Fans noticed several DC shows were recently removed from HBO Max, raising questions about James Gunn DC removals amid his efforts in launching the new DC Universe (DCU). As co-CEO of DC Studios, Gunn is developing fresh stories spotlighting lesser-known heroes, sparking curiosity about the platform’s evolving DC content.
HBO Max pulled two episodes from a curated section dedicated to DC characters coming to the new DCU. Over the years, HBO Max has hosted a vast collection of DC shows reflecting the publisher’s long comic book history. Although streaming libraries regularly change, comments from Gunn have influenced perceptions about current programming availability.
Currently, HBO Max’s Characters Coming to the DCU includes select animated episodes featuring heroes like Clayface, Supergirl, and Lobo—all slated for upcoming appearances in the live-action DCU. This section originally contained episodes from several series, such as Batman: The Animated Series, The Batman, Justice League, Justice League Unlimited, and Young Justice, chosen to highlight characters soon entering the new shared universe.
However, since the section’s release, HBO Max removed two particular episodes: Titans Season 2, Episode 13 titled Nightwing, and Justice League Season 2, Episode 3 featuring the villain Amazo. This removal prompted speculation about whether these changes were coordinated by James Gunn and DC Studios management.
James Gunn’s Response to the HBO Max Content Changes
James Gunn addressed the situation directly on X (formerly Twitter), expressing uncertainty about the section’s origin and downplaying its importance. He stated,
“I don’t know what that is supposed to be or who put that up on the platform, but its meaningless.”
— James Gunn, DC Studios Co-CEO
This statement suggests that the streaming lineup’s current state does not reflect DC Studios’ official direction and that the content removals are not a strategic move tied to the new DCU’s rollout. Gunn’s focus remains on the coordinated build-up of the franchise through carefully planned content, rather than reacting to every change on streaming platforms.
Ongoing DCU Developments and Character Introductions
In his role as co-CEO alongside Peter Safran, James Gunn is overseeing an ambitious slate that already includes projects like Creature Commandos Season 1 and the newly released Superman series, with weekly episodes of Peacemaker Season 2 continuing the narrative expansion. These initiatives mark the beginning of a carefully crafted DCU that aims to refresh and expand the superhero roster.
The future arrivals of characters such as Nightwing are still in development, with Gunn indicating that Nightwing may not appear until after certain key projects launch. Specifically, The Brave and the Bold will be the first Batman-led story in this new continuity, featuring two different Robins—Damian Wayne and potentially Dick Grayson through the character Clayface. Whether Dick Grayson will become Nightwing in this timeline has yet to be confirmed.
Regarding the Justice League, Gunn clarified that the iconic superhero team has not yet formed within the DCU. Instead, the current primary team is the Justice Gang, introduced in the Superman series. This means villains connected to the Justice League, like Amazo, are unlikely to appear soon as the universe lays the groundwork for future ensemble stories.
What Fans Can Expect as the DCU Grows
With multiple projects underway but many unannounced, James Gunn and DC Studios will likely update fans when characters and teams approach their official debuts. This cautious approach allows the studio to build a coherent and connected universe, rather than releasing content sporadically or prematurely.
The removal of certain HBO Max episodes underscores the transitional phase DC content is currently experiencing on streaming platforms, reflecting adjustments aligned with the new creative visions. Fans interested in upcoming DCU developments should anticipate gradual reveals and new storytelling directions as DC Studios continues to expand its franchise under Gunn’s leadership.
It’s meaningless pic.twitter.com/l8IuYh5vpy
— DC Film News (@DCFilmNews) September 19, 2025
