James Gunn, co-CEO of DC Studios, marked this year’s Thanksgiving by sharing memories of the first Superman float at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and expressing gratitude to fans. The celebration took place as Gunn acknowledged the history and legacy of Superman during an iconic American holiday, tying in the James Gunn Superman Thanksgiving Parade theme for readers.
Honoring Superman’s Parade Legacy
To commemorate Thanksgiving and the annual parade, Gunn posted a photo on his X account of the original Superman float introduced at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in 1940. Alongside the image, he offered thanks to comic book readers and the loyal supporters of DC Studios over recent years.
“Today I’m grateful for all the fans out there who have supported all of us at DC Studios over the past three years (!),”
James Gunn, co-CEO, DC Studios
This message was accompanied by further recognition of the enjoyment Gunn finds in his role, crediting fans for enhancing the creative process.
“This job is fun in and of itself, telling new stories with some of the world’s most iconic characters — but you make it all the better with your love, support, laughter and insights,”
James Gunn, co-CEO, DC Studios
Recent and Upcoming Works in the DC Universe
Gunn recently experienced success with the release of Superman, the first feature film in his reimagined DC Universe, starring David Corenswet as the Man of Steel. As writer and director, Gunn set the stage for a sequel, Man of Tomorrow, which plans to reunite audiences with Corenswet’s Clark Kent, Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor, and introduce the classic villain Brainiac to the franchise. The sequel is anticipated to build on the renewed vision for DC’s cinematic universe.
Parade Balloons and Superhero Representations
This year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade did not include a Superman balloon in its lineup. Among the 34 balloons showcased in 2025, the only comic book superhero featured was Marvel’s Spider-Man. New balloons highlighted other well-known characters from movies and games, such as Mario, Pac-Man, Buzz Lightyear, and Derpy Tiger from Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters, reflecting the growing presence of video game characters and pop culture icons.
Celebrities and Performances Illuminate the Parade
Notable celebrities and performers at the parade included Meg Donnelly, Teyana Taylor, Conan Gray, Cynthia Erivo, and Darlene Love. Additionally, EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami joined forces to portray the fictional girl group Huntr/X, delivering a live performance of the track Golden from KPop Demon Hunters. The event continued to blend music, television, and film, showcasing both established and emerging talent.
What Lies Ahead for DC Studios and Superman
James Gunn’s Superman is currently streaming on HBO Max, while the anticipated sequel, Man of Tomorrow, is set for a July 9, 2027 theatrical release. Prior to that, DC Studios plans to debut Supergirl, directed by Craig Gillespie, and Clayface, helmed by James Watkins, in 2026. These projects aim to expand the DC Universe and capitalize on the momentum from recent successes. As Gunn looks back at Superman’s historical impact at the Thanksgiving parade, the future promises new stories, characters, and moments for fans worldwide.
First Superman float in the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade, 1940. Today I'm grateful for all the fans out there who have supported all of us at DC Studios over the past three years (!) This job is fun in and of itself, telling new stories with some of the world's most iconic… pic.twitter.com/3tTUsd86jX
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) November 27, 2025
