Two key figures from the Aquaman films have cast doubt on returning for James Gunn’s rebooted DC Universe. This may disappoint fans of the DCEU’s oceanic saga. Both James Wan and Patrick Wilson have now shared candid insights about their future involvement.
Why an Aquaman Return Seems Unlikely
James Wan’s Aquaman (2018) remains DC’s highest-grossing film ever, earning $1.152 billion worldwide. Wan directed both it and its sequel, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom (2023), which concluded the DCEU’s storyline. Jason Momoa led the films as Arthur Curry, with Patrick Wilson portraying his half-brother Orm (Ocean Master).
While Momoa is confirmed to be moving forward in the DCU as Lobo rather than Aquaman, both Wan and Wilson admit that a return seems unlikely. Patrick Wilson explained to ComicBook.com:
“No, never met him. So I have no relationship there. Obviously, Peter [Safran], his partner, is our Conjuring producer, so I’ve known Peter forever. I mean, we said what we needed to say with Orm, so yeah, I love the guy, love the character.”
Wan also shared his perspective, noting he has only had brief discussions with Safran and is taking a step back from directing:
“I haven’t really. Peter and I have just chatted briefly on the surface, but I’ve actually just taken a bit of a hiatus from directing and just taking a break for my mental health because directing just takes so much out of you physically and mentally, and emotionally. And so, who knows? Never say never. But for now, I’m slowly getting back in there. I tell you what I would be keen to do is, I love the idea of maybe getting back into horror.”
Aquaman’s Legacy and Future in the DCU
For now, it seems the Aquaman corner of the DCEU has closed. Momoa is moving on to explore new roles. Wan is stepping away from blockbuster projects. Wilson appears content, leaving Orm’s story where it ended. Still, the impact of the Aquaman films on the DCU remains significant. They set a new standard for underwater action and world-building in superhero cinema.
Fans can still revisit the adventures of Arthur Curry and Orm, as both Aquaman films are currently streaming on HBO Max. Additionally, Wan and Wilson reunite in their upcoming collaboration, The Conjuring: Last Rites, which hits theaters on September 5, 2025, offering fans another glimpse of their creative synergy.
Although the future of Aquaman in the DCU remains uncertain, one thing is clear: the legacy of these characters and the films themselves will continue to influence upcoming DC projects and inspire fans worldwide.
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