James Gunn, DC Studios co-CEO and director of the upcoming Superman film, has confirmed that Aquaman will not be a major hero in the recently rebooted DC Universe (DCU). During a discussion on Peacemaker: The Official Podcast, Gunn noted that Aquaman is unlikely to hold the same celebrity status he once had in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), urging fans to “cut out fish jokes” associated with the character.
Aquaman, originally portrayed by Jason Momoa, first appeared as Arthur Curry in 2016’s Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice and made a full return in 2017’s Justice League. Despite the mixed reception of those films, Aquaman’s standalone movie in 2018 grossed over $1.1 billion worldwide, marking one of the biggest successes for the DCEU.
From DCEU Success to DCU Reset
The 2023 Aquaman sequel, which was the final movie under the DCEU banner, earned $440 million globally—a figure considered disappointing compared to its predecessor. Rumors had suggested that Aquaman might play a key role in future DCEU projects such as Crisis on Infinite Earths or the Flashpoint storyline, which was expected to portray a conflict between Atlantis and Themyscira. However, Warner Bros.’ failure to fully execute Flashpoint in The Flash film led to the dismantling of the DCEU, paving the way for the DCU reboot.
In the original Peacemaker series, Aquaman was often the subject of crude jokes, particularly from Christopher Smith, the title character. The running gag about Aquaman’s supposed relations with fish was visually addressed in the season finale, where Momoa’s Arthur Curry appeared alongside Ezra Miller’s Flash to deny the claims. Gunn affirmed that while Peacemaker series events do occur within the new continuity, Aquaman’s iconic reputation from that show does not.
James Gunn’s Statement on Aquaman’s DCU Status
On Peacemaker: The Official Podcast, Gunn stated:
“It’s unlikely that Aquaman is a famous hero in the DCU as Superman and Peacemaker season 2 are happening. That’s unlikely,”
—James Gunn, DC Studios co-CEO and Superman director
Adding humor to the subdued message, he suggested fans could create an edited version of the Peacemaker series, saying:
“You can cut out Aquaman f***ing fish.”
—James Gunn, DC Studios co-CEO and Superman director
Gunn also revealed that viewers will have to wait several years before seeing Aquaman or The Flash appear in the DCU, and both roles will be recast with new actors. This approach signals a fresh creative direction for these characters within the rebooted universe, emphasizing that Aquaman will not yet be established as a widely recognized hero during the events of Superman.
Jason Momoa’s New Role as Lobo in the DC Universe
Following his tenure as Aquaman, Jason Momoa has transitioned into a new part within the DC franchise. He will portray the antihero Lobo in the upcoming Supergirl movie, set to release on June 26, 2026. Momoa has expressed enthusiasm for the role, noting his longtime affection for the Lobo comics and admitting that he initially believed he would play Lobo during Zack Snyder’s Batman v. Superman.
“[I] have every Lobo comic. He was my favorite. I thought I was gonna be playing Lobo when Zack Snyder called me,”
—Jason Momoa, actor
“Because it was Batman v. Superman, they needed to have a villain in there, and that’s the only guy that can, you know.”
—Jason Momoa, actor
Momoa emphasized his excitement and nervousness about embodying the character, complimenting the design and tone of the portrayal:
“This is the role I’ve always wanted to play. That’s the comic I loved, so I’m really nervous about it,”
—Jason Momoa, actor
“It’s kind of a no-brainer to play this character. It’s pretty big. I don’t want to give away too much, but I mean, we look pretty dead on, exactly like the character, and he’s pretty rough and gruff and…I’ll say the bike’s really cool.”
—Jason Momoa, actor
When asked about the potential longevity of the role, Momoa responded:
“I hope so. I hope so. I hope so. It’s her movie, so it’s great. I just come in for a little bit.”
—Jason Momoa, actor
Future of the DCU and Supergirl’s Upcoming Adventure
The Supergirl film will introduce new storylines as its titular character travels across the galaxy to mark her 21st birthday with Krypto the Superdog. During her journey, she meets a woman named Ruthye, which leads her into a deadly quest for vengeance. This movie, arriving in theaters in mid-2026, represents part of DC Studios’ broader plan to reshape the DCU with fresh perspectives and narrative directions, positioning characters like Aquaman as emerging rather than established heroes in this timeline.
