Gunn Rules Out Darkseid, Outlines DCU Plan

Under James Gunn and Peter Safran, DC Studios is rebuilding the DCU with a single timeline while using an Elseworlds label to allow filmmaker-driven standalone projects. Gunn said he has spoken with Keanu Reeves about a potential Constantine 2 but has not read any script, despite Reeves and director Francis Lawrence pushing for a hard R-rated follow-up. He has explicitly ruled out Darkseid as the DCU’s primary “big bad” for now, citing Zack Snyder’s prior use of the character and perceived similarities to Marvel’s Thanos. Gunn clarified that Peacemaker’s Salvation dimension won’t necessarily follow the comics’ New Gods/DeSaad connections and confirmed ARGUS has been sending meta‑human prisoners there; he is interested in exploring New Gods themes through projects such as a Mister Miracle adaptation (whose teleplay he has not yet read). Lanterns and other Chapter One projects remain slated as the DCU builds out, but Warner Bros.’ disclosure of unsolicited interest in a potential sale raises questions about the future of DC games and could prompt a more cautious approach to game development.