Director James Gunn has officially refuted rumors that actor Matthew Lillard will portray Barry Allen, also known as The Flash, in the upcoming DC Universe film Man of Tomorrow. The speculation began after an unofficial insider account on X suggested Lillard's character would have a biracial family and interact with key Daily Planet staff.
Gunn responded directly to a fan's question on Threads, stating simply, "No," to the possibility of Lillard playing The Flash. This rumor gained traction partly due to perceived thematic connections with the HBO series Lanterns, which depicts Hal Jordan mentoring his successor. Fans theorized Lillard might be cast as a retired Barry Allen mentoring Wally West.
With Lillard's Flash casting now dismissed, his role in Man of Tomorrow remains a mystery. It is also unclear if The Flash will appear in the film.
Man of Tomorrow, scheduled for release on July 9, 2027, will see Superman and Lex Luthor collaborate to confront the cosmic threat of Brainiac. David Corenswet will return as Superman, with Nicholas Hoult reprising his role as Lex Luthor. Lars Eidinger is set to portray Brainiac.
The film's ensemble cast includes Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Frank Grillo as Rick Flag Sr., María Gabriela de Faría as the Engineer, Sara Sampaio as Eve Teschmacher, Milly Alcock as Supergirl, and Aaron Pierre as John Stewart. Adria Arjona is also attached to the project, with speculation suggesting she may play Wonder Woman. Andrey Royo and Sinqua Walls are cast in undisclosed roles alongside Lillard.