For a studio that’s leaned heavily on television to build out its universe, this is a surprising update. Despite a long list of rumored projects, HBO Max says only one live-action DC Universe series is currently in active development — and it’s not the one most fans expected.
The reveal comes straight from the top, and it’s already reshaping expectations for what’s coming next from James Gunn’s DCU.
Table of Contents
HBO Max DC Universe Series Update: Key Details
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Confirmed by | Casey Bloys, Chairman & CEO, HBO and Max Content |
| Only Show in Active Development | The People v. Gorilla Grodd |
| Filming Status | Started early September 2026 |
| Also in Development (Animated) | Mister Miracle animated series |
| Also Confirmed (Season 2) | Creature Commandos Season 2 |
| Context | Announced shortly after HBO’s 21 Emmy wins |
What Bloys Actually Said
Speaking to Deadline, Casey Bloys clarified that The People v. Gorilla Grodd — centered on the classic Flash villain — is the only live-action DCU show currently in active development at HBO Max. He addressed the confusion around DC Studios’ shifting TV slate directly, explaining that people often mistake projects still in development for greenlit shows, when in reality development is where the studio takes big swings that don’t always pan out, according to The Direct’s coverage of the interview.
He pointed to DC’s track record — from Watchmen to Peacemaker to Penguin and now Lanterns — as proof the studio remains selective rather than rushing every announced idea into production.
Why This Doesn’t Include Everything
Bloys’ “only one” comment likely refers strictly to live-action shows. A Mister Miracle animated series, with comic writer Tom King as showrunner and Nathan Fillion voicing Guy Gardner, is confirmed and moving forward with casting. Meanwhile, Creature Commandos Season 2 is also actively in the works, with Dean Lorey stepping in as showrunner and head writer.
If you’re tracking every DCU project in the pipeline, check out our complete James Gunn DCU release schedule, and browse our Lanterns season 2 renewal tracker for the latest on that front.
Which Shows Could Move Into Development Next?
With Lanterns pulling in 9.3 million views in its first three days — the biggest DC Studios premiere on the platform — a second season feels like a natural next step, especially given how much Green Lantern lore is left to explore. Edi Gathegi’s Mister Terrific is another strong candidate, especially with his character set to return in the upcoming Man of Tomorrow. Booster Gold also remains alive at the studio, even after original writer David Jenkins exited, with a new creative team expected to take over.
FAQs
1. Which DC Universe show is currently in active development at HBO Max?
The People v. Gorilla Grodd, centered on the Flash villain Gorilla Grodd, is the only live-action DCU series currently in active development, with filming underway since early September 2026.
2. Are other DCU shows like Creature Commandos Season 2 still happening?
Yes — Creature Commandos Season 2 and the animated Mister Miracle series are both confirmed and moving forward; Casey Bloys’ comment referred specifically to live-action projects.
