The first season finale of Creature Commandos, the animated DC Universe (DCU) series led by James Gunn, premiered on January 9, 2025, delivering a mix of emotional depth, dynamic storytelling, and universe-expanding revelations. Titled “A Very Funny Monster,” the episode presented a compelling origin story for Nina Mazursky and deepened the ongoing conflict with Princess Ilana. However, the biggest highlight was the introduction of King Shark, the fan-favorite from The Suicide Squad, into the series. This addition exemplifies Gunn’s meticulous effort to weave a cohesive and interconnected DCU across both animation and live-action platforms.
King Shark, whose simplistic yet endearing personality won hearts in Gunn’s The Suicide Squad, finds himself recruited by Amanda Waller, tying Creature Commandos further into the DC cinematic fabric. The inclusion of King Shark—voiced by Sylvester Stallone in live-action—raises questions about continuity between mediums. Gunn’s track record suggests a strong commitment to consistency, leaving fans hopeful that Stallone might reprise the role in animation. The character’s entrance also opens avenues for exploring his comic book backstory, where he is depicted as the son of a shark god and a human woman. Gunn’s penchant for reimagining characters in creative and unexpected ways makes this a storyline to watch as the series continues.
This finale also boasted a stellar voice ensemble, featuring Zoe Chao as Nina Mazursky, Alan Tudyk as Dr. Phosphorus, Sean Gunn as Weasel, and Indira Varma as The Bride. Returning cast members included Frank Grillo as Rick Flag Sr., David Harbour as Eric Frankenstein, and Viola Davis in her iconic role as Amanda Waller. The chemistry between these performers elevated the show’s balance of humor, action, and emotional resonance, a hallmark of Gunn’s storytelling.
Critics and audiences alike have praised Creature Commandos for bridging the gap between the old DC Extended Universe (DCEU) and the reimagined DCU. IGN lauded the show for its ability to blend Gunn’s signature elements—quirky characters, sharp humor, and a killer soundtrack—with fresh animated storytelling. By incorporating familiar elements like Task Force X alongside new narratives, the series successfully expands the DCU while respecting its roots.
The introduction of King Shark exemplifies the creative synergy driving the DCU’s transformation. As a character whose mythology spans comic books and live-action films, King Shark represents the series’ potential to bridge narratives and media. Whether Gunn leans into his mythological roots or crafts an entirely original take, the possibilities underscore the flexibility and depth of the DCU’s storytelling approach.
As DC Studios co-heads James Gunn and Peter Safran forge ahead with their vision for the DCU, Creature Commandos sets the stage for an interconnected universe that spans genres and formats. The show’s balance of humor, drama, and world-building makes it a cornerstone for the DCU’s future. With Season 2 already confirmed, fans eagerly await how the introduction of King Shark and other twists will shape the franchise’s direction.
The DCU is in the midst of a transformative journey. As Creature Commandos expands its narrative scope, the question arises: how will the series continue to bridge animation and live-action storytelling, and how might it influence the evolving boundaries of the DCU? The answers will likely define the next chapter in DC’s quest to build a unified and engaging cinematic universe.