Peter Safran push forward with fresh projects aligned with their vision for the franchise.
Since being appointed co-CEOs of DC Studios nearly three years ago, James Gunn and Safran have significantly refined DC’s creative output, focusing on a unified and expansive universe. The Sandman, which debuted in August 2022, existed outside this evolving framework, following Dream (Morpheus) as he sought to restore balance across his realm and the waking world. Developed by Neil Gaiman, David S. Goyer, and Allan Heinberg, this critically praised show concludes its story independently from the interconnected DC Universe under Gunn’s stewardship.
James Gunn’s Vision Shapes the Future of DC Television
With The Sandman finale behind them, Gunn and Safran are now fully invested in creating new and exciting content for DC fans. The momentum continues with the second season of Peacemaker, starring John Cena, premiering on HBO Max on August 21, 2025. This follows their recent theatrical release of Gunn’s first solo Superman film featuring David Corenswet, which hit theaters on July 11 of the same year.
Upcoming projects include Lanterns, an intriguing take on the Green Lantern Corps featuring Aaron Pierre as John Stewart and Kyle Chandler as Hal Jordan. The show will present a gripping murder mystery on Earth, styled similarly to True Detective, while exploring the dynamic between the experienced Hal Jordan and the novice John Stewart. This series marks the Lantern Corps’ first major on-screen spotlight since 2011, signaling a fresh start for one of DC’s most iconic groups.
Exploring New Stories in the DC Universe
Among the diverse slate of future series is Paradise Lost, which will delve into the early history of Themyscira, the mysterious island home of the Amazons, long before Diana Prince became Wonder Woman. This show promises a Game of Thrones-inspired drama, focusing on power struggles and political intrigue within Amazonian society.
Additionally, fans can anticipate Waller, centered on Viola Davis’s formidable Amanda Waller, and Booster Gold, which will introduce numerous new characters to the expanding DC Universe. Alongside these live-action projects, multiple animated series are also underway, some aligned with the main DC timeline while others explore alternative narratives, ensuring a steady flow of engaging stories for streaming platforms.
The Significance of This Transition for DC Fans
The conclusion of The Sandman signals the full transition of DC’s television and film properties under the unified vision of James Gunn and Peter Safran. Their leadership aims to create a coherent and compelling universe that balances beloved characters with innovative storytelling. As the new slate of projects begins to roll out, fans can expect a refreshed and tightly interconnected DC Universe, marked by thoughtful character development and creative ambition.
This shift also represents a strategic move to rebuild and expand DC’s on-screen presence following mixed results from earlier phases. With key talent like Gunn and Safran at the helm, the future of the DC Universe appears promising, offering viewers a continuum of fresh narratives and deeper explorations of the lore.
