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James Gunn Skips Darkseid and Thanos in New DC Universe

by Hannah Feb 13,2026

James Gunn has officially confirmed that his newly established DC Universe will not feature Darkseid as its primary antagonist.

During an interview with several YouTube channels specializing in decoding Easter eggs within superhero franchises, Gunn explained that since Zack Snyder had previously planned—and briefly introduced—Darkseid as the overarching villain in the DCEU, and due to the character's parallels with Marvel's Thanos, the DCU is exploring other narrative directions.

In conversation with Erik Voss of New Rockstars, along with Heather Antos and Ryan Arey from ScreenCrush, Gunn noted that "positioning Darkseid as the central villain at this stage doesn't quite fit our current vision."

Speculation about Darkseid potentially becoming the DCU's main antagonist arose following the conclusion of Peacemaker Season 2.

Warning! Spoilers for the ending of Peacemaker Season 2 ahead:

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