James Gunn, James Gunn DCU Green Arrow [Image Source: COMICBOOK]
Stephen Amell, who famously portrayed Oliver Queen’s Green Arrow in the Arrowverse, has expressed his interest in bringing the character back for James Gunn’s DCU Green Arrow reboot. Amell’s remarks were made during a panel discussion at Motor City Comic Con, igniting speculation among DC Universe fans about his potential future in the evolving superhero franchise.
Amell Opens Up About His Arrowverse Legacy and Possible DCU Comeback
Stephen Amell became the face of Green Arrow starting in 2012, starring as the businessman-turned-vigilante Oliver Queen on Arrow. The series established his origin as a survivor of the island Lian Yu, who returned home with new skills and a desire for justice, first adopting the moniker The Hood before evolving into Green Arrow. Praised for his intense and passionate performance, Amell’s portrayal left a lasting impression throughout the Arrowverse—a shared universe of interconnected DC shows.
Although Amell’s last appearance came during The Flash’s final season, his connection to fans and the role remains strong. During the Arrowverse Heroes panel moderated by Joe Deckelmeier for Screen Rant, Amell addressed the prospect of returning as Green Arrow in James Gunn and Peter Safran’s new DC Universe. He said,
“[I would be] down to do anything that makes the fans happy,”
—Stephen Amell. The actor was clear about his affection for the character, stating,
Image of: James Gunn
“I love playing the Green Arrow, I love playing Oliver Queen.”
—Stephen Amell. Despite rumors, there are currently no official plans from DC Studios for Green Arrow’s inclusion in the DCU reboot.
Amell also reflected on the close bond he shares with the series’ fans, noting the ongoing impact of his time as Oliver Queen. He observed how Arrow resonates with viewers, saying,
“I think, more than that, I like how it makes people feel when I come to these conventions, or just when I’m walking around on a daily basis. Not a day goes by that someone doesn’t talk to me about Arrow, the Green Arrow, Oliver Queen. But they always then relate it back to their experience with the series, how it made them feel, whether they bonded with a sibling, or a parent, or a friend with the series.”
—Stephen Amell. His comments underscore the deep personal connections and emotional intensity that the character inspired among Arrowverse fans and the broader DC community.
Uncertain Fate for Green Arrow in James Gunn’s Revamped DC Universe
Whether Stephen Amell reprises his role or another actor steps into Oliver Queen’s shoes, many believe that the DCU would benefit from introducing Green Arrow to its superhero lineup. While Green Arrow received a playful mention in the season one finale of Peacemaker, this nod did not translate into an on-screen appearance during season two, which is part of the new continuity established by James Gunn and Peter Safran.
During the eighth episode of Peacemaker: The Official Podcast, James Gunn, now co-CEO of DC Studios, commented directly on the character’s current standing in the new universe, stating,
“Green Arrow is not part of [the DCU’s] system right now, so maybe Green Arrow exists, maybe he doesn’t.”
—James Gunn, DC Studios Co-CEO. This uncertainty leaves fans speculating about whether and how Green Arrow might eventually make his DCU debut.
Potential Casting and Story Avenues for Green Arrow’s DCU Introduction
Green Arrow is a prominent member of the Justice League in DC Comics, and the possibility of his introduction to the DCU remains an exciting prospect. Stephen Amell, now 44 years old, could bring a mature and hardened take on Oliver Queen if he returns, adding new dimensions to the character. Meanwhile, numerous actors such as Sam Claflin, Austin Butler, Charlie Hunnam, and Garrett Hedlund have been suggested by fans as potential alternatives for the role, highlighting the widespread anticipation around the casting decision.
Bringing Green Arrow into James Gunn’s DCU could provide opportunities to explore more grounded, street-level narratives, echoing the character’s roots, and open the door to stories with political depth and personal stakes. This move could also serve as a catalyst for assembling a new version of the Justice League within the rebooted universe, aligning with fans’ aspirations for diverse and compelling superhero stories.
Fans’ Lasting Connection to the Arrowverse and Future Hopes
The legacy of the Arrowverse and Stephen Amell’s contribution as Oliver Queen continues to resonate, even as the DCU forges a new path. The Arrowverse was pivotal in reshaping the perception of DC heroes for modern television audiences, as noted by long-time viewers and the vibrant fan community. The impact of this era is frequently discussed at conventions and online forums, keeping hope alive for a potential return of Green Arrow on a larger cinematic canvas.
As anticipation swirls around James Gunn’s creative vision for the DCU, fans remain eager for official news concerning Green Arrow’s future—whether that means witnessing Stephen Amell’s triumphant return or greeting a new actor in the role. With audiences still deeply attached to Arrow’s legacy and the emotional bonds forged through its stories, the inclusion of Green Arrow would likely be met with excitement and passion throughout the DC fandom.
The discussion continues among fans, as the next era of DC storytelling takes shape and the franchise’s iconic heroes await their moment to shine within the James Gunn DCU Green Arrow narrative.
