James Gunn, known for his work with all three Guardians of the Galaxy movies, has left the MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe) to join the DCU (Detective Comics Universe). As of November 2022, Gunn is the co-chairman and co-CEO of DC Studios alongside Peter Safran. He had already worked on DC projects such as writing and directing The Suicide Squad and writing the series Peacemaker, but his definitive start with the DCU’s new creative direction was in November. His first official project as co-chairman and CEO was Creator Commandos, which aired on December 5, 2024.

Now that Gunn is co-chairman and CEO, he is resetting the DCU. All of the previous movies that were by Zach Snyder or anyone else are no longer canon to this new one. Except for Blue Beetle, which Gunn had said that he fits nicely into his new stories, but it is still up in the air for decisions. So far, Gunn has done his version of Superman, starring David Corenswet, which was released summer of this year . Superman included new characters who have not gotten as much recognition in this universe, like Guy Gardner (Nathan Fillion), Mr. Terrific (Edi Gathegi), Hawkgirl (Isabela Merced), Krypto the super dog, and Elemental (Anthony Carrigan). This movie is the first big start for Gunn’s new DCU. He has already announced a release date for Supergirl, Superman: Man of Tomorrow, and estimated dates for The Lanterns, Clayface, Teen Titans, Batman, Swamp Thing, and Booster Gold. 

There have already been casting announcements for these new projects, such as Alan Tyduk as Clayface, Kyle Chandler, Aaron Pierre, John Stewart, and Nathan Fillion as The Lanterns, Robert Pattinson is currently still Batman, Milly Alcock as Supergirl, and Jason Momoa has been cast as Lobo, who will be the main antagonist in Supergirl. However, there is no official cast for Booster Gold, Swamp Thing, or Teen Titans. 

At the moment, Gunn’s DC projects have reached over 75% on Rotten Tomatoes, which makes them all certified fresh! The new DCU has gained a big following from dedicated DC fans and is currently bringing in new fans with new characters and content for newer generations to love as much as the older, dedicated fans.