James Gunn, Peter Safran Tapped to Lead Newly Formed DC Studios

Warner Bros. has enlisted a pair of industry veterans to lead DC Studios.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, DC Studios, a newly formed division that will replace DC Films, will be led by filmmaker James Gunn and producer Peter Safran.

The pair will co-head the studio’s film, TV and animation efforts, which is home to superheroes such as Wonder Woman and Superman. Gunn and Safran will assume their new positions on Nov. 1.

The decision comes just a week after DC Films head Walter Hamada’s exit.

“DC has among the most entertaining, powerful, and iconic characters in the world and I am thrilled to have the singular and complementary talents of James and Peter joining our world-class team and overseeing the creative direction of the storied DC Universe,” Warner Bros. CEO David Zaslav said in a statement. “Their decades of experience in filmmaking, close ties to the creative community, and proven track record thrilling superhero fans around the globe make them uniquely qualified to develop a long-term strategy across film, TV, and animation, and take this iconic franchise to the next level of creative storytelling.”

Gunn and Safran will report to Zaslav, President and Chief Executive Officer, Warner Bros. Discovery. Meanwhile, Gunn will focus on the creative side, while Safran will head the business and production side of things. 

“We’re honored to be the stewards of these DC characters we’ve loved since we were children,” the pair said in a joint statement. “We look forward to collaborating with the most talented writers, directors, and actors in the world to create an integrated, multilayered universe that still allows for the individual expression of the artists involved. Our commitment to Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, Harley Quinn, and the rest of the DC stable of characters is only equaled by our commitment to the wonder of human possibility these characters represent. We’re excited to invigorate the theatrical experience around the world as we tell some of the biggest, most beautiful, and grandest stories ever told.”

Gunn has notably directed both Guardians of The Galaxy films for Marvel, as well as the franchise’s upcoming third entry. He also helmed DC’s The Suicide Squad as well as its Peacemaker series. 

Gunn confirmed the news of his new position on Instagram.