James Gunn Blue Beetle fans may be getting closer to seeing Xolo Maridueña’s Jaime Reyes back in action within the new DC Universe (DCU). Although Blue Beetle launched in 2023 under the former DC leadership as a direct-to-streaming concept, James Gunn has consistently emphasized that Jaime Reyes represents the inaugural character of the reimagined DCU. Despite underperforming at the box office, the film earned solid critical reception and ended with a post-credit scene confirming that the original Blue Beetle, Ted Kord, remains alive, setting up potential future developments.
Director Suggests Ongoing Talks About Jaime Reyes’ Future
Ángel Manuel Soto, the director of Blue Beetle, recently addressed the character’s prospects in the evolving DC Universe during an interview with The Direct. While promoting his upcoming film, The Wrecking Crew, Soto acknowledged that there have been discussions about continuing Jaime Reyes’ story, though he remained tight-lipped about specifics.
“Yeah, there have been conversations, and that’s all I can say. I mean, that’s fair. Conversations have been happening.” – Ángel Manuel Soto, Director
Soto also highlighted that James Gunn has been vocal about his intentions to maintain Blue Beetle’s presence within the DCU, hinting that positive developments are on the horizon for Jaime Reyes and his family.
“And there’s definitely… James [Gunn] has been very vocal about keeping Blue Beetle in the DCU. So good things are coming for Jaime Reyes and his family.” – Ángel Manuel Soto, Director
Animated Blue Beetle Sequel in Development Amid DC Studios Plans
According to Deadline’s June 2024 report, DC Studios is working on an animated sequel series for Blue Beetle that will feature Xolo Maridueña reprising his role as Jaime Reyes. The series is set to stream on HBO Max, with Miguel Puga directing and Cristian Martinez writing. Ángel Manuel Soto and Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer, who were involved in the original film, will serve as executive producers for the sequel, ensuring creative continuity.
Though official updates about this sequel have been limited, Maridueña mentioned last year to The Direct that the show is targeting a 2026 release. Whether this timeline remains intact is still uncertain, as DC Studios has not provided recent confirmations about the project.
Sequel Could Expand Blue Beetle Mythos and DCU Connections
The anticipated animated sequel is expected to delve deeper into the post-credit revelation that Ted Kord, the original Blue Beetle, is alive. This development offers an opportunity to introduce Ted Kord to wider audiences, potentially strengthening Blue Beetle’s role within James Gunn’s DCU. Ted Kord’s continuing story is particularly significant due to his close association with Booster Gold, who himself will star in an upcoming HBO Max series.
Fans previously speculated that Xolo Maridueña might make a surprise appearance in Peacemaker Season 2. However, DC Studios seems intent on reserving his return for the new animated series, which could debut as early as later this year.
Blue Beetle’s Role Amidst Upcoming DCU Releases
James Gunn has publicly stated his commitment to releasing two films and two streaming series annually under the DCU banner. For 2026, two films—Supergirl and Clayface—are scheduled, alongside one HBO Max show, Lanterns. This leaves room for Blue Beetle’s animated sequel to arrive, possibly fulfilling Gunn’s vision of maintaining a steady stream of DCU content.
The series will also simplify casting by centralizing characters like Ted Kord, who could appear in Booster Gold and other DCU projects. Concept art for this missing hero in the original film bore a striking resemblance to Jason Sudeikis, known for his role in Ted Lasso, sparking speculation that Sudeikis might take on the role of Ted Kord.
Given the interest from both creators and fans, the continuation of Blue Beetle’s story through animated storytelling may prove vital to expanding the DCU’s narrative depth and coherence in coming years.
