James Gunn’s DC Reboot Confirmed to Feature 14 Marvel Actors!

by

The fact that 14 Marvel actors have been confirmed for James Gunn’s DC reboot project underscores the seamless fusion of his past and present endeavors.

In his work, Gunn values both nurturing relationships with friends and colleagues, as well as casting individuals who perfectly match their roles and are a joy to collaborate with. He emphasizes that a good fit for the role and an enjoyable working experience are crucial factors in his decision-making process.

Although some prominent DC Universe characters have ties with Marvel, not all of them do. For instance, Superman, portrayed by David Corenswet and Rachel Brosnahan in an upcoming project, has no history in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Nonetheless, there will still be recognizable faces as Superman graces the big screen this July, alongside other DC-related projects.

Every Marvel Star Appearing in James Gunn’s DC Universe

Pom Klementieff – Mantis / Unknown DCU Role

Pom Klementieff hasn’t officially joined James Gunn’s DCU yet, but the odds are looking good. 

The actress from Guardians of the Galaxy disclosed that she and Gunn have been discussing future arrangements, but no definitive plans have been finalized yet.

She also showed enthusiasm for a particular DC character she finds exceptionally “awesome,” yet fans must hold their breath slightly longer to discover who this could possibly be.

Maria Bakalova – Cosmo / Princess Ilana Rostovic

Maria Bakalova, recognized by Marvel enthusiasts as the voice behind Cosmo the Space Dog, has now transitioned to the world of James Gunn’s DC Universe.

In the animated series “Creature Commandos”, which debuted on Max in December 2024 and kickstarted the new universe, she portrayed Princess Ilana Rostovic. At first glance, her character seemed a benevolent ruler. However, as the story unfolded, it was revealed that Rostovic was a cunning, power-obsessed villain. Her deceit eventually led to a dramatic fall from grace, culminating in her downfall at the hands of the Creature Commandos.

Isabela Merced – Anya Corazon / Hawkgirl

Following her role as Anya Corazon in Madame Web, Isabela Merced will first appear in the DC Universe in James Gunn’s Superman film as Hawkgirl.

As a movie enthusiast, I can hardly contain my excitement about portraying Kendra Saunders – an unyielding, eternal fighter who’s deeply connected to both the Justice League and Justice Society of America. Having honed my skills across Marvel and DC films, I’m thrilled to be making a name for myself in the superhero world and joining the cast of HBO’s hit series “The Last of Us.

Nathan Fillion – Various MCU roles / Guy Gardner

In general terms, if James Gunn is involved, Nathan Fillion usually joins the project. After making minor appearances in all three Guardians of the Galaxy movies, Fillion is now slated to portray the bold character Guy Gardner in the upcoming Superman film.

In the forthcoming “Lanterns” TV series slated for 2026, Fillion will once again take on his character, marking him as a significant regular figure in the new DC Universe.

David Harbour – Red Guardian / Eric Frankenstein

David Harbour is currently juggling significant roles across the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and the DC Universe (DCU). Apart from reprising his role as Red Guardian in the upcoming “Thunderbolts” and confirmed appearance in “Avengers: Doomsday”, Harbour recently debuted in the DCU as Eric Frankenstein in the series “Creature Commandos”.

The gruesome portrayal of the transformed monster by him left a deep impact, and as Season 2 of Creature Commandos has been announced, it seems that his stint with DC Comics is merely beginning.

Frank Grillo – Crossbones / Rick Flag Sr.

In simpler terms, Frank Grillo, recognized as Crossbones from the Captain America movies, has now officially entered the DC Universe, taking on the role of Rick Flag Sr. He initially provided the voice for this character in Creature Commandos, and will continue to portray him in live-action for Superman. This makes Rick Flag Sr. the first new DCU character to premiere in animation and then transition to live action.

Grillo subtly suggested that Rick Flag Sr. has a significant part to play in the ongoing new universe. Furthermore, you can expect him in the second season of Peacemaker, exclusively on Max.

Sean Gunn – Kraglin & Rocket / Weasel, G.I. Robot, Maxwell Lord

Sean Gunn has consistently played key roles in his sibling, James Gunn’s, productions. This includes his on-screen portrayal of Kraglin and motion capture work for Rocket in the Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy series, as well as various parts he’s taken within the DC Universe.

In a future project, Sean Gunn is set to resume his role in the DC Universe after a brief hiatus, this time portraying Maxwell Lord. Earlier, he had reprised his quirky character from “The Suicide Squad” as Weasel in “Creature Commandos”, and lent his voice to G.I. Robot within the same series.

Alan Tudyk – Various MCU & DCU Roles

Over time, Alan Tudyk has subtly amassed a notable collection of supporting roles within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and the DC Extended Universe (DCU). In the MCU, he lent his voice to Alistair Krei in Big Hero 6, and made a brief appearance as Luke in Deadpool 2.

On the DC Universe’s side, Tudyk lent his voice to various characters in “Creature Commandos”, namely Doctor Phosphorus, Will Magnus, and Clayface, and he is set to reappear in “Superman” as Robot Four, one of the Kryptonian robots that tend to the wounded Kal-El within the Fortress of Solitude.

Edi Gathegi – Darwin / Mr. Terrific

Following his quick and contentious portrayal of Darwin in X-Men: First Class, which remains a subject of criticism by many fans for seemingly diminishing a character whose abilities render him invincible, actor Edi Gathegi now has another chance to shine in the realm of comic book films.

In the upcoming Superman movie, he’s been cast to portray the character, Mr. Terrific. This figure is a genius inventor and strategist from the comics, known for his intellect that rivals some of the sharpest minds in the DC Universe. He engages in combat with high-tech T-spheres by his side, making him one of the most intelligent characters within the DC Comics world.

Nicholas Hoult – Beast / Lex Luthor

Actor Nicholas Hoult, recognized primarily for his role as the mutant Hank McCoy (Beast) in the contemporary X-Men series by Fox, will be transitioning to embody the infamous DC villain, Lex Luthor, in the upcoming Superman production.

It’s worth noting that before, Hoult tried out for both Batman and Superman roles, but instead, he secured the part of the cunning and power-seeking adversary. In the upcoming DC Universe, his portrayal of Luthor, one of Superman’s most formidable foes, is anticipated to make a substantial impact.

Jennifer Holland – Kwol / Emilia Harcourt 

Jennifer Holland has solidified her status across both the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and the DC Extended Universe (DCU). In the MCU, she made a brief appearance as Kwol, an OrgoCorp employee in “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3”. However, it’s her role as Emilia Harcourt, a tough A.R.G.U.S. agent, that has become more widely recognized. She was initially introduced in “The Suicide Squad” within the DCU.

Over several ventures such as “Peacemaker,” “Black Adam,” and “Shazam! Fury of the Gods,” Holland repeatedly played her role. She’s set to reappear again in “Peacemaker” Season 2. As a frequent collaborator (and wife) of James Gunn, Holland has established a steady presence in his growing universe of superheroes.

Michael Rooker – Yondu / Sam Fitzgibbon

Michael Rooker is well recognized among comic book enthusiasts for his captivating roles, particularly as the blue-skinned, melodious Ravager Yondu in Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy movies. His portrayal of Yondu continues to be one of the most heartfelt and admired performances within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

In a distinctive fashion, Rooker infused energy into the DCU, portraying Sam Fitzgibbon in “Creature Commandos“, lending his voice for the character in the episode titled “A Toast to the Tin Man.

Linda Cardellini – Laura Barton & Lylla / Elizabeth Bates

Linda Cardellini has stealthily assumed a significant number of roles spanning both the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and the DC Universe. In the MCU, she embodied Laura Barton in “Avengers: Age of Ultron”, “Avengers: Endgame”, and the “Hawkeye” series on Disney+.

Additionally, she lent her voice to Lylla, a compassionate yet sorrowful best friend of Rocket Raccoon, in the movie Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.

On the DC side, Cardellini portrayed Elizabeth Bates in the series ‘Creature Commandos‘, an attorney from the Freedom Project who champions the cause of Weasel.

Mikaela Hoover – Nova Prime’s Assistant, Floor the Rabbit / Cat Grant

As a loyal collaborator over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside James Gunn on numerous projects within both Marvel and DC universes.

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), she had a short stint as Nova Prime’s Aide in “Guardians of the Galaxy” and lent her voice to the character Floor, a kind-hearted but sad rabbit who was one of Rocket’s childhood friends, in “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3”. On the DC Universe side, Hoover is stepping into a larger part as Cat Grant from The Daily Planet in “Superman”.

Read More

2025-04-30 06:48