James Gunn Blue Beetle fans have reason to stay hopeful as Blue Beetle’s director Ángel Manuel Soto revealed ongoing discussions about the character’s return within James Gunn’s revamped DC Universe (DCU). Although the 2023 Blue Beetle film did not succeed commercially, it was well-received critically and ended with a post-credit scene confirming that the original Blue Beetle, Ted Kord, remains alive. Soto confirmed that conversations about Jaime Reyes’ future have taken place but declined to share detailed information at this stage.
In an exclusive interview with The Direct, Soto said,
“Yeah, there have been conversations, and that’s all I can say. I mean, that’s fair. Conversations have been happening.”
The director also highlighted James Gunn’s enthusiasm for continuing Blue Beetle’s story, assuring fans that
“good things are coming for Jaime Reyes and his family.”
Animated Sequel in Development for Jaime Reyes
In June 2024, Deadline reported that DC Studios is working on an animated Blue Beetle sequel series meant to bring back Xolo Maridueña’s Jaime Reyes. This HBO Max project is set to be directed by Miguel Puga and written by Cristian Martinez. Ángel Manuel Soto and Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer, who directed and wrote the original film, remain involved as executive producers, ensuring continuity with the 2023 movie’s creative vision.
Although official updates on the animated series have been limited, Maridueña previously informed The Direct that the sequel aims for a 2026 release. However, it is uncertain if the timeline remains intact due to the absence of recent news. The animation series is expected to expand the Blue Beetle storyline and introduce Ted Kord to a wider audience, a key development linking it to other DCU projects.
Significance of Ted Kord’s Return and Wider DCU Connections
The post-credit scene in Blue Beetle teased Ted Kord’s survival, which the animated sequel is likely to explore in further detail. Kord’s character connects strongly to Booster Gold, who is also being developed with his own HBO Max series, suggesting interconnected narratives within James Gunn’s DCU. This linkage could elevate the Blue Beetle franchise’s importance as a linchpin for new stories.
Fans had speculated that Jaime Reyes might appear in Peacemaker Season 2, but DC Studios appears to be reserving his return for the animated series. Gunn’s commitment to releasing two films and two streaming series annually within the DCU leaves space for Blue Beetle to reemerge potentially as early as 2026, alongside projects like Supergirl and Clayface movies, and the Lanterns series streaming on HBO Max.
Possible Cast and Expectations for the Animated Series
One major casting element for the animated Blue Beetle involves Ted Kord’s role, which could eventually tie into Booster Gold’s appearances and other DCU content. Artwork for the character in the film bore a strong resemblance to actor Jason Sudeikis, fueling speculation and hope that Sudeikis might embody Kord vocally or live-action in future installments.
The involvement of Ángel Manuel Soto and Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer as executive producers, along with the new creative team, suggests a strong continuity and dedication to expanding the Blue Beetle universe via animation. This approach fits into James Gunn’s vision for an integrated, multi-platform DCU where characters cross between film and television projects.
Looking Ahead: What Blue Beetle’s Return Could Mean for DC Studios
While details remain scarce, the renewed focus on Jaime Reyes and the animated sequel highlight the character’s growing significance in James Gunn’s DCU strategy. Bringing Ted Kord further into the spotlight may strengthen connections across upcoming projects, particularly those involving Booster Gold and other heroes. As DC Studios continues to rebuild its franchise, the fate of Blue Beetle not only excites fans but also symbolizes ongoing creative efforts to unify and expand the cinematic universe.
The tentative plans for Blue Beetle’s return, paired with James Gunn’s vocal support, indicate that the character’s story is far from over. Whether through animation or potential future live-action appearances, Jaime Reyes is positioned to become a more integral part of DC Studios’ evolving slate, potentially revitalizing interest in a hero who blends family values with superhero action.
