James Gunn, known as a writer, director, producer, and musician, is currently the co-CEO of DC Studios and creator of HBO’s hit series Peacemaker. His work includes directing the recent Superman revival, and he remains deeply passionate about storytelling, which continues to fuel his multifaceted career.
Gunn emphasized his dedication to storytelling during his appearance on the Howard Stern Show, explaining,
My first love is not movies. It’s just stories,
and added,
I love stories, and I don’t care what form those stories take — whether it’s comic books or movies or video games or television shows — I just love telling stories … and creating characters … and I find it endlessly fascinating.
From B-Movies to Major Studios: Gunn’s Hollywood Journey
Howard Stern, a longtime comic book enthusiast, discussed Gunn’s rise from scripting low-budget films to becoming a major Hollywood figure. Gunn gained recognition by turning Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy comics into a blockbuster film trilogy. Reflecting on his goals for those films, Gunn said,
I liked ‘Star Wars’ and wanted to make a space opera,
showcasing his ambition to craft epic narratives within the superhero genre.
In 2022, Gunn transitioned to leading DC Studios, overseeing the creative direction of its films and TV shows. He works closely with the creators of DC’s iconic characters, valuing their input to shape future projects. Gunn explained,
We pay attention to the guys that created these characters,
and added,
Since I’ve taken over DC, all the comic book writers and artists — I meet with them all the time, they’re invited to all the premieres, [and] … we ask for their advice on what we do with the future storylines and all of that. I like them to be included in all of this.
Unexpected Casting Choice for Peacemaker’s Lead Role
Despite his demanding responsibilities, Gunn continues to develop personal projects like Peacemaker, starring John Cena. When asked about casting, Gunn revealed the role was initially intended for another actor. He said,
It was [written for ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ star] Dave Bautista, who is a good friend of mine,
but Bautista declined to focus on his film career.
Turning to Cena, Gunn shared how their friendship began:
I had always been a fan of John’s, since ‘Trainwreck’ especially — I thought he was so, so funny in that movie that I met with him. We talked. We became instant, instant friends,
and further praised him by saying,
He is a fantastic guy, a fantastic actor.
Gunn expressed strong enthusiasm for the series, stating,
I can’t wait for people to see the rest of the season,
and added,
Really, I think I love the ‘Peacemaker’ show more than anything else I’ve ever done.
Insights Into Upcoming Superman and Related Projects
Gunn also shared details about the upcoming Superman sequel titled Man of Tomorrow. The film will feature David Corenswet as Superman and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, exploring their uneasy alliance against a significant threat. Gunn described the story, saying,
It is a story about Lex Luthor and Superman having to work together, to a certain degree, against a much, much bigger threat,
and added,
It’s as much a Lex movie as it is a Superman movie.
Relating personally to Lex Luthor, Gunn explained the character’s complex feelings:
I relate to the character of Lex Luthor, sadly,
noting how Lex’s world changed when Superman arrived,
Three years ago, before Superman came along, he was considered the greatest guy in the world … and then in one fell swoop this guy comes in — wearing a silly costume, with dimples, a charming smile, and a great chin — and he’s forgotten.
The Man of Tomorrow film is planned for release in 2027, but before then, fans can look forward to a new Supergirl movie. Gunn revealed that editing is already underway on the film starring Milly Alcock as Kara Zor-El, Superman’s Kryptonian cousin. Speaking of Alcock’s performance, Gunn remarked,
[She] might be the best bit of casting I’ve ever done in my entire life. I think she’s absolutely stunning in the movie,
signaling high hopes for this addition to the DC lineup.
Anticipating Further Additions to the DC Universe
Gunn also teased other upcoming projects, including Damon Lindelof’s Green Lantern series and the 2026 film Clayface, written by Mike Flanagan. Explaining the latter, Gunn said,
Clayface is a Batman foe in the comics,
and described it as
a hardcore, R-rated body-horror film but within the same universe as Superman.
Reflecting on Career Milestones and Personal Fulfillment
The extensive discussion between Gunn and Howard Stern ranged across various topics, from lesser-known DC characters to personal influences behind Superman. Before concluding, Gunn shared a meaningful revelation about his aspirations:
10 years ago, I told my publicist [there] are two things on my bucket list, only two things … I want to be on the cover of Cigar Aficionado — which I did [several] years ago — and I want to be on the Howard Stern Show. So, now you’ve made my bucket list. I’m done. If I die tomorrow I’m perfectly fine, and I appreciate being here.
Stern responded warmly,
It’s an honor to have you on,
highlighting the mutual respect between the two.
Peacemaker Returns for a Second Season on HBO Max
The Peacemaker series, featuring John Cena in the lead role, is currently airing its second season on HBO Max, with new episodes released Thursdays at 9 p.m. Eastern Time. As James Gunn continues to shape the DC Studios future, his combined efforts as a storyteller and executive promise to guide the DC Universe into an exciting new era of films and television.
