James Gunn DCU Flash plans have sparked new debate about the future of the speedster in the emerging DC Universe, raising questions about whether Wally West will take on the mantle. With Gunn’s reboot introducing fresh faces on screen, the focus now turns to which version of The Flash will lead in the franchise’s next chapter.
Gunn’s Vision for The Flash in the DCU
Since James Gunn initiated a sweeping reboot of the DC cinematic universe, many iconic characters have awaited their debut under his leadership. Chapter 1 of the DCU, titled Gods and Monsters, is structured within a timeline where superheroes already exist, giving the creative team wide latitude with established and emerging favorites. However, The Flash is one major figure yet to be recast and integrated into the new continuity, fueling considerable speculation among fans and industry observers.
In the previous live-action incarnations, Barry Allen was portrayed by Grant Gustin on CW’s The Flash series, and Ezra Miller starred as Barry Allen in the 2023 feature film. Recently, new fan-driven art has surfaced, credited to @horrific.heroics, showcasing Jacob Bertrand of Netflix’s Cobra Kai as Wally West. This reimagined version features the distinctive 2016 DC Rebirth suit, adding fuel to rumors about Wally West potentially succeeding Barry Allen.
Hints from James Gunn and Franchise Figures
During a public discussion in late 2025, Gunn was asked to share his preferences regarding Flash’s on-screen persona:
“In terms of your preference for people that run fast, do you like them blonde or as redheads?”
This was a pointed reference to Barry Allen and Wally West respectively, addressing the choice between the two most prominent speedsters. Gunn responded without committing, stating,
“I like them both. I like blondes and redheads.”
— James Gunn, DCU head.
Following the disappointing box office performance of The Flash film, Gunn clarified the status of future plans for the character in 2024, indicating that developments have paused for the time being:
“And as for the Flash we’re holding a beat on development.”
— James Gunn, DCU head.
Potential for Wally West and Changing the Mantle
The art circulating on social media depicts Jacob Bertrand as Wally West in the signature DC Rebirth costume, hinting at how the franchise might adapt the Flash mythology. The TV version of Wally, played by Keiynan Lonsdale, was introduced in the second season of CW’s The Flash and quickly became a fan favorite. Meanwhile, Bertrand addressed superhero casting rumors in a 2024 interview with ScreenRant’s Grant Hermanns, displaying candor about his readiness to enter the world of capes and masks.
No, I haven’t quite yet. I would need to get my knowledge up on superheroes first. I was never the biggest comic book kid growing up. Xolo really is the person that made that happen, though. Even when I first met him, he was constantly saying, “That’s my dream role. I want to play Blue Beetle, I want to play Blue Beetle.” So, kudos to him, he found the thing he was super passionate about and got to play it. You know what, if that ever happened, I would have to play a villain. I would love to be the one trying to kill Blue Beetle. I think that’d be funny. [Chuckles]
— Jacob Bertrand, actor
That’s my dream role. I want to play Blue Beetle, I want to play Blue Beetle.
— Xolo Maridueña, actor, via Jacob Bertrand’s account
Bertrand’s openness highlights the interest and apprehension potential newcomers feel in joining the storied pantheon of DC heroes. His ties with Xolo Maridueña, who plays Blue Beetle in Gunn’s universe, further connect him to the current trajectory of DC casting decisions.
The Flash Family and Parallel Legacy
Other Justice League members are already in place in Gunn’s universe, with Kyle Chandler set to portray Hal Jordan for HBO’s upcoming Lanterns. This suggests a more mature roster of heroes, which could make Wally West a natural bridge to a new generation. Fans have theorized that, with Barry Allen potentially depicted as older, Wally’s ascendancy as The Flash feels increasingly plausible.
The existing Arrowverse series handled the concept of the “Flash Family,” regularly featuring a range of speedsters, something the previous big-screen continuity never fully embraced. In the DCU, there is ample room for both Barry and Wally to be active simultaneously, mirroring periods in the comics and offering dynamic interplay that could revitalize the franchise’s approach to legacy and teamwork.
What Lies Ahead for The Flash in the DCU
While there are no official updates on standalone projects for The Flash under James Gunn DCU Flash plans, the evolving lineup of heroes suggests surprises may still be in store. Already, Supergirl headlines a major release on June 26, and anticipation is mounting for Lanterns to premiere with a fresh take on heroic storytelling in the DC universe.
Looking ahead, speculation and excitement remain high. The decision to potentially introduce Wally West as The Flash, rather than defaulting to Barry Allen, marks a significant pivot in DC’s storytelling strategy and opens the door to fresh character growth. This approach caters to long-time comic fans and new audiences alike, ensuring that the future of the Flash mantle will be a closely watched evolution in Gunn’s DCU.
