DC has found its Kevin Feige after months of searching for a new leader. The studio has named James Gunn, the Guardians of Galaxy writer-director who was also responsible for the revival of The Suicide Squad, and veteran executive Peter Safran as its new co-chairmen and CEOs.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Warner Bros. Discovery’s plan is to have Gunn leading the division’s creative vision, with Safran taking charge of money and production matters. The pair will oversee film, TV, and animation at DC Studios once they assume their new roles on 1 November, while continuing to work on other projects outside of DC.
“We’re honored to be the stewards of these DC characters we’ve loved since we were children,” said Gunn and Safran in a written statement. “Our commitment to Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, Harley Quinn, and the rest of the DC stable of characters is only equaled by our commitment to the wonder of human possibility these characters represent. We’re excited to invigorate the theatrical experience around the world as we tell some of the biggest, most beautiful, and grandest stories ever told.”
The news comes after Dan Lin was reportedly eyed for the role, which Walter Hamada held onto for four years before his recent departure ahead of Black Adam‘s theatrical release. Gunn’s arrangement is particularly interesting, considering his ongoing connection to Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy franchise.
Safran, meanwhile, has produced many films for DC and Warner Bros. Discovery, including Aquaman and its upcoming sequel, Shazam! and its follow-up, as well as The Suicide Squad and Peacemaker with Gunn.
With the duo’s combined expertise in the field, it seems DC Studios now has some ammunition to fight back against Marvel’s continued rise. Only time will be able to tell if the pick is the right one.