Since James Gunn and Peter Safran took over DC Studios, the state of the current DC Universe has been in flux. We have recently learned that the two will, more likely than not, reboot the entire cinematic universe. However, while many of the actors cast in the previous Snyderverse, like Henry Cavill, Ben Affleck, or Gal Gadot, won’t return as Superman, Batman, or Wonder Woman. The two producers are extending an olive branch to allow the actors to have roles (or direct for Affleck) in future DC projects. Another actor that seems not to be returning would be Jason Momoa as Aquaman following next year’s Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom.
Honestly, this is the least surprising as director James Wan revealed years ago on CinemaBlend why he never returns to direct the third film in a franchise. The Hollywood Reporter revealed that Momoa has already spoken to DC Studios about the anti-hero alien bounty hunter Lobo. “Sources say the actor would lead another movie or franchise. The character of Lobo, a foul-mouthed cigar-chomping intergalactic bounty hunter, has been mentioned in connection with Momoa.” Lobo was actually Momoa’s favorite DC character he always wanted to portray, even before being cast as Aquaman. The only live-action version of Lobo to appear on screen was on Krypton season 2 by actor Emmett J. Scanlan.
Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom hits theaters on December 25th, 2023