James Gunn, co-CEO of DC Studios and the primary creative force behind the early phase of the DC Universe (DCU), will not be credited as a writer or director on any projects scheduled for 2026. Since taking leadership, Gunn has shaped the DCU’s Gods and Monsters phase, writing films such as The Suicide Squad and television series like Peacemaker. His absence from the 2026 lineup marks a notable shift as new creative talents step in to shape the future of the franchise.
Although Gunn remains actively involved as a producer to ensure consistency across the universe, the 2026 slate will be driven by fresh voices, signaling a diversification of storytelling within the DCU. Gunn is confirmed to return to writing duties with Man of Tomorrow in 2027, but the upcoming year will showcase projects with new perspectives.
Key DCU Projects Scheduled for 2026 Without Gunn’s Writing or Direction
The 2026 DCU slate features three major projects, each distinct in style and storytelling approach, none of which involve Gunn as writer or director. These projects highlight the expanding creative landscape of the universe.
Supergirl’s Debut: A Gritty Cosmic Origin Story
Supergirl is set to be the flagship theatrical release in 2026, premiering on June 26. The film draws from the acclaimed comic series by Tom King and Bilquis Evely, following Kara Zor-El as she emerges from her cousin’s shadow to embark on a complex journey fueled by cosmic revenge and personal trauma. This is a departure from traditional portrayals, emphasizing Kara’s isolation and power.
Craig Gillespie, known for his work on character-driven films like I, Tonya and Cruella, will direct, promising a distinctive visual and emotional style. The screenplay is written by Ana Nogueira, an actress and playwright who had previously been associated with an earlier Supergirl project under Warner Bros.’ prior management. Her deep understanding of Kara’s psychological struggles convinced Gunn and Peter Safran to retain her for this new version, focused on a more mature and introspective narrative.
Lanterns: A Crime Drama with Superhero Elements
On the television front, Lanterns is the sole live-action HBO series planned for 2026, aiming for a summer release. Unlike conventional space operas traditionally linked to the Green Lantern mythos, this series offers a grounded, mystery-driven story akin to True Detective. It centers on older Hal Jordan and younger John Stewart as they unravel a dark and ancient secret hidden in the heartland of America—an element teased by Gunn as crucial to the broader DCU storyline.
The series is guided by showrunner Chris Mundy, acclaimed for his work on Ozark, and includes Damon Lindelof, creator of Watchmen and The Leftovers, known for his mastery of complex mystery narratives. Comic book writer Tom King, whose work has influenced the DCU’s direction, is also involved. The cast stars Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre, aiming to deliver a mature, atmospheric procedural that revolves around the universe’s most powerful rings.
Clayface: A Psychological Horror Take on a Classic Character
Completing the 2026 slate is Clayface, set for release on September 11. This film veers away from previous campy depictions of the character Matt Hagen, instead presenting a psychological horror tragedy. The story follows Hagen, a struggling actor whose pursuit of fame leads to a horrifying transformation after an accident.
Directed by James Watkins, known for intense films such as Speak No Evil and Eden Lake, Clayface is set to introduce a darker, more visceral tone to the DCU. The screenplay is a collaboration between Mike Flanagan, creator of The Haunting of Hill House and Midnight Mass, who focuses on the emotional depth of monstrous characters, and Hossein Amini, known for the neo-noir film Drive, who contributes a refined narrative structure. Together, they craft a standalone horror epic that ties into the larger universe while maintaining its unique identity.
The Strategic Importance of Gunn’s 2026 Absence
James Gunn’s decision to step away from writing and directing for the 2026 DCU lineup could initially raise concerns among fans who appreciate his distinct storytelling style. However, this move is a deliberate strategy to avoid creative stagnation and burnout, challenges that have affected other franchise leaders who dominated their worlds too rigidly.
By making space for new writers and directors, Gunn ensures the DCU remains dynamic and expansive rather than repetitive. This change allows him, as co-CEO, to focus on the overall health and direction of the broader Warner Bros. Discovery superhero properties without micromanaging every creative detail.
This shift also addresses critics worried that the DCU would become a “Gunn-verse” flooded with niche characters and pop culture references at the expense of variety. Entrusting projects to filmmakers like Craig Gillespie, Mike Flanagan, and Damon Lindelof demonstrates the studio’s commitment to diverse genres within the franchise, ranging from cosmic epics and psychological horror to grounded crime dramas.
Though Gunn is not involved in the scripting or direction of these projects, he remains an executive producer, overseeing the narrative continuity and tonal unity across the universe. This balance allows the DCU to grow as a living, evolving entity featuring multiple creative voices.
“We were so impressed by her specific voice and understanding of Kara’s internal trauma that we scrapped the old plans but kept Nogueira to write this new, definitive version.” ? Peter Safran, DC Studios Co-CEO
“Flanagan is known for focusing on the humanity of monsters, suggesting that Matt Hagen’s story will be as heartbreaking as it is terrifying.” ? James Watkins, Clayface Director
