Filmmaker Zack Snyder has unveiled a previously unseen behind-the-scenes photo featuring Jason Momoa as Aquaman from the production period of Justice League in Iceland. This new release sheds light on Jason Momoa Aquaman Justice League history, offering fans another perspective on the character’s formative days in the DC film universe.
Jason Momoa’s Aquaman Journey in the DC Universe
Jason Momoa’s journey as Aquaman began with a brief introduction in 2016’s Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. He soon reprised the role as a core member of the team in 2017’s Justice League, before leading solo films Aquaman in 2018 and Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom five years later. Momoa’s performances helped define the character’s place in the modern superhero landscape.
Despite the end of his tenure as Arthur Curry, fans have continued interest in Momoa’s portrayal. The unexpected release of a new image by Zack Snyder continues the director’s tradition of sharing black and white portraits of DC characters. Previous subjects posted by Snyder include Ben Affleck as Batman, Jared Leto as Joker, and Joe Manganiello as Deathstroke. He captioned the latest photo by stating:
“I took this photo of [Jason Momoa] in Iceland.”
– Zack Snyder, Director
Snyder’s post confirms the photo’s origin during Justice League’s filming in Iceland, aligning with known production details of the superhero ensemble project.
The Surprising Casting Decision Behind Aquaman
When Jason Momoa was originally announced for the role of Aquaman, the casting drew surprise. Momoa was largely recognized at the time for his performance as Khal Drogo on HBO’s Game of Thrones—an intense, gritty character. This made him an unconventional choice for Aquaman, traditionally depicted with a more polished look. The inspiration for this casting, however, came directly from Zack Snyder’s enthusiasm for Game of Thrones.
Deborah Snyder, a long-time producing partner on the DC projects, shared insight into the director’s decision-making. She explained:
“We’re big Game of Thrones fans… I remember Jason Momoa. Zack was like, ‘Jason would be the perfect Aquaman.’ I was like, ‘It’s so out of the box. But yeah! He can be tough. And he feels like he comes from the water.’”
– Deborah Snyder, Producer
The decision represented a new interpretation of Aquaman, giving an edgier dimension to the character and helping to redefine him for a broader audience.
Jason Momoa Reflects on Aquaman’s Impact on His Career
Jason Momoa has expressed gratitude for his role as Aquaman, crediting the opportunity with giving his career a major resurgence. After his work on Game of Thrones, Momoa found it challenging to secure new roles, partially due to public perception from his earlier character’s limited dialogue.
During a conversation on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Momoa recounted the unusual nature of his Aquaman audition and Zack Snyder’s role in bringing him on board:
“That whole audition process was pretty crazy. I mean, Zack [Snyder] was a huge fan of Game of Thrones. A lot of people are huge fans of Game of Thrones. And Zack was the one that… I couldn’t get a job, and Zack called me in, and he was a huge fan, and he wanted to take Aquaman, who… It was funny, because I had no idea what I was gonna be playing. He just called me in, I had to audition, it was for Batman. Obviously Ben [Affleck] was cast, and I’m like, ‘What am I coming [in for]?’ […] I’m like, ‘I’m just gonna basically be the bad guy. I’m gonna fight Batman and Superman […] I’m gonna play the villain. And he’s like, ‘Wait, no… Aquaman.’”
– Jason Momoa, Actor
Momoa’s story highlights the unpredictable nature of Hollywood casting, as well as the impact a single role can have on an actor’s career trajectory.
Future Appearances and Lasting Influence
Jason Momoa’s contributions to the DC universe continue, as he prepares to take on a new role as Lobo in the upcoming film Supergirl, expected to premiere in theaters on June 26, 2026. His transformation from Jon Snow’s formidable ally to DC’s aquatic superhero, and now to another iconic comic book character, demonstrates his versatility.
Zack Snyder’s latest reveal of a behind-the-scenes moment from Justice League not only rekindles appreciation for Momoa’s version of Aquaman but also underscores Snyder’s unique approach to superhero portrayal. New glimpses like these reignite conversations about casting choices, filmmaking decisions, and the evolution of comic book adaptations in cinema, as the DC Universe continues to expand in new directions.
