James Gunn has offered fresh insight into the future of the DC Universe during a recent Q&A on social media, where he spoke candidly about Peacemaker Season 2 and its direct ties to his upcoming Superman film follow-up, Man of Tomorrow. His remarks shed light on how the television series and films will intertwine while also highlighting his creative approach to character-driven storytelling.
During the discussion, Gunn stressed that the freedom of television allows him to explore character development in ways feature films cannot. “Yes there is no real time restriction. And I like building characters more than anything else in writing and tv is a chance to really do the. Think about it: I’ve spent more pages writing the 11th Street Kids than I did the Guardians,” Gunn explained. He further emphasized that while each DCU project can be viewed independently, Peacemaker Season 2 and Man of Tomorrow are “very very connected.”
This connection is expected to play a pivotal role in the evolving narrative of the DCU. Gunn noted that shifts in characters since their appearance in The Suicide Squad reflect what he calls the Butterfly Effect. “For the same reasons Harcourt and Peacemaker and Auggie are all different. It’s the Butterfly Effect in action. Subtle differences in their lives produces different people,” he said. He also confirmed that Lois Lane will have a meaningful role in Man of Tomorrow, summing up her importance in just two words: “She’s important.”
The director did not shy away from discussing his cast either. Gunn praised Steve Agee’s growth as an actor, remarking, “He’s just gotten to be a better actor. After Cena I think he’s improved as much as anyone this season.” He also addressed fan curiosity about Harcourt and Chris Smith’s relationship, pointing out that their dynamic is influenced by Chris’s decision to kill Rick Flag Jr., adding, “I think you can infer that’s part of it after this episode. They’re best friends.”
Looking ahead, Gunn confirmed his continued interest in bringing lesser-used DC characters to the screen, mentioning Sasha Bordeaux and Ultra-Humanite as figures he has wanted to explore for years. He even allowed a glimpse of his playful side, joking about a hypothetical Peacemaker Broadway musical with music by Foxy Shazam.
Season 2 of Peacemaker premiered on HBO Max on August 21, 2025. The series continues the chaotic yet oddly heartfelt journey of Chris Smith, portrayed by John Cena, as he grapples with his role in the new DC Universe. Produced by DC Studios, the eight-episode season has been widely praised by critics, who consider it a step above the already popular first season. Alongside Cena, the cast includes Danielle Brooks, Freddie Stroma, Jennifer Holland, Steve Agee, Frank Grillo, and Robert Patrick.
Meanwhile, Gunn’s film Man of Tomorrow is scheduled for release on July 9, 2027. Although it features Superman in a central role, Gunn has clarified that it is not a straightforward sequel to Superman (2025). Instead, the film will serve as the seventh installment in DCU’s Chapter One: Gods and Monsters. Promotional material suggests Lex Luthor will be at the forefront, donning his iconic Warsuit, marking a shift to a more direct confrontation with the Man of Steel.
