If ‘Peacemaker’ and ‘The Suicide Squad’ Are Canon in the New DCU, James Gunn Explains

The new DC Universe (DCU), overseen by James Gunn and Peter Safran, is officially kicking off this week with Creature Commandos, while the highly anticipated Superman movie will serve as the “official” beginning of the interconnected DC Comics film and TV universe.

In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, James Gunn provided some clarity on the status of DC projects that predate the new DCU, including The Suicide Squad and Peacemaker. He revealed that these earlier works are considered “light canon.” Specifically, Peacemaker is mostly straightforward, except for a cameo appearance by the Justice League from the former DCEU in the first season’s finale, which is set in the past timeline but doesn’t yet exist in the new universe.

Gunn elaborated on the continuity: “If we mention [something from the past] in one of the new DCU shows [and movies], then it happened.” This means the elements that are referenced or integrated into the new DCU will be considered part of its story.

Looking ahead, Gunn also teased his upcoming projects, including Superman, which he described as “an enormous bear of a movie” and “completely different from this show.” He praised David Corenswet, the actor portraying Superman, calling him “one of the best actors I’ve ever worked with.” Gunn is confident that Corenswet’s performance will surprise and impress audiences.

Gunn also shared details about Peacemaker season two, promising that it will be a “really magical story” that takes a different approach from the first season, with Frank Grillo’s character, Rick Flag Sr., playing a major role in both Peacemaker and Creature Commandos.

Fans are eagerly awaiting both Superman and the return of Peacemaker in 2025, as Gunn’s new direction for the DC Universe unfolds.