Major changes may soon come to the DC universe, as reports indicate James Gunn is no longer in charge, a move linked to ongoing James Gunn DC leadership changes. This shift is reportedly tied to Paramount’s potential acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, setting the stage for a transformation in creative control and future projects.
Paramount Progresses with DC Plans Before Sale Finalized
As rumors of Paramount acquiring Warner Bros. Discovery gain traction, new details reveal that Paramount is not waiting for the dust to settle. Sources indicate that the company has already initiated early discussions around DC projects, even as the sale remains incomplete. Paramount executives recently traveled to Prague to approach writer-director Zach Cregger, currently working on Resident Evil and known for his film Weapons, about making a film situated
“in a particular corner of the DC universe.”
This proactive approach strongly suggests that Paramount anticipates significant changes to the leadership at DC, particularly regarding James Gunn’s involvement. Reports claim that Mike De Luca has been identified as the new person in charge, indicating a major reshuffling among the creative decision-makers.
Zach Cregger Presents New Concept for the Gotham Universe
Zach Cregger had long planned to share his unique DC movie idea with James Gunn, aiming to secure approval directly from the outgoing DC Studios co-chair. However, with Gunn’s rumored departure and uncertainty clouding the current leadership’s future, it seems likely Cregger’s pitch will instead reach new decision-makers should the sale go through.
Back in July, Cregger disclosed his intention to propose a Gotham-based DC movie, which was later revealed by THR to be called Henchman. The project, which Cregger has been eager to pursue for years, focuses on a minor Gotham henchman who inadvertently incapacitates Batman, granting him the criminal notoriety he’s always pursued. The story also brings in well-known characters like Harley Quinn and the Joker. Cregger previously described the script as
“the best thing I’ve ever written,”
a statement made before his breakout successes with Barbarian and Weapons.— Zach Cregger, Writer/Director
With Paramount shaping new strategies and James Gunn’s authority reportedly over, this Gotham-centered film could see its prospects change dramatically, potentially finding a home with the next set of executives.
Expectations of Leadership Transitions and Creative Shifts
The sense of upheaval extends beyond Zach Cregger’s ambitions. A recent summary from Puck News captured the uncertainty surrounding James Gunn and Peter Safran’s roles at DC Studios.
“As things now stand at Warner Bros., James Gunn and Peter Safran control who directs DC movies… It sounds like change may be in the wind if, indeed, the Ellisons prevail.”
— Puck News
Industry insiders suggest that the SnyderVerse could be revisited under new leadership, reviving speculation about directions for the broader DC universe. Data shared by Ultra Biased Snyder Fan further underscores that Zach Cregger has already started pitching his DC project to Paramount.
Puck reports that Zach Cregger is already pitching a DC movie to Paramount.And that Paramount might not keep DC Studios as a greenlight authority, contrary to previous reports.https://t.co/qV4m7c8L3X pic.twitter.com/yGAztEJ86Q— Ultra Biased Snyder Fan (@SnyderRandom) December 3, 2025
This development raises further questions about whether DC Studios will retain any creative authority if Paramount’s acquisition proceeds, challenging previous assumptions about the continuity of greenlighting power.
The Path Forward for DC and Its Franchise Direction
The ongoing uncertainty over James Gunn DC leadership changes signals one of the most significant power shifts in the superhero world in recent years. With Paramount strategizing ahead of finalizing a deal for Warner Bros. Discovery, and with writers like Zach Cregger already being approached, the future direction of DC’s iconic characters and cinematic universe stands at a crossroads.
Should the Ellisons’ bid succeed and new leadership take the reins, fans and industry observers can expect major creative shakeups, possibly affecting everything from film development pipelines to which beloved characters receive fresh perspectives. As these changes unfold, the impact on the DC Universe and its devoted audience promises to be both far-reaching and deeply felt.
Puck reports that Zach Cregger is already pitching a DC movie to Paramount.
And that Paramount might not keep DC Studios as a greenlight authority, contrary to previous reports.https://t.co/qV4m7c8L3X pic.twitter.com/yGAztEJ86Q
— Ultra Biased Snyder Fan (@SnyderRandom) December 3, 2025
