With James Gunn steering the new DC Universe toward a much-needed reboot, fans are voicing strong opinions on the Arrowverse characters James Gunn should add to DCU. The previous DC Extended Universe struggled to deliver consistency on the big screen, but the Arrowverse managed to introduce a host of heroes and villains that developed strong followings, and many believe it’s time for those standouts to make the leap to the movies.
The Arrowverse franchise spanned from 2012 to 2023, offering comic book enthusiasts six connected shows and a lengthy slate of episodes. While not every installment was universally praised, the series did create a deep roster of compelling characters. These figures could lend new energy and depth to the rebooted DCU, addressing long-standing fan demands and offering creative opportunities James Gunn and his team are well positioned to explore.
Why the Arrowverse Remains Important for DCU’s Future
Following the uneven track record of the DC Extended Universe, highlighted by setbacks from films like Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice and a chaotic Justice League release, James Gunn’s challenge is to restore faith and excitement among fans. While some elements such as Amanda Waller and Peacemaker have already found their place under Gunn’s vision, the Arrowverse’s rich TV roster presents untapped potential for fresh stories, dynamic personalities, and dramatic conflicts in the DCU.
Bringing a selection of Arrowverse favorites to the big screen could energize the franchise, connecting film and television universes while satisfying fans who want their beloved characters given new life. Here are seven heroes and villains from the Arrowverse that fans and many observers believe should headline the next chapter of DC films.
1. The Flash: A Hero Ready for Revival
Barry Allen, as portrayed in the Arrowverse, offered viewers a growth arc from uncertain newcomer to the defender of multiple universes. This version of the Flash, played out across numerous seasons, demonstrated a journey marked by self-doubt, deep loss, and, ultimately, a hard-earned confidence. In comparison, his cinematic counterpart in the DCEU received mixed reactions and a less developed story.
Reviving the Arrowverse’s Barry Allen for the DCU would mean placing a well-loved character at the forefront of new adventures, freed from previous storytelling limitations. With the franchise’s direction under Gunn, The Flash could finally achieve the narrative heft and excitement he deserves, recapturing the spirit that made his TV arc unique for fans of superhero drama.
2. Constantine: The Antihero with Unfinished Business
Matt Ryan’s portrayal of John Constantine survived a network cancellation and flourished in Legends of Tomorrow, standing out for his mix of dark humor and supernatural grit. After taking on the role in live action and continuing the character through animated features, Ryan’s Constantine became a staple of the Arrowverse’s wilder, risk-taking style.
This take on Constantine proved so enduring that many see Ryan as the ideal choice to return to the DCU, bringing with him a complex antihero often missing from superhero lineups on screen. Constantine’s blend of magic, wit, and skepticism would offer a distinctive flavor to the DCU, and fans hope that Gunn and his collaborators will choose to revisit this iteration in future projects.
3. Ray Palmer: The Atom Deserves a Spot on the Big Screen
Ray Palmer, also known as the Atom, became an audience favorite through his evolution from Oliver Queen’s rival in Arrow to a core member of the Waverider crew. As a genius inventor and someone dedicated to maintaining order in the timeline, Ray brought both comic relief and scientific expertise to the ensemble.
With Gunn already planning to introduce brilliant minds like Mister Terrific into the emerging DCU, incorporating a character like Ray Palmer would bring diversity to the roster of brains and brawn. In addition, actor Brandon Routh’s previous experience in DC films could provide a bridge between familiar performances and the ambitions of the reboot, making Ray an appealing candidate for a second cinematic life.
4. Deathstroke: A Villain Worthy of Redemption
The Arrowverse is often associated with its heroes, but its most memorable villains made a significant impact. Chief among them is Deathstroke, who began as one of Oliver Queen’s fiercest adversaries and later took on a more ambiguous antihero role. This dynamic shifted narrative expectations and highlighted the potential for complex storytelling within the franchise.
The DCEU’s attempt to introduce Slade Wilson failed to leave much of an impression, so bringing the Arrowverse version of Deathstroke into the DCU would offer a chance to reinvigorate a classic villain. Featuring him would not only satisfy fans disappointed by previous adaptations, but also demonstrate the DCU’s willingness to take risks with layered characters that straddle the line between good and evil.
5. Kate Kane: A Vigilante Story Needing More Time
Kate Kane’s arrival onto the Arrowverse scene sparked immediate attention, especially during the Elseworlds crossover event. Unfortunately, behind-the-scenes complications led to her reduced role after her solo series’ first season, leaving viewers feeling her journey was unfinished and her potential unfulfilled.
Despite such disruptions, Kate remains a compelling figure—her presence in Gotham adds diversity and new perspectives to the city’s ever-growing cast of vigilantes. Giving Kate Kane a renewed spotlight within the DCU could let her character explore new challenges, relationships, and bring to life stories that TV never had the chance to develop.
6. Reverse-Flash: Bringing Fear to the Flash’s World
The Arrowverse delivered multiple incarnations of Reverse-Flash, but Tom Cavanagh’s chilling portrayal stands out. As a relentless and manipulative foe, Reverse-Flash continually set new stakes for Barry Allen, elevating their conflicts from simple physical battles to psychological warfare.
The upcoming DCU seems likely to examine the origins and challenges surrounding the Flash’s powers and backstory. Should that happen, few characters can add as much tension and drama as a well-executed Reverse-Flash—especially if Cavanagh is involved. Reintroducing this villain could help shape a darker, more intense chapter for the new cinematic universe.
7. Jesse Quick: An Overlooked Speedster Deserving Justice
Among the many speedsters to grace the Arrowverse, Jesse Quick distinguished herself through her emotional journey and determination. Her efforts to reunite with her father offered one of the more poignant stories in the series, only to be undone by the Anti-Monitor’s destructive rampage that erased her reality completely.
Sadly, Jesse never had a real chance to shine following these events, representing a missed opportunity for fans who appreciated her straightforward attitude and refusal to blend in with other fast-moving heroes. If James Gunn and his colleagues embraced Jesse Quick for the DCU, she could become both a fan favorite and a symbol of the franchise’s willingness to develop underappreciated characters.
The Lasting Influence of the Arrowverse on Future DCU Plans
As streaming platforms like Netflix continue to circulate the Arrowverse series, the appetite for stories involving the likes of Barry Allen, John Constantine, and Deathstroke continues to grow. With Gunn’s creative leadership and an audience eager for more complex, resonant heroes and villains, these seven Arrowverse characters could help set the new DCU apart. Their inclusion would signal a franchise ready to revisit what worked, learn from missed opportunities, and craft a cinematic future where high stakes and strong narratives are the norm.
It remains to be seen which direction James Gunn and his creative partners will take, but with so many iconic personalities on the table, the Arrowverse’s legacy could gain new life and relevance in the next decade of DC storytelling.
