Here Are the Eight Arrowverse Heroes Whose New Versions Will Be Part of Gunn’s DCU

The DC Universe is getting a bold refresh under James Gunn and Peter Safran, kicking off with the ‘Creature Commandos’ (2024) animated series and the upcoming ‘Superman’ (2025) film. This new era, called Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters, promises a connected world across movies, TV, and games, pulling from DC Comics’ rich history.

We’re thrilled to see how Gunn’s vision reintroduces familiar heroes, including eight iconic characters from the Arrowverse, the CW’s decade-long TV universe. These heroes, who shaped DC storytelling with crossovers like ‘Crisis on Infinite Earths’, are getting fresh versions in the DCU. Let’s dive into who’s making the leap and what we can expect.

Superman

The Man of Steel is the cornerstone of the DCU, with David Corenswet taking on the role of Clark Kent in ‘Superman’ (2025). Unlike the Arrowverse’s Tyler Hoechlin, who starred in ‘Supergirl’ (2015-2021) and ‘Superman & Lois’ (2020-2024), this Superman exists in a world already filled with heroes and villains, skipping the traditional origin story.

Corenswet’s Clark is set to face Lex Luthor, played by Nicholas Hoult, in a story exploring his Kryptonian roots and human upbringing. The Arrowverse gave us two versions of Hoechlin’s Superman, including a multiverse variant, but the DCU aims to make Superman the narrative anchor, leading into future projects like ‘The Brave and the Bold’.

Batman

The Dark Knight returns in ‘The Brave and the Bold’ (TBD), focusing on Bruce Wayne and his son, Damian Wayne, as Robin. In the Arrowverse, Batman had a limited presence, with Kevin Conroy’s iconic portrayal in ‘Crisis on Infinite Earths’ (2019-2020) and Warren Christie’s brief role in ‘Batwoman’ (2019-2022).

Gunn’s Batman will be a steady force alongside Superman, drawing from Grant Morrison’s comic runs. Unlike the Arrowverse’s restricted use of the character, the DCU plans to fully embrace Gotham’s protector, exploring his complex father-son dynamic with Damian in a grounded, cinematic story.

Supergirl

Kara Zor-El, Superman’s cousin, shines in ‘Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow’ (2026), played by Milly Alcock. The Arrowverse’s Melissa Benoist portrayed Kara in ‘Supergirl’ (2015-2021), a hopeful hero who joined crossovers like ‘Crisis on Infinite Earths’. Gunn’s version promises a tougher, more hardened Supergirl.

With powers like flight and super strength, Alcock’s Kara may debut in ‘Superman’ (2025) before her solo film. The DCU aims to give Supergirl a bigger spotlight than her limited big-screen past, building her as a key player in the shared universe.

Hawkgirl

Isabela Merced’s Hawkgirl, Kendra Saunders, joins the Justice Gang in ‘Superman’ (2025). In the Arrowverse, Ciara Renée’s Hawkgirl was a key figure in ‘DC’s Legends of Tomorrow’ (2016-2022), battling Vandal Savage and protecting the timeline for one season.

The DCU’s Hawkgirl will have a larger role, teaming with heroes like Green Lantern and Mr. Terrific. Merced’s portrayal draws from comics where Hawkgirl wields ancient powers and fierce combat skills, promising a dynamic presence in Gunn’s interconnected world.

Mr. Terrific

Edi Gathegi brings Michael Holt, aka Mr. Terrific, to life in ‘Superman’ (2025). In the Arrowverse, Echo Kellum played Curtis Holt, a tech genius on Team Arrow in ‘Arrow’ (2012-2020), from seasons 4 to 8. The DCU reimagines Mr. Terrific as a core Justice Gang member.

Known for his intellect and T-Sphere gadgets, Gathegi’s version will likely showcase advanced tech and strategic skills. The DCU aims to elevate Mr. Terrific beyond his Arrowverse supporting role, integrating him into larger superhero team dynamics.

Booster Gold

Booster Gold, the time-traveling hero, gets his own series, ‘Booster Gold’ (TBD). In the Arrowverse, Donald Faison debuted as Michael Jon Carter in ‘DC’s Legends of Tomorrow’ (2016-2022), but the show’s cancellation cut his story short. The DCU gives him a fresh start.

Gunn’s Booster Gold is a self-promoting hero from the future, using advanced tech to fight crime. The series will explore his comedic yet heroic journey, building on his brief but memorable Arrowverse appearance with a bigger, standalone adventure.

Vigilante

Freddie Stroma’s Adrian Chase, aka Vigilante, appears in the DCU’s ‘Peacemaker’ (2022-2025). In the Arrowverse, Vincent Sobel was Vigilante in ‘Arrow’ (2012-2020), using brutal methods, while Adrian Chase was a villain with a vendetta against Oliver Queen.

Stroma’s DCU Vigilante brings a lighter, comedic edge, aiding John Cena’s Peacemaker. Set for a major role in ‘Peacemaker’ Season 2, he’ll battle dangerous foes, distinct from the Arrowverse’s darker take.

Kid Flash

Kid Flash, Wally West, is set to race into the DCU, though no actor or project is confirmed; he only had a brief cameo in ‘Creature Commandos’. In the Arrowverse, Keiynan Lonsdale’s Wally shone in ‘The Flash’ (2014-2023), growing from a reckless speedster to a confident hero.

Gunn’s Kid Flash will likely highlight Wally’s vibrant energy and speed, rooted in his comic legacy. This fresh take could see him teaming with the Flash or carving his own path in the DCU’s interconnected world.

Which of these reimagined Arrowverse heroes are you most excited to see in the DCU, or is there another character you hope joins the lineup? Drop your thoughts in the comments!