Warner Bros. Discovery is currently undergoing significant changes, and if Netflix successfully acquires the company, even more changes are likely. This could leave popular franchises like Lord of the Rings, Looney Tunes, Harry Potter, and the DC Universe in an uncertain position. The DC Universe, in particular, was a major point of discussion during the competition between Paramount and Netflix to buy Warner Bros., but it appears Warner Bros. remains committed to the existing plan for James Gunn’s superhero series.
Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) has reaffirmed its commitment to the ten-year plan for DC content developed by James Gunn, following earlier statements from David Zaslav. While it remains to be seen if Netflix will continue this plan after they take over, it appears James Gunn’s DC Universe (DCU) will remain in place for the near future. According to a recent letter to shareholders:
The release of Superman marks the beginning of a new direction for DC Studios and the first step in a planned 10-year story arc for both movies and TV shows, introducing both familiar and new characters. Following Superman, upcoming projects include Lanterns, set to stream on HBO Max in early 2026, and the theatrical releases of Supergirl and Clayface in summer and fall 2026, respectively. James Gunn is currently writing and will direct Man of Tomorrow, which will continue Superman’s story.
We’re still very enthusiastic about the progress at DC Studios and its potential to recapture fans’ interest and introduce these iconic characters to a new audience.
Will Netflix Want to Change the DCU?
Warner Bros. Pictures
Mergers often involve a lengthy period of uncertainty where plans change and projects are delayed as companies work to integrate. This was the case with Disney’s acquisition of Fox in 2019. It took Disney years to reintroduce Marvel characters into the Marvel Cinematic Universe and begin developing new films and expanding the franchises they gained, like Alien and Predator.
If the merger between Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery goes through as planned, don’t expect any major changes right away – probably not for a few years. By then, it will be clearer how well James Gunn’s plans are working for DC, which will help Netflix decide what to do with the franchise after its current projects. If shows like Supergirl, Clayface, Man of Tomorrow, and the introduction of Batman don’t gain a strong following, Netflix will likely shift its approach to the DC universe.
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Fans of the Snyderverse will likely start another online push to bring back Henry Cavill and the original creative team. However, a reboot would probably mean a fresh start for the DC Universe, completely different from what either Snyder or James Gunn envision. Navigating the expectations of both fanbases would be incredibly difficult, and most people wouldn’t want to face that challenge. Therefore, unless something unexpected happens, James Gunn’s DC Universe is likely to continue developing as planned.
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2025-12-24 14:05