Justice League dream team: Who should join the DCU's revamped roster?

Martian Manhunter - Stephan James

Fans have been waiting way too long to see Martian Manhunter finally get his live-action spotlight. The DCEU kept teasing us, but it wasn't until Zack Snyder's cut of Justice League that we actually got a proper look at the character, played by Harry Lennix—though, of course, it was super brief. It was great to see, but let's be real, it was also kind of annoying that it took that long.

A Martian Manhunter miniseries could be the perfect way to dive into J'onn's story. We're talking about the tragedy of Mars, the heartbreak of losing his family, and his journey to becoming Earth's low-key protector. A series would give us all the depth we need for such a layered character—showcasing his detective skills, his struggle with identity, and his bond with humanity. Forget a quick cameo in some ensemble flick—a miniseries would give J'onn the space to really shine before making his epic debut on the big screen in a Justice League reboot.

Imagine a series or show set in the Jim Crow era where J'onn has to navigate in a world where he isn't accepted as martian nor man, but carves a path as a hero no one truly knows exists. And who better to bring Martian Manhunter to life than Stephan James? You know him from If Beale Street Could Talk and Homecoming, where he showed off his emotional range—perfect for J'onn's deep empathy, sharp mind, and occasional loneliness.

James also kills it in the sci-fi series Beacon 23, where he stars alongside Lena Headey. He nails those intense, emotionally charged moments, which is exactly what a character like Martian Manhunter needs. Oh, and let's not forget—James was one of the finalists for James Gunn and Peter Safran's Green Lantern series. That alone says a lot about his ability to lead a major superhero project.