Following the impressive $217 million global opening of Superman, Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav is now celebrating a significant moment for the studio—marking, without a doubt, a true DC Studios‘ comeback. Moreover, with Superman leading the charge, Zaslav firmly believes this is just the beginning of a bold new era for the DC Universe.
Three years ago, Zaslav made a pivotal decision by appointing James Gunn and Peter Safran as co-heads of DC Studios. Since then, they have worked closely to unify the franchise’s creative direction. Now, following Superman’s overwhelming success, Zaslav reflects on the impact of that choice and what’s next for the DC Universe.
“Three years ago, I hired James Gunn and Peter Safran to reimagine and unify the creative direction of DC under one leadership team, by breathing new life and excitement into one of the most iconic storytelling franchises in the world. James and Peter’s commitment to honoring the legacy of the DC Universe while forging something new and enthralling is inspired.”
James Gunn’s Passion Kicks Off DC Studios’ Comeback
During his reflection, Zaslav recalled his first conversation with Gunn and, more importantly, how Gunn’s deep emotional connection to the DC Universe ultimately convinced him that Gunn was the right person to lead DC Studios’ comeback and guide its creative rebirth.
“I clearly remember my first meeting with James three years ago. During our conversation, he spoke about growing up in Missouri and, more specifically, how the characters of the DC Universe weren’t just stories to him—they felt like family. His personal bond with these DC heroes was incredibly powerful, and from that moment on, I knew without a doubt that James was the right person to bring them to life. Moreover, his love for the DC world runs deep, and it shines through in every single frame of his work.”
As a result, according to Zaslav, that passion now radiates clearly on screen.
“This weekend, we watched Superman soar as James Gunn’s passion and vision came to life on the big screen. Superman is just the first step. Over the next year alone, DC Studios will introduce the films Supergirl and Clayface in theaters and the series Lanterns on HBO Max, all part of a bold ten-year plan. The DC vision is clear, the momentum is real, and I couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead.”
In fact, the results strongly back up that statement:
- It’s James Gunn’s second-biggest domestic opening, behind Guardians Vol. 2
- Peter Safran’s biggest-ever domestic opening as a producer
- WBD’s No. 3 opening of 2025, behind only Minecraft and Lilo & Stitch
Supergirl, Clayface & Lanterns: What’s Next for DC Studios
Looking ahead, Zaslav laid out the upcoming steps in DC Studios’ Comeback. Over the next year, fans can expect:
- Supergirl (film)
- Clayface (film)
- Lanterns (HBO Max series)
Notably, each of these projects is a key component of the bold 10-year plan that is currently being executed by DC Studios. As the announcement drew to a close, Zaslav confidently concluded his remarks with not only a strong sense of optimism but also, moreover, genuine excitement about what lies ahead in DC Studios’ ambitious and evolving future.
“The DC vision is clear, the momentum is real, and I couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead.”
With Superman leading the charge and, moreover, more heroes waiting in the wings, DC Studios is clearly entering a bold and promising new era.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on DCU’s upcoming projects, and subscribe to DC Updates’ YouTube channel.