James Gunn is reportedly set to leave his role overseeing the DC Universe (DCU) as the sale of Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) approaches, according to sources close to the situation. The ongoing struggles of DC projects such as the underperforming Superman film and the disappointing reception of Peacemaker Season 2 have intensified scrutiny of Gunn’s leadership and the future direction of the DCU.
Current State of DCU Projects Under James Gunn’s Leadership
Superman’s poor box office performance, especially compared to Zack Snyder’s Man of Steel, signals a troubling trend in the DCU’s global appeal. Additionally, Peacemaker Season 2 failed to attract a strong fanbase, and other shows like Creature Commandos struggled to gain traction, missing Nielsen rankings. Gunn’s recent statements about having free rein with DC appeared disconnected from fan expectations, particularly as his claim that Peacemaker Season 2 was a direct sequel to the Superman movie has been contested.
Sources suggest Gunn’s approach to the DCU has created division among fans, contributing to the franchise’s faltering momentum. It has been observed that Gunn is prioritizing projects involving close associates and family members, possibly in anticipation of his imminent exit once the company changes hands.
Behind the Scenes: Leadership Changes Expected with WBD Acquisition
Insiders reveal that if David Ellison of Skydance and Paramount acquires Warner Bros. Discovery, Mike De Luca will assume control of the DCU, signaling a fresh start. De Luca, alongside Pam Abdy, recently renewed contracts with Warner Bros. amid the sale rumors, positioning them as leading candidates under Ellison’s ownership. WBD CEO David Zaslav is reportedly installing executives favored by Ellison to manage the transition.
Gunn has shifted focus away from his initially planned Gods and Monsters storyline, instead emphasizing the Superman Family saga. This pivot is believed to reflect Gunn’s awareness of limited time before the sale and waning studio support for his vision, as filmmakers reportedly resist his interference and prefer to pursue their own creative angles. Hollywood directors appear increasingly reluctant to engage with DC projects, as well as Marvel and Star Wars properties, favoring original content instead.
What Lies Ahead for DC and the Role of Key Figures
Should the sale proceed with David Ellison at the helm, sources confirm Gunn’s departure is imminent. Ellison’s connections, including ties to former President Donald Trump, add a political dimension to the anticipated shift in leadership. With Peacemaker Season 3 canceled, Gunn’s promises of a family-friendly DC approach have come under intense criticism.
“lied about a family friendly approach to DC.”
Another insider noted,
“nobody in the building knows his status except for Gunn himself,”
adding that
“his action speak as to what might happen.”
Mike De Luca is expected to lead the DCU through a complete reboot. Previously, he advocated reviving Zack Snyder’s DCEU, including bringing back Henry Cavill as Superman and Ben Affleck as Batman, with plans for a Batman Multiverse. However, those plans were abandoned after Gunn took control, signaling a departure from the Snyder era.
Mike De Luca’s Vision and Impact on DC’s Future
De Luca’s credentials are notable: he discovered screenwriter David S. Goyer, famed for Blade, Man of Steel, and Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight Trilogy, and has overseen major franchises including The Conjuring and Minecraft adaptations. Industry insiders praise him as a knowledgeable cinephile with deep understanding of comic book culture and historical trends.
“He knows cinema, history and global movements, AND is a die hard comic book fan,”
a source stated.
Though De Luca plans to launch a new DC Universe, insiders indicate the Snyderverse will not return, as most stakeholders have moved on. The new approach is rumored to emphasize classic DC themes, potentially bringing back familiar slogans like
Truth, Justice, and the American Way.
Broader Context: Industry Trends and Internal Dynamics
The reported turbulence within DC reflects wider trends in Hollywood, where visionary directors increasingly prefer original stories over franchise work. Gunn’s controversial run, perceived as divisive and alienating by fans, has only deepened internal friction. Industry watchers see Gunn’s actions as a final phase before the sale, with the current slate serving more as transitional content aimed at maintaining DC’s market presence rather than building a lasting universe.
The possibility of Universal (part of Comcast) remaining a contender for the WBD acquisition adds further uncertainty to the outcome and direction of DC’s future projects.
Implications for Fans and the Future of the DC Universe
James Gunn’s impending exit marks a significant turning point for the DCU amid the Warner Bros. Discovery sale. Fans can expect a reset under Mike De Luca’s leadership, with new creative strategies and potentially a more traditional tone. This shift may distance DC from Gunn’s divisive and experimental narratives, aiming to rebuild fan trust and global appeal.
The sale and subsequent leadership changes will likely reshape not only DC’s storytelling but also the broader landscape of superhero franchises, influencing industry trends toward originality and stability in franchise management.
