The Only Arrowverse Actor That James Gunn Should Cast In The DCU

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If James Gunn brings anyone from the Arrowverse into the new DC Universe, there’s one actor who would be a perfect fit. DC Comics has always been a favorite among fans, being one of the biggest names in the industry. However, the DC movies haven’t always been successful, especially when compared to the huge popularity of Marvel’s films.

For over a decade, the Arrowverse kept DC Comics visible in popular culture, giving the film side time to rebuild its audience. The Arrowverse concluded in December 2024 after twelve years.

Fans who are deeply connected to shows like Arrow have been asking James Gunn to include actors from those series in his new DC Universe. While I enjoy the Arrowverse, I believe it’s best to keep the actors separate to protect the original shows’ reputations. Bringing them together could diminish what those shows already accomplished, but there’s one instance where I think it might work.

James Gunn’s DCU Should Cast Arrowverse’s Matt Ryan As John Constantine

Matt Ryan Appeared As A Guest Star In Arrow Before Joining The Cast Of Legends Of Tomorrow

It’s highly likely John Constantine will be in the upcoming Swamp Thing movie. The character originated in the Swamp Thing comics before getting his own series, Hellblazer. Matt Ryan has become so strongly associated with Constantine – much like Hugh Jackman with Wolverine – that most fans would expect him to continue in the role for the DC Universe. It would be unusual to see another actor take on the part.

Matt Ryan Has Already Played Constantine In Four Different DC Universes

Constantine Appeared In The Swamp Thing Episode Of The Harley Quinn TV Show

If James Gunn were to include Matt Ryan as Constantine in the new DC movies, it wouldn’t be the first time Ryan has played the character in a different DC universe. He’s proven he can easily step into the role no matter the continuity.

As of today, the character has appeared in four different versions of the DC universe: the original Constantine TV series, the Arrowverse (which later included the Constantine show), the DC animated movie world, and the Harley Quinn TV show. He’s likely to continue playing this iconic role for many years to come.

Why Matt Ryan Is The All-Time Best John Constantine Actor

Matt Ryan’s Constantine Is The Most Accurate Version Of The Character

I’ve seen a few different actors play Constantine – Matt Ryan, Keanu Reeves, Jenna Coleman, and Damian O’Hare – and for me, Matt Ryan is absolutely the best. He doesn’t just look the part, like he stepped right out of the Hellblazer comics, but he becomes Constantine. He really nails that cynical, morally grey side of the character that makes Constantine so compelling.

John Constantine consistently comes across as cynical, world-weary, and irritated with those around him, and this is particularly evident in his portrayal within the Arrowverse, which emphasizes his darker side. Matt Ryan perfectly captures Constantine’s sarcastic humor, often making him the most amusing character in any given scene.

Even if James Gunn chooses a different actor for the DCU, Matt Ryan has set a high bar, and it will be challenging for anyone to be considered a better John Constantine.

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2025-11-05 01:38