Superman's Return: James Gunn Reveals When to Expect It

James Gunn has officially teased Superman’s return to the DC Universe (DCU) — and it’s happening sooner than most fans predicted.Even more surprising, Superman might appear next outside the big screen.

Superman’s Return Is Happening Sooner Than Expected

In an interview with Phase Zero, Gunn offered a surprising timeline for Superman’s next appearance after the release of Superman (2025). When asked when fans would see Superman again, Gunn initially responded:

“A couple of years. Well, no, you might see him… You’ll see him before then.”

He then added:

“Yeah, you’ll see the character before then.”

This suggests Superman’s return could happen much earlier than expected. It might come through animation, a cameo, or an early team-up project.

Where Could We See Superman’s Return Next in the DCU?

David Corenswet’s Superman will officially debut in Superman on July 11, 2025, kicking off DCU Chapter One: Gods and Monsters. Although DC hasn’t confirmed a direct sequel yet, several upcoming DCU titles could feature Superman’s return sooner than expected.

Here are the most likely appearances to watch for:

Peacemaker Season 2 (August 2025) – A surprise cameo by Superman could tie the DCU more tightly together, especially with James Gunn at the helm.
Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow (2026) – Rumors suggest Corenswet might make a brief but meaningful appearance in Kara Zor-El’s solo adventure.
Animated projects – Titles like My Adventures with Green Lantern and DC Super Powers may explore Superman’s return in stylized, non-live-action form.

These options suggest that Superman’s return may happen beyond theaters, appearing across multiple formats. He’s clearly becoming a central figure in the expanding DCU.

Gunn on Superman’s Hypno Glasses and Comic Accuracy

In a separate interview with ComicBook.com, James Gunn emphasized his commitment to honoring classic comic book details in the new DCU. One surprising example he revealed is Superman’s hypno-glasses — a rarely used but canon feature introduced in Superman Vol. 1 #330 (1978).

“It’s kind of been forgotten, but that’s from the comics,”

Gunn noted, crediting writer Tom King for reminding him.

This small but significant addition shows that Superman’s return under Gunn’s leadership won’t just focus on spectacle — it will also celebrate the deeper lore that longtime fans cherish.

By blending authenticity with fresh storytelling, Gunn appears intent on giving Superman the most comic-faithful interpretation the DCU has ever seen.

Corenswet’s Clark Kent Stuns James Gunn

Talking about the casting of David Corenswet as Superman, Gunn praised how drastically he transforms between Clark Kent and the Man of Steel:

“He looks the most different as Clark Kent to Superman, even more so than [Christopher] Reeve.”

Such visual contrast may help modern audiences better accept the long-debated secret identity trope.

James Gunn’s comments make one thing clear: Superman’s return won’t be limited to solo films. Instead, the Man of Steel will be a recurring presence throughout the new DC Universe.

Superman will appear in animation, team-ups, and surprise cameos. He will help shape the DCU’s future across various formats and storylines.