James Gunn Is Talking To Big Name Actors About Joining The DC Universe, One Contender Reveals

The DC Universe may be getting ready to add a huge Hollywood name, as a popular actor reveals that he has been having conversations with James Gunn about a future collabroation. While the Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA strikes are still in effect, the new DC Universe is on its way from DC Studios, as several projects have at least gotten a few steps into their development processes. Superman: Legacy, being one of them, has its leading man as David Corenswet will star as the next Man of Steel, with several other superheroes joining the movie, too.

While there are more characters left to cast for Chapter 1, “Gods and Monsters,” many fans are curious about what actor will be the next to sign up for Gunn’s DC Universe. From several fan casting lists suggesting various actors for certain superheroes or villains, the world is paying close attention to DC Studios’ every move.

While nothing has been set in stone, it appears Gunn has a huge actor potentially joining the DC Universe. At Comic-Con Panama (via @Swshriv,) Giancarlo Esposito answered a fan when he was asked if there was any chance of him appearing in a DC Universe movie. It turns out that Esposito has been chatting with DC Studios, as he said, “I had been talking to James Gunn about the possibility – about being in a movie, so who knows? It could happen soon.” At the time of this story’s publication, Gunn nor anyone at DC Studios has commented on Esposito’s response.

Will Giancarlo Esposito Join James Gunn’s DC Universe And, If He Does, Who Will He Play?

It wouldn’t be shocking if Esposito has actually signed on for a role in the DC Universe but can’t formally announce it due to the guidelines of the SAG-AFTRA strike. If this is the case, it begs the question of who he might be playing in Gunn’s upcoming franchise. With someone as talented as Esposito, there are roles on both the hero and villain side that he would be perfect for in the DC Universe.

One long-running fan-cast for Esposito is the Superman villain Brainiac, who often mixes the actor’s iconic senses of calm intensity and intelligence. Alternately, an iconic Justice League hero that the Breaking Bad and The Boys alum would be a great fit for is Martian Manhunter, whose stoic personality and strong voice seem like a perfect fit. If DC Studios is tapping someone like Esposito, whether it is as a hero or villain, it would most likely be for an A-list character.

Of course, it’s also possible that Esposito is looking to break tradition and take on a role that better explores his range and the lighter side of his personality. The actor has the pedigree and acting chops to elevate non-superpowered characters like Perry White or Commissioner Gordon, both of which seem like exciting potential options. Whatever the potential result of this supposed discussion is, it would be a huge win for the DC Universe if Esposito does indeed land a role.