The CW's DC experiment is over, and FOX's Gotham hasn't quite hit the mark. But then came The Penguin, a series so good it redefined what's possible in DC adaptations. What's next for the DC Universe?
Peacemaker and Gunn have delivered the absurd, crossover-filled spectacle that Black Label comic fans have craved. Here's a look at what's coming, including animation:
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 its successful December 5th premiere and overwhelmingly positive critical response. Peter Safran and James Gunn, thrilled with the success of Peacemaker, The Penguin, and Creature Commandos, confirmed the news, highlighting each project's exceeding expectations. This James Gunn creation follows a unique military unit led by Rick Flag, comprised of supernatural beings: werewolves, vampires, mythological creatures, and a reanimated horror icon. The show expertly balances action, supernatural elements, and dark humor.
With a 7.8 IMDb rating and 95% on Rotten Tomatoes, the series resonated deeply with audiences. Its exploration of transformation, camaraderie, and self-discovery, coupled with dynamic action and sharp wit, makes it a standout. The stellar cast, including Indira Varma, Sean Gunn, Alan Tudyk, Zoë Chao, David Harbour, and Frank Grillo, adds to its unique charm.
Peacemaker Season 2
Release Date: August 2025
John Cena, speaking to Variety in September 2024, offered cautious optimism about Peacemaker Season 2. The extended development, he explained, is due to the restructuring of DC's leadership and a deliberate focus on quality over speed. Gunn and Safran prioritized meticulous integration within the new DC Universe. Filming is underway, signaling significant progress, though a precise release date remains unannounced.
This measured approach suggests Peacemaker Season 2 won't be a simple continuation, but a carefully crafted piece of the larger DC narrative. Rather than a rushed sequel, the team prioritized seamless integration into the overarching story.
Paradise Lost
Paradise Lost will explore the origins of Themyscira, the Amazonian homeland, before Wonder Woman. Peter Safran envisions it as a Game of Thrones-esque drama focusing on the political intrigue within this all-female society, showcasing both its glory and its shadows. While still in early development (script refinement is ongoing, per James Gunn's social media), the project's significance within the DC universe ensures its continued development.
Booster Gold
Booster Gold introduces Michael Jon Carter, a future athlete who travels back in time to become a hero. Aided by his robotic companion, Skeets, he uses his knowledge of the future to gain an advantage. While details are scarce, James Gunn, on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, confirmed that the script is still being refined to meet the studio's high standards before production begins.
Waller
Waller, starring Viola Davis, will follow Amanda Waller's story after Peacemaker Season 2. James Gunn, via Deadline, explained that its development is sequenced after Superman. The series boasts a talented team, including Watchmen's Christal Henry and Doom Patrol's Jeremy Carver, and features returning Peacemaker cast members. While details are limited, Gunn's social media confirms ongoing progress, with the focus on script completion before scheduling.
Lanterns
HBO's eight-episode Lanterns series, originally planned for Max, features a stellar creative team including writers Chris Mundy, Damon Lindelof, and Tom King, and director James Hawes. The series stars Kyle Chandler as Hal Jordan and Aaron Pierre as John Stewart, whose investigation into a murder in the American heartland uncovers a larger conspiracy. James Gunn emphasized its earthbound setting and its importance within the larger DC narrative.
Dynamic Duo
DC Studios and Swaybox Studios are collaborating on Dynamic Duo, an animated film focusing on Dick Grayson and Jason Todd. The innovative animation style, potentially rivaling Spider-Verse, will explore their friendship and the growing tensions between them. Arthur Mintz directs, using "Momo animation," a blend of CGI, stop-motion, and performance capture, with Matthew Aldrich writing the script. James Gunn's announcement highlighted the collaboration with Matt Reeves' production company.
