The upcoming Superman film, under the creative direction of James Gunn, originally featured a deeply personal cameo that ultimately did not make the final version. The James Gunn Superman cameo involving his cat was removed during the last stage of editing to better align with the movie‘s pacing and focus.
Adjustments in Superman’s Production Lead to a Missing Family Cameo
From the start, Superman was seen as a crucial installment for the new DCU, with its production involving many changes as creative choices were refined and reactions to early trailers were considered. The film carries significant weight, following the conclusion of the DCEU timeline, and there was heightened anticipation from fans eager for a classic superhero experience. These factors put pressure on James Gunn, the film’s creator and DC Studios co-CEO, to perfect each element of the movie, including what to keep and what to omit.
Among the elements trimmed from the final cut was a cameo that was especially meaningful to Gunn himself. As the film sought to balance the central plot with several side stories due to its expansive ensemble cast, certain moments had to be sacrificed to create a focused, compelling narrative. Gunn addressed this in a recent public post when reflecting on what was excised, particularly a subplot involving Steve Lombard, the Daily Planet sports columnist, and Lombard’s pet.
“A moment where Steve Lombard cried over his cat, Penelope, was cut from the film due to pacing (as was sadly my cat Emily’s cameo).”
—James Gunn, Creator and Director
The scene in question would have showcased Steve Lombard’s emotional side through his relationship with his cat, Penelope. Although Lombard’s affection for his pet remains evident in the scenes left in the movie, the specific moment featuring him mourning Penelope was removed for pacing reasons, as was a brief planned appearance by Gunn’s own cat, Emily.
Pacing and Narrative Drive Behind the Decision
The decision to cut the animal-focused moments, including the James Gunn Superman cameo, is tied closely to the need for clear, dynamic storytelling. Although showing Lombard’s vulnerability might have added subtle depth to his character, Gunn stated that the pacing took precedence. The story still reveals much about Lombard’s personal life and relationships even without this additional animal-centric scene, keeping the film’s narrative momentum intact.
Optimizing pacing was especially crucial, since Superman launches the new DCU and needed to meet high expectations, both critically and among long-term audiences. Trimming out even a heartfelt, personal cameo can sometimes be the right decision if it benefits the overall flow and emotional impact of the movie. This approach reflects Gunn’s commitment to ensuring that each story beat serves the film’s greater purpose and maintains a unified tone throughout.
Reception, Impact, and Hopes for Future Inclusions
Following Superman’s release, the film went on to secure the spot as 2025’s top-grossing superhero movie, with positive reactions from critics and fans indicating that the careful editing choices were justified. The film’s well-balanced pacing and narrative clarity appear to have resonated with audiences, proving the importance of tough editorial decisions even when personal touches must be set aside.
While fans missed the opportunity to spot Gunn’s cat, Emily, in the final cut, the resounding success of the film leaves the door open for future possibilities. With the DCU continuing to expand and introduce new stories, there is hope that such personal cameos or smaller details might find their place down the line, allowing beloved moments that were once removed to return in a context that serves the broader story as effectively as possible.
A moment where Steve Lombard cried over his cat, Penelope, was cut from the film due to pacing (as was sadly my cat Emily’s cameo). #Superman pic.twitter.com/VZkd3Wkoss
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) November 15, 2025
