James Gunn’s Superman may have flown into theaters with a $220 million global haul, but Warner Bros. Discovery has already set its sights on another hero to carry the DCU torch. According to multiple insiders, the studio is fast-tracking a new Wonder Woman film rather than immediately greenlighting a Superman sequel — a surprising move considering the Man of Steel just relaunched the entire franchise.
Despite a respectable domestic debut and a strong A- CinemaScore, Superman’s international numbers landed softer than expected, with just $95 million earned overseas. That hasn’t stopped Warner Bros. CEO David Zaslav from declaring the launch a success — calling it “just the first step” of a decade-long vision for the DCU. And while critics and fans largely responded positively, industry analysts note the reboot’s performance fell short of Zack Snyder’s Man of Steel when adjusted for inflation.
Even so, the studio isn’t hitting pause. Instead, it’s turning its attention to the Amazonian warrior. Sources close to DC Studios confirmed to Variety that a new Wonder Woman project is being actively developed ahead of any Superman follow-up. While no plot details or creative team have been announced, insiders say the studio sees an opportunity to reintroduce the character — and her mythology — to a global audience, especially after the mixed reception of Wonder Woman 1984. And boy oh boy, was that a truly mixed reception.
What’s Next for DC?
Though Gal Gadot’s future as Diana Prince remains unconfirmed, Gunn and Safran have made clear that the new Wonder Woman will be part of the DCU’s fresh continuity, alongside David Corenswet’s Superman and Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor. While Superman won’t be vanishing anytime soon — especially with Corenswet and Rachel Brosnahan (Lois Lane) locked into multi-film deals — the studio is reportedly holding off on announcing a direct sequel. According to sources, Gunn will continue overseeing broader DCU development while Matt Reeves’ The Batman sequel, which just delivered a script draft, remains another priority.
That said, it’s worth noting that Superman was still profitable after a reported $225 million production cost and $125 million marketing blitz — which included a high-profile, seven-figure stunt featuring a Superman figure floating atop London’s Shard. The film also triggered a modest stock bump for Warner Bros. Discovery, up 2.4% after opening weekend. Still, executives are keenly aware that Superman needs staying power, not just splashy headlines.
Superman is currently playing in theaters around the world.
via Collider