David Ellison, the CEO of Paramount Skydance, has demonstrated significant interest in DC Studios' ongoing projects, according to Supergirl producer Lars P. Winther. Winther shared in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter that Ellison recently visited the set of James Gunn's Superman sequel, which has been filming for approximately two months and will feature Supergirl. Ellison reportedly toured Trilith Studios in Atlanta, where DC films are produced.
Winther described Ellison as being "pretty open to what we're doing" and a "big fan" of DC Studios' current creative endeavors. He indicated that Ellison is receptive to the studio's plans and has been supportive, suggesting no immediate cause for alarm regarding the future of the DC Universe.
The producer also noted that several projects are already in motion, including the upcoming release of Clayface and the Lanterns TV show, indicating that the train has already left the station on these productions. This comes as Ellison's Paramount is in discussions to merge with Warner Bros., the parent company of DC Studios. Concerns had been raised that a potential merger could lead to cost-cutting measures or a drastic shift in DC's creative direction.
The new DC Universe has recently begun its rollout, with the Superman film scheduled for 2025 and Supergirl set to release in theaters this weekend, marking the second installment. Further projects like Clayface and Lanterns are slated for release later this year, with The Batman Part II and Man of Tomorrow expected in 2027.
Winther’s comments suggest that Ellison’s interest is one of appreciation for the current slate, rather than an immediate intention to overhaul the studio's direction. The history of the previous DC universe, marked by executive power struggles and inconsistent visions, highlights the potential pitfalls of frequent reboots and external interference in creative endeavors.