Netflix CEO Highlights ‘Penguin’ — Not Gunn’s DCU

I recently heard from Netflix’s Ted Sarandos about their plans for DC content once the Warner Bros. Discovery deal is finalized, and it sounds like they’re heading in a direction separate from what James Gunn is building. Apparently, don’t expect to see any of Gunn’s DCU shows popping up on Netflix anytime soon. They seem to be charting their own course with the DC universe, and it won’t involve Gunn’s vision.

Sarandos advised investors to consider expanding popular franchises beyond major films. He highlighted the upcoming Penguin series as a good example, noting that similar strategies with earlier DC properties have already led to successful TV shows.

No Mention of Gunn’s DCU Projects

Notably absent from Sarandos’ comments:

  • Gunn
  • The DCU
  • Creature Commandos
  • Peacemaker

It’s surprising that Netflix didn’t mention anything from James Gunn’s planned DC Universe, especially since he’s presented it as the future of the brand. Instead, the Netflix CEO chose to talk about a series connected to Matt Reeves’ work, rather than any of Gunn’s upcoming projects.

This probably clarifies the promotional article published by Bloomberg, where Gunn and Safran seemed to be defending their positions.

Weak Performance Undercuts Gunn’s Shows

Let’s be real, Creature Commandos just didn’t find an audience. And while Peacemaker Season 2 had a little bump with its final episode, even that couldn’t save it. Viewership actually dropped by almost 40% throughout the season, and honestly, it feels like the show’s been quietly canceled. It’s a shame, but the numbers don’t lie.

Even though James Gunn claims otherwise, the fact that Peacemaker hasn’t been renewed for a third season suggests it wasn’t as successful as he portrays.

Netflix highlighting the film Penguin instead of projects from James Gunn suggests the streamer believes DC’s most promising path lies in well-established, realistic stories directed by experienced filmmakers – rather than Gunn’s currently struggling DC Universe.

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2025-12-07 02:31