James Gunn has publicly rejected rumors about a $200 million production budget for the upcoming Supergirl movie, clarifying concerns about film spending after a Forbes report suggested otherwise. The discussion has placed the James Gunn Supergirl movie budget in the spotlight as the DC Universe prepares to release its new chapter in 2026.
Reports on the Supergirl Budget and Gunn’s Statement
A recent article from Forbes claimed that the Supergirl feature—starring Milly Alcock as Kara Zor-El—was being made with a $200 million budget, drawing comparison to the Superman production that reportedly cost $225 million. Gunn directly addressed these reports on Threads, dismissing them by saying,
Not even a little bit true.
—James Gunn, Director.
This response came against the backdrop of heightened scrutiny regarding superhero film costs, especially following the financial performance of Gunn’s 2025 Superman film, which took in $616 million and became the year’s top-grossing superhero title.
Background and Production Information
The Supergirl movie will be the DC Universe’s next major release, with Milly Alcock stepping into the role after her earlier cameo as Kara Zor-El in Superman. Set in Chapter 1 of the DCU franchise under the “Gods and Monsters” banner, Supergirl’s story is adapted from the “Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow” comic by Tom King and Bilquis Evely. Craig Gillespie directed the project, while Ana Nogueira is credited for adapting the screenplay. Filming wrapped on May 10, 2025.
Casting news includes Matthias Schoenaerts as Krem of the Yellow Hills, Eve Ridley portraying Ruthye Mary Knolle, and Jason Momoa in the role of Lobo alongside Alcock as Supergirl.
Milly Alcock Discusses Landing the Supergirl Role
During the same Forbes feature, Milly Alcock expressed early doubt about taking on such a major character, sharing,
I thought, ‘What have I done?’ I really struggled to believe I could do it. I even called the director saying, ‘I don’t know how to be that person. I’m just me.’
—Milly Alcock, Actress.
She continued about her process,
eventually realized the only way through was to trust myself.
—Milly Alcock, Actress.
Reflecting on the timing of her casting, Alcock also said,
I always believe life is right on time. Things happen when they’re supposed to, whether you feel ready or not.
—Milly Alcock, Actress.
Upcoming Projects and Release Dates for the DCU
The release of Supergirl will not be the only DC Studios feature in 2026, as Clayface is scheduled to premiere in September. Additionally, Man of Tomorrow—a direct follow-up to Superman—will begin filming next year.
Supergirl is set to debut in theaters on June 26, 2026, as part of a broader expansion of the DC Universe spearheaded by James Gunn and his team. The ongoing discourse around movie budgets and new casting announcements illustrates the unsettled anticipation surrounding the film’s release and its role in shaping the future of superhero cinema.
