James Gunn recently addressed questions about whether he profits from Baby Groot merchandise, the character voiced by Vin Diesel and beloved by fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Baby Groot, also known as Groot II, originated after the original Groot’s sacrifice in the 2014 film Guardians of the Galaxy. Since then, Baby Groot has become a highly popular figure across MCU projects and related merchandise.
During an appearance on The Howard Stern Show, Gunn made it clear that he does not receive any royalties from the sales of Baby Groot merchandise.
We created the character Baby Groot, you know, I drew that character,
Gunn explained.
I don’t make any of that money in the same way that comic-book artists don’t.
Reactions to Gunn’s Remarks on Merchandising Income
The revelation surprised Stern, who responded with disbelief after learning that Gunn earned no revenue from merchandising.
Wait a second, you don’t get a piece of the action on the merchandising on Baby Groot?
Stern asked. Following Gunn’s confirmation, Stern expressed his shock while questioning the arrangement, indicating he expected Gunn to have financial benefits from the character’s merchandise.
Gunn went on to clarify that although he does not earn from merchandising, he is compensated generously for his work on the Guardians of the Galaxy sequels.
I’m incredibly well paid. Guardians 2 and 3, especially Guardians 3.
He emphasized,
I am incredibly well paid up front and on the back end. I make back-end dollars too. I just don’t make money off merchandising.
Background on Groot and His Popularity in Marvel
The character Groot was created by Stan Lee, Larry Lieber, and Jack Kirby and first appeared in Marvel Comics’ Tales to Astonish #13 in 1960. However, it was Groot’s introduction into the MCU that greatly increased his popularity. Beyond the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy, Groot has featured in major MCU films including Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame.
While Vin Diesel has been the primary voice of Groot in these films, Fred Tatasciore took on the role for the animated series What If…?. Baby Groot’s appeal has made him a fan favorite, leading to widespread merchandise demand despite James Gunn receiving no merchandising earnings.
Implications of Merchandising Revenue Structures
James Gunn’s comments highlight the common industry practice where creators, including comic-book artists, often do not receive direct profits from merchandise sales. Even though Gunn has earned well for his directing, the lack of merchandising revenue shows a distinct separation between creative credit and financial gain in franchise marketing. As Baby Groot remains an iconic figure within the MCU, the merchandising profits continue to benefit rights holders rather than individual creators like Gunn.
