A Surprising and Popular DCU Hero Will Return in the ‘Superman’ Sequel

2023 feels like forever ago, but I still have fond memories of it. Especially going to the movies that year. Big blockbusters like Barbie and Oppenheimer ruled the summer. We finally got a sequel to Into the Spiderverse. It was just a fun time, and I went to the movies often. And while it may not have been my favorite film of the year, one movie-going experience stood above them all. The crowd was packed with energy and having an absolute blast, and that energy was infectious. Almost as much as a tiny blue scarab that imbues its holder with special powers.

Blue Beetle was a DCU movie that very easily could have come and gone without anyone remembering. The titular hero is not particularly well-known (despite having one of my favorite costume designs in comics), and it began production during a… tumultuous time at Warner Bros. While it didn’t light up the box office, fan and critical response was positive. People enjoyed the fun action, focus on family, and the fact that it proudly wore its Latino culture and influences on its sleeve.

One of the people who not only enjoyed it but saw potential was one of the new DCU heads: James Gunn. The writer/director/producer made it clear several years ago that, despite the film not feeling connected to any larger universe (and being much better for it), Blue Beetle would be a part of his DCU. Now, he’s set to make good on that promise next year with the release of Man of Tomorrow, as The Wrap reports that the already-packed sequel will also feature the hero.

Details are scarce, but this adds Blue Beetle to a cast that already includes heroes like Superman, Supergirl, Hawkgirl, Mr. Terrific, and two Green Lanterns. Most folks I know who aren’t big comic book readers didn’t really care for Superman featuring a bunch of heroes they assumed they were supposed to know, but didn’t. I actually like Gunn using characters like that in traditional supporting roles, but I understand the confusion it could bring and wonder if the sequel could face similar complaints.

I’ll be happy as can be, regardless. Xolo Maridueña was fantastic as Blue Beetle, and I’m glad to see him get more work. He could be the DCU equivalent of Spider-Man if they use him correctly. Also, who knows how long James Gunn’s DCU will last, given the constant uncertainty surrounding the WB/Paramount merger. He may as well go for broke while he has the chance.