James Gunn has officially confirmed that Superman’s sequel will be titled Man of Tomorrow, releasing on July 9, 2027. Moreover, the title honors one of Superman’s most iconic comic book names. It may also draw inspiration from the classic Man of Tomorrow storyline. In the previous film, Superman (2025), audiences were introduced to David Corenswet’s Clark Kent. Alongside him, fans also met Lois Lane, Lex Luthor, Green Lantern, Hawkgirl, and Mister Terrific. Now, as a result, fans are eager to see which new DC characters will join the Man of Steel next.
Gunn’s storytelling often blends legacy with fresh ideas. Therefore, Man of Tomorrow will bring back familiar faces. At the same time, it will also introduce new heroes and villains. With that in mind, here are five DC characters who deserve a spot in the sequel.
Brainiac Could Define Man of Tomorrow’s Villain Storyline
One of the most iconic villains yet to appear in live-action Superman films, Brainiac is long overdue for a cinematic debut. In fact, he is known for his unmatched intellect and alien technology. As a result, Brainiac would not only test Superman’s physical strength but also rival Lex Luthor’s intelligence. Interestingly, Gunn has even hinted that Brainiac was considered during the development of Superman before the script went another direction. Therefore, his inclusion in Man of Tomorrow feels almost inevitable.
Metallo: A Kryptonite-Powered Threat for Man of Tomorrow
John Corben, also known as Metallo, is a cyborg whose Kryptonite-powered heart makes him one of Superman’s deadliest enemies. His presence would introduce a direct physical and emotional challenge, forcing Clark to confront the limits of his powers. Moreover, Metallo could serve as a secondary villain, following Gunn’s precedent of using multiple antagonists in Superman (2025).
Martian Manhunter in Man of Tomorrow: Expanding the DCU’s Alien Legacy
The Martian Manhunter, J’onn J’onzz, was subtly teased in Superman and could finally make his full debut in the sequel. As a fellow alien hero, J’onn would not only expand Superman’s alien identity theme but also help build toward the Justice League of America in the DCU. This inclusion would echo the animated Superman: Man of Tomorrow storyline, which explored extraterrestrial experiments and alliances.
Contessa: The New Face of LexCorp
After Lex Luthor’s downfall and arrest in Superman, someone will need to step into his place. Enter Contessa, a comic book character who rose to power within LexCorp. Her role could add a fresh corporate villain angle, challenging Superman in ways beyond brute strength. This would also ensure that Lex’s shadow still looms over Metropolis without repeating the same storyline.
Lobo: The Intergalactic Wild Card
Jason Momoa’s Lobo is set to debut in Supergirl (2026), making him a prime candidate to cross over into Man of Tomorrow. As an intergalactic bounty hunter, Lobo could arrive on Earth to target Superman, bringing chaos and unpredictable action. Interestingly, this would mirror the animated Superman: Man of Tomorrow film, where Lobo hunted the Man of Steel, creating the perfect opportunity for crossover synergy.
With Man of Tomorrow releasing in 2027, James Gunn has the chance to expand Superman’s world in bold new directions. By including a mix of legendary villains like Brainiac and Metallo, alongside wild cards like Lobo and Contessa, the sequel could strike the perfect balance of action, world-building, and character growth. Fans should prepare for a story that not only challenges Clark Kent but also sets the stage for the Justice League’s rise in the DCU.
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Patrick Webb