James Gunn recently revealed a quirky teaser hinting at the Martian Manhunter’s place in the DC Universe (DCU) through a detailed mock marketing setup for Chocos, a fictional cookie brand known from DC Comics. The photos, posted in early 2026, display an elaborate corporate-style campaign, fueling speculation about future DCU projects and the possible inclusion of this fan-favorite character.
The Origins and Significance of Chocos in DC Lore
In DC Comics, Chocos are a parody of Oreo cookies and serve as Martian Manhunter’s enduring weakness. Created by Keith Giffen and J.M. DeMatteis for Justice League International, these cookies have been used to add humor and depth to J’onn J’onzz’s character, showing his addiction and quirky personality traits. The snack’s presence extends beyond comics, appearing in animated series like Justice League Unlimited and Young Justice, as well as in the Injustice video games. James Gunn’s promotion of Chocos suggests a deeper embrace of these lesser-known elements in the new DCU.
Details of the Chocos Marketing Display in Gunn’s Photos
The images James Gunn shared reveal:
- Marketing plans labeled “First Quarter – Marketing Strategy / Market Research” focused on Chocos
- Various charts and graphs illustrating cookie sales performance
- Milk bottles branded with the Chocos logo
- Product packaging mimicking Oreos, titled “So-oh-ohs”
- A display board showcasing different cookie flavors and statistics
- A large mural depicting giant cookies splashing into milk, parodying classic advertisements
While it remains unclear whether this setup is a promotional stunt, a set piece, or a playful Easter egg, its level of detail suggests it could be a meaningful hint about forthcoming storylines or characters in the DCU.
Speculation Grows: Is Martian Manhunter Joining the DCU Lineup?
The most discussed question is whether these Chocos hints mean Martian Manhunter is slated to appear soon in the DCU. Although James Gunn has yet to officially confirm the character’s involvement in early DCU releases, the specificity of this tease implies intentionality. It also signals that the tone of the new DCU may embrace Justice League International’s mix of humor and quirky character moments, consistent with Gunn’s known style.
The character could show up in the upcoming Supergirl series or more likely in Gunn’s Superman follow-up, Man of Tomorrow, adding a humorous dimension to the lineup with J’onn’s noted cookie obsession. Fans will remember that Harry Lennix portrayed Martian Manhunter in Zack Snyder’s Justice League, where his character was revealed to be General Swanwick, a role Snyder adapted after being unable to use Green Lantern John Stewart.
What This Means for DCU Fans and Future Projects
This playful marketing campaign reflects a hopeful and curious phase for DCU enthusiasts eager to see fresh takes on classic characters. James Gunn’s choice to spotlight a deep-cut joke like Chocos suggests the new universe will blend humor with lore-rich storytelling. Such teases build anticipation while remaining cautious about what is yet to come, leaving fans to wonder how far Gunn will lean into the more eccentric corners of the DC mythos as he shapes the future of the franchise.
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) January 27, 2026
