DC’s Biggest Villain Is Officially Coming To James Gunn’s DCU Earlier Than Expected

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Fans will soon meet one of DC’s most iconic villains much sooner than anticipated, thanks to a recent development. So far, three DC Universe projects – Creature Commandos, Superman, and Peacemaker season 2 – have been well-received. These releases have also introduced several important characters who will play a role in the larger DC Universe storyline, beyond just the main heroes.

So far, all the projects within this franchise have hinted at or connected to upcoming DC movies and shows, whether through shared characters or storylines. But a major, overarching villain for the entire DC Universe hasn’t been introduced yet. Now, it looks like a new, ambitious TV series will bring DC Comics’ most famous villain into the DCU.

The DC Universe’s New TV Show Brings DC’s Biggest Villain To The Franchise

On June 12th, 2025, DC announced they were developing an animated series based on Mister Miracle. The show will be adapted from the critically acclaimed 12-issue comic book series by Tom King and Mitch Gerads. From the beginning, this project was highly anticipated, and Tom King—a key creative force within the DC Universe—is serving as its showrunner.

For those familiar with the original comic, DC is sharing a real treasure with a wider audience. Mister Miracle is a powerful and moving story about depression, family trauma, and mental health, ultimately revealing the core of its superhero. It’s a story deeply focused on its characters, but also expands on the larger DC universe, particularly the world of the New Gods.

James Gunn recently announced on social media that the Mister Miracle series will take place within the new DC Universe. Because the show is officially part of this shared universe, it means we’ll soon see Darkseid, one of DC’s most iconic villains, appear in the DCU. He’ll be featured in Mister Miracle as Scott Free’s adoptive father and the source of his difficult childhood.

Why Darkseid Debuting In The DCU In Mister Miracle Is Perfect

Darkseid’s first appearance in the DC Universe is perfectly suited for the Mister Miracle series. Because of his close connection to the main character, Darkseid will have a significant role, and the adult animation format will let fans explore his origins and the conflict between Apokolips and New Genesis in great detail.

By introducing Darkseid in animation first, DC Studios is not only developing him into a complex character—more than just a powerful villain in action sequences—but also creating distance between his animated debut and his previous live-action appearance in the 2021 film Zack Snyder’s Justice League. This approach helps keep the character feeling new and allows DC Studios to gradually build him up as the main villain of the DCU.

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2026-01-14 22:48