James Gunn has clarified how DC Studios plans to balance its biggest superheroes with lesser-known characters, naming Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman as the DC Universe’s “diamond characters” while identifying Krypto, John Stewart and Peacemaker as characters who could reach similar status.
In a series of posts on Threads, the DC Studios co-chief pushed back against suggestions that the franchise’s original eight-to-10-year roadmap was focused only on connecting storylines. He explained that the plan also involved building the wider DC brand, encouraging creative freedom and developing characters with the potential to become major franchise attractions.
“The often cited ‘8 to 10 year roadmap’ originally pitched wasn’t only story points (although that was a part of it), but also the plan for DC as a whole, including focusing on diamond characters (Superman, Batman, WW) as well as smaller characters we could turn into diamonds (Krypto, John Stewart, Peacemaker),” Gunn wrote.
Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman Remain DC’s Core Heroes
The three heroes Gunn identified are among DC Comics’ most recognisable characters. Superman has already led the new DCU’s live-action launch, while Batman and Wonder Woman remain important parts of the franchise’s broader plans.
Gunn’s comments reinforce the idea that DC Studios intends to use its established heroes as foundations for a universe that can also support characters who have not traditionally occupied the same level of mainstream prominence.
However, Gunn did not announce new release dates or confirm when the DCU versions of Batman and Wonder Woman will make their live-action debuts. Their precise roles in upcoming projects remain subject to further announcements.
Krypto, John Stewart and Peacemaker Could Become Bigger Names
Gunn’s second group is particularly interesting because the three characters represent very different corners of the DCU.
Krypto, Superman’s superpowered dog, became a standout character in the new Superman era, attracting attention beyond the usual superhero audience. John Stewart, meanwhile, is one of DC’s best-known Green Lanterns and has been developed for the new universe through Lanterns. Peacemaker, played by John Cena, has already moved from supporting antihero to the lead of his own television series.
By describing them as characters DC could “turn into diamonds,” Gunn signalled that the studio sees room to build their popularity and storytelling potential further. He did not confirm specific new projects for any of the three as part of this statement.
A Connected Universe Without One Formula
Gunn also reiterated that not every DCU project needs to serve as a setup for a future crossover. Some stories can stand alone, while others contribute to a larger narrative, including the developing Superman saga.
That approach gives DC Studios room to explore different genres and tones rather than making every film or series feel identical. The challenge will be maintaining a coherent universe while allowing individual projects to succeed on their own.
For fans, Gunn’s comments offer a clearer picture of the DCU’s long-term philosophy: protect the prominence of its biggest heroes while giving less-established characters the opportunity to become the next major names in the franchise.
