Amid recent references to Martians in both Superman and Peacemaker, speculation continues that Martian Manhunter, one of the original Justice League members, might soon make his debut in James Gunn’s DC Universe (DCU). With Gunn’s DCU expanding rapidly through diverse characters and interconnected stories, hints suggest that this iconic alien hero could be on the horizon.
The Origins and Powers of Martian Manhunter
Martian Manhunter, also known as J’onn J’onzz, first appeared in Detective Comics #225 in November 1955, created by Joseph Samachson and artist Joe Certa. This Martian was accidentally brought to Earth via a teleportation beam devised by Dr. Saul Erdel. When Dr. Erdel succumbed to the shock of J’onzz’s arrival, the Martian found himself stranded on Earth. To survive, he assumed the human identity of John Johns, a detective in the fictional town of Middletown, USA, while operating covertly as the superhero Martian Manhunter.
J’onn possesses remarkable abilities common to his Martian race, including shapeshifting, flight, superhuman strength, mind reading, and intangibility. Yet, his primary vulnerability remains fire. Although created in the mid-1950s, Martian Manhunter rose to prominence as a founding member of the Justice League by the early 1960s, often gaining more exposure through team comics rather than solo titles. His mythology includes close ties to his Martian heritage, including a brother, Ma’alefa’ak, who often emerges as an antagonist. This complex background has made J’onn a nuanced figure within DC lore.
Historical Representations of Martian Manhunter Across Media
Martian Manhunter’s most recognizable portrayal is perhaps his role as a Justice League founding member in the acclaimed 2001 animated series and its sequel, Justice League Unlimited. Voiced by Carl Lumbly, this version introduced many fans to J’onn’s origins and heroic stature. The character has since appeared in multiple animated series such as Young Justice, The Batman, Batman: Brave and the Bold, and Kite Man: Hell Yeah!.
In live-action, Martian Manhunter’s history has been less consistent. David Ogden Stiers was the first to portray him in a canceled Justice League pilot, while Phil Morris had a recurring role in Smallville. The character achieved significant recognition in the Supergirl series, played by David Harewood. Initially masquerading as Hank Henshaw, Harewood’s Martian Manhunter became an important mentor and father figure to Supergirl, transitioning from the head of the Department of Extraterrestrial Affairs to a detective role. Notably, Carl Lumbly provided the voice for the character’s father in the same series, a casting choice that delighted fans familiar with his animated performance.
In films, Martian Manhunter’s presence has been largely limited or unrealized. Hugh Keays-Byrne was set to portray him in George Miller’s ultimately canceled Justice League: Mortal project. Zack Snyder introduced a surprising retroactive reveal in his cut of Justice League, establishing that General Calvin Swanwick, previously appearing in Man of Steel and Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice, was secretly the Martian Manhunter. This retcon explained the character’s absence from the final battle and was not part of the original portrayal in Man of Steel, as actor Harry Lennox had never performed with that intention.
Hints Toward Martian Manhunter’s Role in James Gunn’s DC Universe
James Gunn’s DCU draws inspiration from 1980s comics, including Justice League of America and the works of writer John Ostrander, which often featured Martian Manhunter prominently. Many upcoming DCU titles, such as Booster Gold, Swamp Thing, and Peacemaker, directly reference the rich storytelling from this era. These stories helped shape Gunn’s perspective as a teenage and young adult reader.
In Superman, there are two subtle references to Martian Manhunter that have raised curiosity. One concerns the Hammer of Borovia, a fictional cookie beloved by J’onn during the Justice League of America comics, which is briefly mentioned as destroying a building. Another moment comes when Lex Luthor remarks,
Tall, dark, and martian aren’t my thing,
a line followed by Superman’s correction, subtly underscoring the existence of Martians in the DCU.
Similarly, Peacemaker Season 2, Episode 3, titled Another Rick Up My Sleeve, includes an intriguing reference to Martians, suggesting they have one eye. This detail aligns with a more recent design of Martian Manhunter depicted in the comic Absolute Martian Manhunter illustrated by Deniz Camp and Javier Rodriguez. Though this comic was published after filming, these layers give the impression of deliberate foreshadowing by Gunn and his team.
Possible Future Appearances and Storyline Implications
Where Martian Manhunter might first appear in the DCU remains speculative. The animated film Superman: Man of Tomorrow depicted J’onn alongside the Last Son of Krypton, making the upcoming Man of Tomorrow movie a logical place for his introduction. Given his shapeshifting ability, Martian Manhunter could also be disguised within any project, enhancing his mystery by remaining incognito until the right moment to reveal his identity.
Superman’s remarks in recent DCU entries imply that he is the first openly known alien, suggesting that Martian Manhunter has not yet revealed himself publicly. This reinforces the idea that J’onn may still be working covertly on Earth, possibly as a detective in human form, aligning with his long-established dual identity.
James Gunn appears to be setting the stage for a Justice League that resembles the animated series cast familiar to mainstream audiences. The current roster includes David Corenswet as Superman, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, and the upcoming introduction of Aaron Pierre as John Stewart/Green Lantern. With Batman and Wonder Woman feature films underway, Martian Manhunter may be one of the final puzzle pieces needed to complete the Justice League’s live-action lineup.
These Martian nods may be more than Easter eggs—they could indicate James Gunn’s intention to weave one of DC’s most compelling characters into the fabric of his new universe sooner rather than later. As the DCU continues to expand, fans should remain alert for more signs of J’onn J’onzz’s emergence from the shadows.
