DC Studios has outlined an expansive slate of films and television series set to unfold through 2028 and beyond, marking a significant strategic shift under co-chairmen and CEOs James Gunn and Peter Safran. This new DC Universe officially commenced in 2024 with the animated series "Creature Commandos," and the studio is now building out a fresh continuity for iconic characters like Superman, Green Lantern, and Batman.
Upcoming DCU Projects
The studio's plans include a mix of live-action and animated projects across various timelines. A new take on Green Lantern, titled "Lanterns," is slated for HBO Max on August 23. This intergalactic police procedural, inspired by "True Detective" and "Slow Horses," stars Kyle Chandler as Hal Jordan and Aaron Pierre as John Stewart. Pierre's Green Lantern will also feature in the upcoming "Superman" sequel, "Man of Tomorrow."
Scheduled for theatrical release on October 23, "Clayface" will offer a new horror-thriller origin story for the Batman villain, with Tom Rhys Harries as Matt Hagen. The film is directed by James Watkins and also features Naomi Ackie and Max Minghella.
2027 and Beyond
"Man of Tomorrow," the sequel to "Superman," is set for a July 9, 2027, theatrical release. Director James Gunn has stated the film will see Superman and Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) forced to cooperate against a greater threat, identified as the alien Brainiac, portrayed by Lars Eidinger. The sequel will see David Corenswet return as Superman, alongside Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, and Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl. Aaron Pierre will also reprise his role as John Stewart/Green Lantern.
"The People v. Gorilla Grodd," a mockumentary-style comedy series, has received an eight-episode order from HBO. The series will follow Jimmy Olsen as he investigates a murder case involving a psychic gorilla accused of patricide, drawing comparisons to "The Office" and "Parks and Recreation." Skyler Gisondo will return as Jimmy Olsen, joined by Jimmy Tatro as Gorilla Grodd. Supporting cast members from "Superman" are also set to appear.
For the Batman universe, "The Batman Part 2" is slated for a February 18, 2028, theatrical release. Directed by Matt Reeves and starring Robert Pattinson, the sequel has faced multiple delays. The film will continue the continuity separate from the main DCU, with Jeffrey Wright, Andy Serkis, and Colin Farrell reprising their roles. Sebastian Stan, Scarlett Johansson, and Charles Dance are also expected to join the cast.
An animated film titled "Dynamic Duo," written by Matthew Aldrich, will explore the origins of Dick Grayson and Jason Todd, the first two Robins. The project is a collaboration between DC Studios and Warner Bros. Pictures Animation.
Undated and Developing Projects
Several projects are in various stages of development with no firm release dates. "The Brave and the Bold" will introduce Damian Wayne, Batman's son, into the DCU, with a story inspired by Grant Morrison's "Batman and Son" run. This film's continuity will be distinct from Matt Reeves' "The Batman" series.
A "Booster Gold" TV series was announced by Gunn, though the original showrunner, David Jenkins, is no longer attached. The project remains in development. "Swamp Thing," a passion project for director James Mangold, is also in the works but will likely be delayed until Mangold completes a Star Wars film.
An animated adaptation of Tom King and Mitch Gerads' "Mister Miracle" limited series is planned, focusing on Scott Free's attempt to escape death itself. Another animated series is in development for "Blue Beetle," focusing on the Jaime Reyes iteration of the character, with Miguel Puga serving as showrunner.
A new "Wonder Woman" movie is in script development, and James Gunn confirmed to EW in June 2025 that a script is actively being written. This project will not carry over continuity from the Gal Gadot-led films. Additionally, an early draft of a live-action "Teen Titans" movie has been completed by screenwriter Ana Nogueira.
Finally, a live-action film potentially featuring Batman and Robin nemeses Bane and Deathstroke is in development, with Matthew Orton writing the script. This project is described by Gunn as a "something kind of like" a Deathstroke and Bane story.