Matthew Lillard, known for his work in Scream and Scooby-Doo, is about to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the second season of Daredevil: Born Again, but the possibility of a James Gunn DCU collaboration remains very much on the table. As Lillard’s acting calendar fills up, he has been open about his ongoing conversations with James Gunn and interest in joining the evolving DC Universe, sparking speculation about which role he might take on.
Lillard’s upcoming projects are significant—besides Daredevil, he stars in Five Nights at Freddy’s 2, set for a December premiere, and will appear in the highly anticipated Scream 7 and Mike Flanagan’s Carrie series in 2026. It is notable that Lillard’s break into the MCU took time; he once auditioned for a comedic turn as Taser-Face in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, a role he felt a personal connection to due to Gunn’s signature blend of humor and heart.
Unexpected MCU Debut and Lillard’s Audition History
During a recent MovieWeb interview, Lillard elaborated on his longstanding relationship with directors like Gunn and Flanagan, who are collaborating on the DCU’s upcoming Clayface movie. When asked about joining Gunn’s creative team, Lillard revealed that not only has he spoken to Gunn about future possibilities, but he nearly became part of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2’s cast, highlighting the fluid boundaries between Marvel and DC today.
Chris Sullivan ultimately portrayed Taser-Face, delivering memorable comic relief to Marvel audiences, but Lillard’s interest never waned. With his role in Daredevil: Born Again confirmed for the next season, Lillard’s aspirations for a James Gunn DCU collaboration seem more realistic as the DCU enters a period of creative growth.
“He knows. I’ve called, I just did something with Marvel, and I’ve now entered the MCU. I literally texted him, I’m like, if I do Marvel, am I still welcome to the DCU? He’s like, yes, totally without a doubt. I’ve told them more than once. I am so ready. I auditioned for Guardians of the Galaxy for Taser-Face. I just wanted to be in Guardians of the Galaxy so bad.
I love that film so much. But look, all good things in time. My hope is that we find a moment to be together and work together again. I love everything he’s doing over at DC. Superman was a crowning achievement. That’s his love letter. He loves that property, and he should. I literally stand at the ready. I am whatever clay he needs me to be. Put me in, coach. So we’ll see what happens in time.”
– Matthew Lillard, Actor
Lillard’s Fit with the Expanding DC Universe
Lillard has publicly lauded James Gunn, especially for what he describes as Gunn’s “crowning achievement” in Superman, and expressed his readiness for any opportunity within the DCU. As the franchise expands, 2026 is expected to bring projects like Supergirl, Lanterns, and Clayface to screens, each offering the potential for colorful new roles. Lillard, known for his transformative performances, has been suggested by interviewers and fans for characters such as Plastic Man, The Question, and Man-Bat, reflecting both his range and the playful DNA Gunn brings to his films.
There is no shortage of roles that could suit Lillard as casting searches for Man of Tomorrow and other major DCU features continue, with characters like Brainiac still up for grabs. As The Brave and the Bold, and new Wonder Woman stories stay in early development, Matt Reeves’ next Batman installment, laden with potential villains, could be a fitting home for Lillard’s talents. Gunn’s keen awareness of Lillard’s capabilities and the adaptable nature of DCU roles make this partnership increasingly likely as the franchise evolves.
The Broader Context of Marvel and DC Casting Decisions
The part of Taser-Face in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, eventually played by Chris Sullivan, was crafted with the blend of irreverent comedy and action that James Gunn is famous for. Lillard’s desire for the role underlines the competitive and often interconnected world of superhero casting. Losing out on this job has not slowed his momentum; instead, entering the Marvel fold with Daredevil signals a turning point and keeps him positioned for parallel opportunities within the DCU.
As both Marvel and DC continue to create sprawling franchises populated by iconic actors and memorable villains, the possibility of crossover for performers grows, and Lillard’s journey reflects this trend. His scheduled appearances in Scream 7, the Carrie series, and Born Again, alongside dialogue with major franchise heads like Gunn and Flanagan, demonstrate his sustained relevance and appeal for high-profile superhero roles.
The Road Ahead for Lillard in Comic Book Adaptations
Looking to the future, Lillard’s willingness to take on any challenge, coupled with Gunn’s evolving plans for the DCU, paints an optimistic picture for fans. There is an expectation that his entry into superhero franchises will lead to impactful portrayals that contribute to the ongoing success of both Marvel and DC cinematic universes.
As the DCU and MCU expand, fans and industry observers alike will be watching to see how James Gunn, an architect of the modern superhero genre, might utilize Lillard’s experience and charisma. Whether in villainous or comedic form, Lillard’s next steps within the landscape of comic book adaptations will likely be shaped by audience interest, creative casting, and the dynamic collaboration between Hollywood’s most ambitious franchises.
