James Gunn’s Superman: Legacy has already added Hawkgirl, Mr. Terrific, and a Green Lantern cast, and now Gunn has confirmed another DC character’s involvement in the movie!
The superhero cosmos is expanding once more and this time, it’s with a fresh take on The Man of Steel. The star-studded lineup of James Gunn’s upcoming film, Superman: Legacy, has welcomed some dynamic new faces in recent days, as recently reported by Gunn himself on Threads. Actors Isabela Merced, Nathan Fillion, and Edi Gathegi are all set to join this new DCU James Gunn is intent on creating.
Merced, already known for her fearless talents, will be portraying Hawkgirl – an audacious hero known for her luminescent wings and dauntless spirit. This iteration of Hawkgirl was originally supposed to appear in last year’s Black Adam, but the DC hierarchy had other plans. However, given the current evolution of DC Studios, Merced’s Hawkgirl is expected to chart her own course, diverging from any previous storylines. Also, in a surprising twist, Nathan Fillion is set to dazzle us as Guy Gardner, a renowned personality from the Green Lantern Corps.
However, it seems the trio won’t be the only iconic DC characters also entering the new DCU via Superman: Legacy.
Jimmy Olsen will be making an appearance in Superman: Legacy
"Post by @jamesgunnView on Threads"
When asked by a fan on Threads about the potential involvement of Jimmy Olsen in Superman: Legacy, James Gunn confirmed that Jimmy will appear in the movie. This will mark the character’s first live-action appearance since Mehcad Brooks portrayed him in The CW’s Supergirl.
Jimmy Olsen is a supporting character in the DC Comics universe, best known as a friend and ally of Superman. He’s typically portrayed as a young photographer working for the Daily Planet, the newspaper where Clark Kent (Superman’s alter ego) works as a journalist.
Jimmy’s character has been used in a variety of ways throughout the years, sometimes providing comic relief, other times serving as a viewpoint character for the audience. He’s often seen with a distinctive signal watch, a gift from Superman, which he can use to call for help when he’s in danger. In various adaptations, Jimmy has been portrayed in different ways, ranging from a geeky, awkward youngster to a more serious, professional journalist. However, his loyalty to and friendship with Superman remain consistent.
Marking a fresh start for the DC Universe, Superman: Legacy will feature David Corenswet as Clark Kent, primed for his burgeoning journey as Superman, and Rachel Brosnahan as the hard-hitting journalist and Superman’s paramour, Lois Lane. The narrative will explore the multi-faceted life of Clark Kent as he strives to maintain his dual identity – an everyday journalist and the world’s most potent protector. Gunn is ushering in a new era of DC storytelling with Superman: Legacy and Warner Bros. seems to have cast its unwavering confidence into the project.
Who will be cast for OIsen’s role is still a mystery, but judging by the richly diverse cast and revamped narrative, July 11, 2025, could well be the dawn of a rejuvenated DC Universe we’ve all been waiting for very patiently.