The DCU just dropped a major casting update for James Gunn’s Man of Tomorrow, and fans are already divided. Xolo Maridueña’s return as Blue Beetle sparks mixed reactions online.
James Gunn’s Superman follow-up confirmed to bring back Jaime Reyes
Xolo Maridueña will reprise his role as Jaime Reyes in James Gunn’s Man of Tomorrow, according to TheWrap. The film is currently in production and will serve as the character’s official reintroduction into the DCU. Gunn previously confirmed Blue Beetle holds a unique distinction within his new universe.
“I mean the first DCU character, for sure, is Blue Beetle, and the first full DCU movie is ‘Superman,’” Gunn said on Michael Rosenbaum’s podcast. The original Blue Beetle hit theaters in August 2023 under the previous DC regime. Maridueña starred as Mexican American teenager Jaime Reyes, a college graduate who bonds with an alien scarab. Angel Manuel Soto directed that film.
The 2023 movie earned generally positive reviews and drew strong Latino audiences. It grossed $130.8 million worldwide during its theatrical run. The film later gained traction on streaming and became one of HBO Max’s most-watched titles. Maridueña previously described Blue Beetle as a blend of two iconic heroes from rival franchises.
“He’s kind of like a fusion of Green Lantern and Iron Man,” Maridueña said. “He has a scarab from outer space that is attached to his body called Khaji da.”
Fans react to Blue Beetle’s DCU return
The casting news sparked mixed reactions from fans on social media. One user questioned whether Man of Tomorrow would become another ensemble film rather than a solo Superman story. Another user expressed skepticism about the DCU’s overall direction under Gunn’s leadership.
However, some users offered a different perspective on the franchise’s creative approach. One user noted Gunn features lesser-known characters without studio pressure to rival Marvel.
Meanwhile, another user admitted unfamiliarity with the Blue Beetle character but expressed curiosity. DC Studios did not respond to the casting.
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