A new rumor suggests a surprising DC Comics character could be joining Superman: Man of Tomorrow!
As fans are expecting Superman: Man of Tomorrow to start up production, there’s buzz on what James Gunn’s sequel will be about. It’s confirmed that the story will feature classic Superman villain Brainiac (Lars Eidinger) invading Earth, forcing Superman (David Corenswet) and Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) to work together to stop him.
With rumors of Gunn wanting to cast a new female supporting character, it didn’t take long for fans to jump to the conclusion that it was Wonder Woman. Gunn himself has openly debunked that, saving Wonder Woman for her own film. However, a report indicates it’s a different superstrong lady coming to the DCU.
Per Nexus Point Today, the mystery role is that of Maxima. Created by longtime Superman writer Roger Stern and introduced in 1988, she’s the queen of the planet Almerac, known for her lush red hair, arrogant attitude, and often diva behavior. She set her sights on Superman as her mate due to his Kryptonian heritage and wouldn’t take no for an answer.
Despite coming off as an antagonist, Maxima would soften and even join the Justice League. Her notable powers include superhuman strength, durability, speed, flight, telekinesis, telepathy, mind control, energy projection, force fields, and teleportation. That makes her a very powerful enemy and ally alike.
The character has appeared in Superman media before. She was played by Charlotte Sullivan in an episode of Smallville and played by wrestler Eve Torres Garcia in Supergirl. She's also appeared in a few Superman animated series.
Maxima’s presence would make sense if, as fans believe, the movie adapts the 1992 Superman crossover “Panic in the Sky.” The tale had Brainiac invade Earth with Maxima forced on his side after the alien conquered Almerac. Eventually, Maxima turned on Brainiac to help Superman’s forces win.
It’s possible the movie follows the same path with Maxima joining Brainiac, both to protect her world and desiring Superman as a “perfect mate.” That would undoubtedly lead to clashes between them, not to mention a unique love triangle with Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan). It can also lead to Maxima becoming an unlikely ally and a figure in future DCU projects.
This is speculation at the moment with no official casting yet. However, it would not only fit the storyline, but Maxima is just the sort of lower-tier DC Comics character Gunn loves to spotlight. It would be a fun choice, so fans can hope this Superman character ends up being a surprise hit in the film.
Superman: Man of Tomorrow is set to premiere in theaters July 9, 2027.