RUMOR: James Gunn Could be Fired from DC Studios if Paramount Sale Goes Through

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There’s renewed speculation about DC Studios, this time focusing on co-CEO James Gunn. According to a report by Matt McGloin at *Cosmic Book News*, Gunn’s position could be at risk if Warner Bros. Discovery is acquired by Paramount Global and Skydance Media.

The story hasn’t been officially confirmed by any major news sources yet. However, *Cosmic Book News* has often revealed information before other entertainment publications, so fans are watching closely to see if this report is true.

The Claim Making the Rounds

According to an article by McGloin titled “James Gunn Out at DC With Warner Bros. Sale (Exclusive),” James Gunn’s position at DC Studios could be in jeopardy if Warner Bros. and Paramount merge, as has been widely discussed. The article claims Gunn is aware this merger could lead to his departure and is currently securing substantial compensation for himself, his colleagues, and his wife before the sale of Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) is finalized.

I’m hearing more and more that David Ellison over at Skydance is planning to bring in Mike De Luca, currently running films at Warner Bros., to essentially reboot DC. Apparently, the reaction to things like the recent *Superman* movie, the second season of *Peacemaker*, and even *Creature Commandos* (let’s be honest, a lot of people have already forgotten about that one!) suggests some studio heads are already thinking a fresh start is needed.

What We Actually Know

Here’s what’s publicly verifiable:

  • Gunn and Peter Safran were hired as co-CEOs of DC Studios in late 2022 on a multi-year contract that runs through 2026.
  • They currently report to David Zaslav, CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery.
  • M&A talks between WBD and Paramount have indeed been reported by outlets like Bloomberg and Deadline, but all descriptions emphasize that negotiations are preliminary and face significant regulatory hurdles.
  • Superman (2025) earned roughly $616 million worldwide on a $225 million budget—falling around $40 million short of profitability in its theatrical run.
  • Bloomberg has reported that WB has rebuffed Paramounts initial offer to buy the company.

Major trade publications haven’t reported anything about James Gunn’s position being in jeopardy or any plans to remove leaders at DC Studios.

Context: Why the Rumor Resonates

When a company buys another, it’s common for them to change who’s in charge, especially in Hollywood where a strong brand and creative vision are so important. If Paramount and Skydance were to buy Warner Bros. Discovery, they would likely review every part of the business, including DC Studios.

Honestly, getting rid of James Gunn would be a huge headache. He’s done amazing things with *Guardians of the Galaxy*, and he has a lot of fans who would be upset. Plus, his contract would make it really difficult and costly to fire him, so it’s not a simple decision at all.

In short: the corporate logic could exist—but there’s no concrete sign it’s happening.

Still Just a Rumor

It’s interesting to note that *Cosmic Book News* often reports on stories that bigger news outlets pick up later. Because independent websites aren’t tied to major corporations, they often hear rumors first. This latest rumor, true or not, has already gotten fans talking again about the future of Warner Bros. Discovery and the direction James Gunn is taking, which has sparked a lot of strong opinions – both good and bad.

Despite the recent reports, James Gunn probably won’t be losing his job soon. Even if Warner Bros. and Paramount were to merge, it would take a long time – potentially months or even years – for the deal to be approved by regulators. Usually, companies keep the current management team in place during that time to avoid disruption.

We’ll keep a close watch on what happens with the possible Warner Bros. and Paramount merger, the upcoming plans for DC Studios, and any confirmed changes in staff.

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2025-10-13 16:01