Casting Wonder Woman for James Gunn’s DCU: 8 Actresses Who Could Replace Gal Gadot

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Based on Superman’s remarkable achievement, it can be confidently stated that James Gunn’s DC Universe has had a powerful launch. Despite the upcoming solo films featuring Supergirl and Clayface next year, there’s already an eager demand among fans for more renowned DC characters to appear on the big screen. One of the most sought-after is Wonder Woman, as Gunn has revealed that both a film focusing on her character and a series centering around her homeland Themyscira are in development. However, director Patty Jenkins and actress Gal Gadot, who previously portrayed Wonder Woman, have not joined the rebooted DCU, leaving the pivotal role of Diana Prince open for competition.

Here are our top eight picks for who could best fill Diana’s boots on screen.

8) Adria Arjona

Uprising, as well as his performance in Andor, have prepared him well for a leading role in the DC Universe.

7) Alexandria Daddario

Besides looking remarkably like Diana with her traditional aesthetic, Daddario also boasts an impressive resume to match. She gained prominence in “Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief” and has since appeared in films such as “Baywatch” and “San Andreas,” demonstrating her familiarity with high-profile productions and physically challenging roles. Moreover, her lead role in AMC’s “The Mayfair Witches” underscores her ability to headline a project effectively.

6) Melissa Barrera

While Barrera is primarily recognized for her roles in horror films like “Scream” and “Abigail,” she has also showcased her versatility in musical projects such as “In the Heights” and “Carmen.” Though action might not be her main focus, Barrera’s distinctive appearance and demonstrated versatility make her a strong candidate for the role of Diana. Given that an actor with a musical theater background proved successful as Superman, Barrera could certainly rise to the challenge of playing Wonder Woman.

5) May Calamawy

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s “Moon Knight” series, Calamawy broke ground by portraying the Scarlet Scarab, marking her as the first on-screen Arab female superhero. It would be fantastic to see her continue this trend in the DCU, given her proven ability to handle the high-octane action typically associated with such roles. Calamawy displayed a captivating, understated intensity in “Moon Knight,” and if harnessed for a Wonder Woman character, she could offer a refreshing, captivating contrast to David Corenswet’s sincere portrayal of Superman.

4) Elizabeth Debicki

Australian actor Elizabeth Debicki holds several advantages for portraying Wonder Woman in the DCU. She previously collaborated with James Gunn in the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy, where she transformed almost unrecognizably as the high priestess Ayesha. Additionally, she has played another globally renowned princess, Princess Diana of Wales, on the critically-acclaimed show The Crown. Standing at 6’1″, Debicki would not tower over Corenswet, and her natural warmth would harmonize well with his portrayal of Superman.

3) Cailee Spaeny

Following her impressive performance as the lead in the summer blockbuster sci-fi horror film “Alien: Romulus”, we are eagerly anticipating another dynamic action role for Cailee Spaeny. With a physical resemblance that hints at a familial connection to the original Wonder Woman, Lynda Carter, and her proven prowess in action movies such as “Romulus” and “Pacific Rim: Uprising”, Spaeny seems well-equipped to take on a character like Wonder Woman with apparent ease.

2) Sophie Thatcher

Lately, Thatcher’s career has been flourishing with notable roles in “Yellowjackets” and “Companion,” suggesting she may be just one project away from achieving global recognition. Being the youngest on this list, she could be an excellent pick for Gunn if he seeks a Diana who can evolve alongside the burgeoning DCU. Moreover, Thatcher’s casting could introduce a captivating rough edge and grittiness to Wonder Woman that has yet to appear in blockbuster films. Unlike Superman, she wouldn’t require justifying her punk-rock persona.

1) Alicia Vikander

Actor Alicia Vikander is accustomed to portraying renowned action heroes, as evident from her role as Lara Croft in the 2018 film “Tomb Raider” and her Oscar-winning performance as an Amazonian princess could be a possibility. While she’s equally known for action and sci-fi roles like her breakout part in “Ex Machina,” it’s Vikander’s knack for period dramas such as “Firebrand” and “The Danish Girl” that leads us to believe she could imbue Diana with a distinct air of elegance and weight.

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2025-08-21 02:12