James Gunn’s DCU vision merges Checkmate and Salvation plotlines. [Image Source: GAMERANTIMAGES]
When Superman premiered in theaters this July, it marked the official launch of the new DC Universe under the leadership of James Gunn and Peter Safran. However, Gunn revealed that the true turning point for the DCU came with the finale of Peacemaker Season 2, which introduced critical elements that will shape the franchise’s future.
The finale not only wrapped up Chris Smith’s story but also unveiled two pivotal concepts from the comics—Checkmate, a secretive agency, and Salvation, a metahuman prison planet. Both will play significant roles in imminent DCU projects, signaling a broader narrative integration across the universe.
It may not seem like it at first, but it is all very connected,
Gunn stated during a virtual press conference.
Formation of Checkmate: Evolution of the 11th Street Kids
At the close of Peacemaker Season 2, Chris Smith’s friends unite not to battle a villain, but to rescue him from his own inner turmoil. This act leads the group to break from official organizations and embark on an independent mission. Armed with Vigilante’s confiscated funds, they establish Checkmate, a crime-fighting outfit that includes Judomaster and former A.R.G.U.S. agents portrayed by Tim Meadows and Sol Rodriguez.
Gunn emphasized his long-standing intention to introduce Checkmate to live-action adaptations. He shared,
Image of: James Gunn
“That was always pretty instrumental in the overarching story that I’m telling in the DCU. I had mapped out what I thought the general story was, and two important aspects to that were Checkmate and especially Salvation.”
For Gunn, Checkmate symbolizes the growth of the 11th Street Kids as they seek to make a positive difference.
“It’s the real culmination of the 11th Street Kids and their desire to be good. I think they’re going to be really, really good at what they do. When we see them next, their circumstances will be a little bit different than the startup that they’re at now,”
he added, highlighting the evolution of this group within the DCU.
Salvation: A Dark New Setting for Dangerous Metahumans
Simultaneously, the A.R.G.U.S. organization, now overseen by Rick Flag Sr. (Frank Grillo), discovers a parallel Earth that becomes Salvation—a secure prison world intended to contain metahumans too hazardous for life on Earth. The concept, pulled directly from the comics, presents a critical setting moving forward.
Gunn expressed his attraction to the idea but also clarified that his depiction of Salvation will diverge from the comic book narrative.
“I like the concept of creating this prison that was absolutely inescapable, but was also a little rash. Because they think it’s not dangerous from their initial tests. But in the comics and in this world, obviously there’s hints of it being dangerous.”
The season finale ends on a suspenseful note with Peacemaker being forcibly taken by Rick Flag Sr. and abandoned on Salvation as punishment for killing Rick Flag Jr., setting the stage for future developments.
Future of Peacemaker: Season 3 Status and Character Importance
Despite the cliffhanger ending, James Gunn indicated that Peacemaker Season 3 is unlikely to arrive soon, as the story will continue through other DCU projects. He remarked,
“This is about the other stories in which this [cliffhanger] will play out. Never say never. But right now, this is about the future of the DCU.”
Whether John Cena’s Peacemaker will appear in upcoming films like Supergirl (2026) or Man of Tomorrow (2028) remains unconfirmed. However, Gunn stressed the character’s significance within his overall narrative vision, saying,
“He’s really important to me. I really love the character. Chris is just incredibly human.”
James Gunn’s Broader Vision for the DC Universe
Gunn has consistently expressed a desire to elevate lesser-known characters into prominent figures who stand alongside icons like Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman. Peacemaker showcases this approach, serving as a successful example of turning an underused character into a compelling lead.
Along with this, Gunn aims to explore deeply human and emotional stories, set against fantastical backdrops. He emphasized the importance of empathy and understanding even in a world rife with conflict, stating,
“We live in this world where everybody thinks that the way to deal with people that think differently than you is to treat them like demons. What a fucking stupid idea. You want to change the world? You want the world to be a better place? You don’t do it by telling somebody they’re evil. It’s just not the way you do it.”
Looking ahead, Gunn plans to hand over creative responsibilities on some projects like Lanterns, Supergirl, Clayface, and The Batman 2 to other creators. Yet, he retains direct control over stories involving Salvation, Superman, Lex Luthor, and Rick Flag Sr., admitting that the workload is tiring but manageable for now.
“That’s the plan right now, at least. I may get so fucking tired that I can’t do it — because I’m pretty tired, but we’ll see!”
Impact of These Developments on the DC Universe’s Future
By weaving Checkmate and Salvation deeply into Peacemaker’s storyline, James Gunn is laying the groundwork for a more interconnected and expansive DCU. These elements not only provide fresh narrative opportunities but also broaden the universe’s scope, allowing lesser-known heroes and complex settings to flourish alongside iconic characters.
The strategic foundation set by the Peacemaker finale promises new directions and conflicts, raising audience anticipation for how these plot threads will emerge in upcoming films and series. Gunn’s continued involvement in key storylines ensures a consistent vision as the DCU evolves across multiple platforms and titles.
