Quick Read
- Tom Welling, known for Smallville’s Superman, wants to play Batman in James Gunn’s DC Universe.
- Pierce Brosnan hinted at Doctor Fate’s possible return in the Superman sequel, though Gunn downplayed the rumor.
- James Gunn’s Superman film launches a new era, with exclusive behind-the-scenes content now available.
- Fan art imagines Matt Smith as Brainiac, rumored to be the villain in Gunn’s upcoming Man of Tomorrow.
- DCU’s future includes major upcoming projects: Lanterns, Supergirl, Clayface, and The Batman – Part II.
Tom Welling’s Batman Ambitions: A Legacy Hero Seeks a New Mantle
Tom Welling, the actor many still associate with Superman thanks to his decade-long portrayal of Clark Kent on Smallville, made waves recently at Comic Con Liverpool. When asked what other DC character he would want to play in James Gunn’s DCU, Welling didn’t hesitate: “I mean, Batman.” The crowd responded with thunderous approval, a testament to the lasting affection fans hold for his work.
It’s not the first time Welling’s expressed interest in Gotham’s caped crusader. Back in 2019, he mused on the Inside of You podcast about the potential of playing Batman, citing the character’s room for growth and complexity. During Smallville’s run, Welling advocated for Bruce Wayne to make a cameo, even pitching a scene where Wayne would appear in Lex Luthor’s office—an idea ultimately stymied by the longstanding divide between DC’s film and television branches. While Smallville never featured Batman on screen, the show’s comic book continuation did introduce a grittier, more armored version of the Dark Knight, hinting at what might have been if Welling had donned the cowl.
Doctor Fate and Superman: Rumors, Reality, and James Gunn’s Response
As Gunn’s Superman gears up for its July 2025 release, speculation is swirling about possible additions to the cast. Pierce Brosnan, who played Doctor Fate in Black Adam, stoked rumors in an interview with GQ that his mystical character could return in the upcoming Superman: Man of Tomorrow. Brosnan shared, “I’ve heard that Dr Fate was going to have his own show, or his own movie. I’ve heard that he’s going to be in the next Superman.”
Yet, James Gunn himself offered a cryptic response on Threads: “My opinion is I’ve never heard of a Dr. Fate rumor.” Gunn’s statement leaves room for interpretation—he doesn’t outright deny the possibility, but neither does he confirm it. This ambiguity, common in blockbuster franchise management, keeps fans guessing. Considering Doctor Fate’s comic book ties to the Justice League International—a group Gunn is reportedly drawing inspiration from—his inclusion in the DCU remains plausible, though the expanding cast of Man of Tomorrow (with Brainiac, Wonder Woman, and returning Superman characters) suggests limited screen time for additional heroes.
The Art and Making of Gunn’s Superman: A New Vision for DC
For fans eager to see behind the curtain, “Superman: The Art and Making of the Film” delivers a richly detailed look at the creative process behind Gunn’s DCU debut. The book, written by James Fields with an introduction by Gunn and a foreword by Superman actor David Corenswet, spans 176 pages of concept art, unit photography, and candid interviews with cast and crew. It reveals how Gunn and co-president Peter Safran approached the challenge of revitalizing Superman for a new era, honoring the character’s classic roots while introducing fresh elements and characters.
IGN Nordic’s exclusive preview of the book spotlights Anthony Carrigan’s Metamorpho and the intricate design of Metropolis, underscoring the depth and ambition of the film’s world-building. For DC aficionados, the publication offers more than just pretty pictures; it’s a window into the early development of what Gunn hopes will be a cohesive, interconnected universe.
Man of Tomorrow: Brainiac, Casting Buzz, and the Road Ahead
The next chapter for Superman is already coming into focus. “Man of Tomorrow,” directed by Gunn and slated for a July 9, 2027 release, will pit the hero against one of his most formidable foes: Brainiac. Fan art circulating online, notably by @horrific.heroics, imagines Doctor Who alum Matt Smith as the iconic villain—a casting idea that has electrified fans, though no official announcement has been made. Brainiac’s legacy stretches across decades of Superman media, from Smallville to Krypton, making him a natural choice for Gunn’s expanding DCU.
Other confirmed developments include Frank Grillo’s return as Rick Flag Sr. (following his appearance in Peacemaker season 2) and Rachel Brosnahan reprising her role as Lois Lane, with Gunn teasing her increased significance in the sequel. Meanwhile, the DCU’s broader slate is filling out: HBO’s Lanterns is set for early 2026, theatrical releases for Supergirl and Clayface are planned for June and September 2026, and The Batman – Part II will begin filming in 2026 for an October 2027 release.
These projects reflect Gunn’s strategy of weaving together classic heroes, new faces, and familiar villains into a tapestry that respects DC’s history while charting new territory. The anticipation for each casting decision, plot reveal, and artistic choice mirrors the fan engagement that has always fueled superhero storytelling.
The Challenge of Uniting DC’s Worlds: TV, Film, and Beyond
One recurring theme in Gunn’s tenure is the effort to bridge the historical divide between DC’s television and cinematic properties. As Tom Welling’s experience on Smallville illustrates, licensing and creative silos have often prevented crossovers that fans crave. Gunn’s reboot, with its unified approach, aims to resolve these longstanding hurdles, allowing for more fluid movement of characters and stories across media platforms.
At the same time, Gunn faces the balancing act of honoring fan nostalgia—whether it’s through legacy actors like Welling or beloved characters like Doctor Fate—while forging ahead with new interpretations and unexpected team-ups. The success of this approach will depend on his ability to maintain narrative coherence amid a crowded roster and shifting audience expectations.
Looking Forward: What Lies Ahead for Gunn’s DCU?
As the DCU continues to unfold under Gunn’s stewardship, fans are left with tantalizing questions. Will Tom Welling ever get the chance to wear Batman’s cape in the new continuity? Could Doctor Fate’s mystical powers add depth to Superman’s world, or will the character remain in the realm of rumor? And how will the casting of Brainiac and the evolution of supporting heroes like Lois Lane shape the tone and trajectory of future films?
Gunn’s vision, as revealed in interviews and production materials, is one of both respect for tradition and appetite for innovation. By inviting actors, artists, and fans into the creative process, he’s cultivating a sense of shared ownership over the DCU’s next phase—a strategy that could prove vital in navigating the franchise’s complex legacy and ambitious future.James Gunn’s approach to revitalizing the DC Universe is marked by a careful blend of legacy, innovation, and fan engagement. By spotlighting both new talent and familiar faces, Gunn is crafting a cinematic world that feels both rooted and adventurous. The success of this venture will depend on his ability to balance nostalgia with fresh storytelling, unite disparate corners of the franchise, and respond to the evolving hopes of DC’s passionate audience.