The CW's DC experiment is over, and FOX's Gotham hasn't quite hit the mark. But then came The Penguin, a series that redefined what's possible in DC adaptations. What's next for this revitalized universe?
James Gunn and Peter Safran have crafted a blend of the absurd and the familiar, delivering the kind of bold, boundary-pushing stories that Black Label comic fans have been craving.
Here's a look at the upcoming series and animated projects:
Table of Contents
- Creature Commandos Season 2
- Peacemaker Season 2
- Paradise Lost
- Booster Gold
- Waller
- Lanterns
- Dynamic Duo
Creature Commandos Season 2
Max has officially greenlit a second season of Creature Commandos, following the overwhelmingly positive response to its December 5th premiere. The series, created by James Gunn, received critical acclaim and impressive viewership numbers.
Peter Safran and James Gunn expressed their excitement, pointing to the success of Peacemaker, The Penguin, and Creature Commandos itself as exceeding expectations. This unique DCU series follows a ragtag team of supernatural soldiers led by Rick Flag, including werewolves, vampires, mythological creatures, and a reanimated horror icon. It balances action, horror, and dark humor brilliantly.
With a 7.8 IMDb rating and a 95% Rotten Tomatoes score, the show's success is undeniable. The story explores themes of transformation, camaraderie, and self-discovery, all wrapped in dynamic action and witty dialogue. The cast, featuring Indira Varma, Sean Gunn, Alan Tudyk, Zoë Chao, David Harbour, and Frank Grillo, delivers stellar performances.
Peacemaker Season 2
Release Date: August 2025
John Cena, in a September 2024 interview with Variety, offered insights into Peacemaker Season 2's extended production. While remaining tight-lipped on specifics, he highlighted the careful approach taken by Gunn and Safran, prioritizing quality over speed. The delay, he explained, reflects a deliberate effort to integrate the season seamlessly into the larger DCU narrative.
With filming underway, the season is progressing, though a precise release date remains unconfirmed. This measured approach suggests a more significant role for Peacemaker within the overarching DCU story, rather than a simple sequel.
Paradise Lost
Paradise Lost will explore the origins of Themyscira, the Amazonian homeland, before Wonder Woman. Peter Safran describes the series as having a Game of Thrones-esque feel, focusing on the political intrigue within this all-female society. The series will delve into both the light and dark sides of Themyscirian life.
Currently in the early stages of development, as confirmed by James Gunn, the focus is on refining the script. While no official production start date has been announced, Gunn's mention of "very active development" suggests significant progress. The importance of Wonder Woman's mythology within the DCU ensures continued investment in this project.
Booster Gold
Booster Gold introduces Michael Jon Carter, a time-traveling athlete from the future who uses his knowledge and technology to create a heroic persona in the present day. He's aided by his robotic sidekick, Skeets.
Announced in January 2023, the series is still in development. James Gunn, in an interview on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, confirmed that the script is still being refined to meet the studio's high standards. Production will only begin once the script reaches the desired quality.
Waller
Waller will follow Viola Davis's Amanda Waller, picking up after the events of Peacemaker Season 2. James Gunn has explained that the scheduling is coordinated with the Superman project. The series boasts a talented team, including Watchmen's Christal Henry and Doom Patrol's Jeremy Carver, and will feature returning cast members from Peacemaker.
While details have been scarce, Gunn has confirmed ongoing progress, adhering to the studio's policy of completing the script before setting a release date. Steve Agee, who is reprising his role, has echoed this commitment to quality over speed.
Lanterns
Now an HBO series (originally slated for Max), Lanterns will consist of eight episodes. The series brings together writers Chris Mundy, Damon Lindelof, and Tom King, with James Hawes directing. The cast includes Kyle Chandler as Hal Jordan, Aaron Pierre as John Stewart, and Ulrich Thomsen as Sinestro.
James Gunn has described the series as a grounded, investigative drama similar to True Detective, focusing on a partnership between Hal Jordan and John Stewart as they investigate a murder in the American heartland that uncovers a larger conspiracy. The series will play a significant role in the overall DCU narrative.
Dynamic Duo
DC Studios and Swaybox Studios are collaborating on Dynamic Duo, an animated film exploring the relationship between Dick Grayson and Jason Todd. The film aims for a visually groundbreaking style, potentially rivaling Spider-Verse. The story will focus on the friendship and growing tension between the two former Robins.
The narrative will respect the distinct origins of both characters, highlighting their contrasting paths and the challenges of their unique journeys. Arthur Mintz is directing, utilizing innovative "Momo animation" techniques, with Matthew Aldrich writing the screenplay. James Gunn's announcement highlighted the collaboration with Matt Reeves' production company.
