Is Aquaman already a mainstay in the DC Universe? James Gunn reveals new details about the Defender of the Deep’s status in the rebooted franchise.
For newer fans of the DC Universe, it may be hard to believe that there was a time where Aquaman was one of the franchise’s biggest faces. He was perhaps the franchise’s most well-known hero outside of the trinity before the turn of the century due to his prominence in projects like Super Friends. However, following the edgy turn of the 2000s, the character was often side-lined due to being seen as too silly.
This trend largely continued into the 2010s and early 2020s, with Jason Momoa’s version of Aquaman trying to reinvent him as a dark surfer bro. Yet his popularity still persisted, with the first Aquaman film earning a billion dollars at the box office. This left many to wonder when James Gunn will bring the character into the new DC Universe and, more importantly, how he’ll be portrayed.
The Status Of Aquaman In The DC Universe
James Gunn actually briefly touched on Aquaman during the first episode of Peacemaker: The Official Podcast, which breaks down which parts of the series are canon to the new DC Universe. When speaking on the King of Atlantis, Gunn said that it’s not likely the character is a public hero at this point in the franchise.
“It’s unlikely that Aquaman is a famous hero in the DCU as Superman and Peacemaker season 2 are happening,” Gunn remarked. That’s unlikely. You can cut out Aquaman f***ing fish.”
While this doesn’t reveal much, it does suggest that James Gunn wants to introduce an Aquaman earlier in his career when the character finally makes his debut in the DC Universe. It’s unclear if that incarnation of the character will lean into the modern characterization of the hero, or if Gunn will find someone to bring fun back to the depths!
The Green Lantern series Lanterns is currently in production for HBO. Stay tuned for the latest news regarding the future of the DC Universe and make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more content!
