The DC Universe is full of iconic heroes, many of whom appeared in movies far older than many realize. While audiences associate most DC characters with modern blockbusters or the DCEU era, several actually made their big-screen debuts decades ago. While the DCU reboot reinvents many classic characters, earlier appearances prove the cinematic history of DC heroes is much deeper than most know. u3i6j

Robert Pattinson's Bruce Wayne deals with the next DC threat to Gotham City in a new The Batman 2 concept trailer. Matt Reeves' The Batman universe has been growing since 2022, and the world is actively waiting for his highly anticipated sequel, continuing the Dark Knight's crusade in the DC Elseworlds-based continuity. While The Batman 2 with Pattinson is still in pre-production, fans are continuing to share their theories and hopes about what will be taking place in the sequel.

Some superhero movie lines are so iconic, they become larger than the film itself. Across the Marvel Cinematic Universe and DC Universe, certain quotes have transcended their scenes to become cultural touchstones. These quotes capture the essence of heroes and villains alike – sometimes funny, sometimes profound, but always memorable. Whether whispered in the dark or shouted on the battlefield, these lines left a lasting impression.

Since the announcement that James Gunn was not only taking over the DC Universe but also directing a Superman film, fans have speculated where his usual friends who star in each of his films will fit in. His brother, Sean Gunn, is playing businessman Maxwell Lord. Nathan Fillion is playing Guy Gardner/Green Lantern. Alan Tudyk and Michael Rooker voice robots in Superman's Fortress of Solitude. There is one member of Gunn's circle, however, with substantial DC ties who had as-of-yet ed the franchise--that audiences knew of.

Despite ending nearly 15 years ago, Smallville remains a classic among both Superman fans and casual audiences. The hit series lasted for 10 seasons and starred Tom Welling as a young Clark Kent before donning his signature blue, red, and yellow suit. What set Smallville apart however is its split emphasis on Clark and his eventual nemesis, Lex Luthor, portrayed by Michael Rosenbaum. The two young men cross paths when the former saves the latter after his car careens into a lake, subsequently forming a brother-like friendship.

A new Peacemaker season 2 preview shares a closer look at the return of the DC Universe TV show. One of the biggest mysteries for the DCU's Chapter 1: "Gods and Monsters" is how DC Studios is integrating the second season of the Peacemaker TV show into James Gunn's DC reboot, since John Cena's titular character and several other DCEU figures will be returning. As Peacemaker season 2 is set to arrive in August, the world will be getting those answers soon, while also getting to see the continuation of Christopher Smith's journey.

Frank Grillo, the actor portraying Rick Flag Sr. in the DC Universe, has recently commented on the character's journey in the franchise as well as James Gunn's creative process in comparison to that of the MCU. Grillo is one of the actors who played a role in the first official DCU project, with his last appearance coming in the ending of Creature Commandos. Now that Rick Flag Sr. has been established in the franchise, he is set to appear in James Gunn's Superman movie. Grillo's third DCU appearance in 12 months for the actor and his character will then come in Peacemaker season 2.

Frank Grillo, who plays Rick Flag Sr. in the DC Universe, opens up about why he prefers his role in James Gunn's new superhero franchise in comparison to his time in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. While the MCU timeline has been around since 2008, some actors who appeared in various Marvel Studios productions have also ended up being part of DC's live-action legacy, too, including the newly launched DCU timeline. One of them is Grillo, who debuted as Rick Flag Sr. through animation in the Creature Commandos TV show, after portraying Brock Rumlow, a.k.a. Crossbones, in the MCU.

The DCEU made some fatal errors, but if theDCU is smart, it can look to these mistakes in order to deliver something so much better. DC has been a source for incredible stories for decades. With superheroes like Superman, Batman, and many more making their debuts in the 1930s and 1940s, DC has plenty of experience in what it takes to make a good story. However, this didn't translate as expected in the DCEU.

The DCU is expanding in 2026 with several projects due to be released throughout the year. It's been a long time coming, but from the initial announcement of plans to renew and revitilize DC's film and TV offerings under the watchful eyes of James Gunn and Peter Safran, the DCU has finally landed. In 2024, Creature Commandos served as the official debut program from the DCU, followed in 2025 by the tentpole film that is Superman.