James Gunn Reveals When Superman Would Return After DCU Debut Movie

James Gunn recently revealed that Superman will return sooner than expected after his solo film. In a recent interview, he confirmed the character’s next appearance could come in under two years, clarified what that might involve, and addressed how future DC projects could include the iconic hero in various forms.
Superman to return in ‘less than a couple of years’ after his own movie
In an interview with Phase Hero, upon being asked about Superman’s next appearance, James Gunn said, “A couple of years. Well, no, you might see him… You’ll see him before then,” He then clarified, “Yeah, you’ll see the character before then,” suggesting the return may not involve David Corenswet directly but rather the character of Superman in another format.
Corenswet leads the upcoming Superman film, set to release on July 11, 2025, as part of DCU Chapter One: Gods and Monsters. The film reboots the character with Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho, and Sara Sampaio as Eve Teschmacher.
AdvertisementAdvertisement#«Rmekkr8lb2m7nfblbH1» iframe AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R16ekkr8lb2m7nfblbH1» iframeDC has not confirmed a direct sequel, but Superman may appear in other upcoming projects. These could include Peacemaker Season 2, set to release in August 2025, and the Supergirl movie, scheduled for 2026. Supergirl seems highly likely as she shares a major connection with Superman, and David Corenswet is already rumored to have a cameo in it.
Gunn also referenced ongoing DC animated content, suggesting the character might appear outside live-action. Currently, DC is working on several animated shows, including My Adventures with Green Lantern and DC Super Powers.
In a separate interview with ComicBook, Gunn discussed Superman’s hypno glasses — an often-overlooked comic book element. He said, “It’s kind of been forgotten, but that’s from the comics.” Gunn credited comics writer Tom King for reminding him about the glasses’ canonical hypnotic abilities, as introduced in Superman (Vol. 1) #330 (1978). Gunn added that Corenswet “looks the most different as Clark Kent to Superman, even more so than Chris Reeve.”

James Gunn's revelation on when fans can expect Superman to join the DCU after its inaugural movie hints at an exciting era where fan-favorite heroes will rise again, fostering a sense of nostalgia and anticipation for future intergalactic adventures.

James Gunn's reveal of Superman’s anticipated return following the debut movie in DCU hints at a silver-screen supersized comeback grounded firmly within his innovative DC Universe rebuild, teasing fans with an exciting future to look forward.

The anticipated return of Superman after the DC Universe's inaugural film, as hinted by James Gunn in his recent revelation, highlights a significant fan anticipation set to shatter expectations for both newcomers and veteran DCU enthusiasts alike.