As soon as bids for Warner Bros. began surfacing, speculation immediately turned toward the future of DC Studios co-heads James Gunn and Peter Safran. Rumors spread across fan outlets and social media claiming that, whether Paramount or Netflix emerged victorious, the current DC leadership could be replaced — with some even suggesting Zack Snyder might return in a major creative role.
James Gunn and David Corenswet sit for an interview about Superman – YouTube, Fandango
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Now, with Warner Bros. officially approving a sale to Paramount and the deal awaiting regulatory approval later this year, questions surrounding Gunn’s future continue to fuel debate across the entertainment industry and fandom alike.
Early Signals
The latest rumor comes from scooper ThwipT_ who posted on X, “As of now once Paramount takes control of WB the plan is still for James Gunn and Peter Safran to run DC.”
As of now once Paramount takes control of WB the plan is still for James Gunn and Peter Safran to run DC#DC #WB #Paramount pic.twitter.com/7Zi5EcITw4
— ThwipT (@ThwipT_) May 8, 2026
The post suggests that Paramount is currently willing to retain Gunn and Safran in their roles as co-CEOs immediately following the merger. That lines up with reporting from Bloomberg in October 2025, when sources claimed Paramount intended to keep Warner Bros. largely intact.
“Paramount wants to keep the creative teams of the two studios, while consolidating some of the marketing and distribution,” those familiar with Paramount CEO David Ellison’s plans reportedly said.
Gunn also confirmed to Bloomberg that both his and Safran’s contracts were extended through the spring of 2027. Those deals reportedly run until just before the release of Gunn’s next Superman film, Man of Tomorrow. Beyond that point, however, Gunn could choose to step away, or Paramount may simply decide not to renew his contract.
Questions of Leadership and Corporate Alignment
An additional layer of intrigue emerged following reports that James Gunn was absent from a meeting with David Ellison. In March, Ellison reportedly gathered around 150 employees to discuss the company’s future direction. At the time, Gunn explained on social media that he was in Atlanta handling pre-production work for Man of Tomorrow.
Superman and Lex Luthor in a Jim Lee-Created teaser image for the Superman Sequel Man of Tomorrow – X, @JamesGunn
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While Gunn’s absence had a clear explanation, some observers still questioned whether it hinted at tension between him and Paramount leadership. Gunn has been vocal about his political views, which some believe differ from the perceived leanings of Ellison. Notably, Peter Safran was reportedly in attendance at the meeting.
Stability Over Disruption — For Now
Ultimately, this latest rumor from ThwipT_ appears to reinforce what many already expected: James Gunn will likely remain at Paramount, at least through the end of his current contract in 2027. While new leadership could impose greater oversight over DC Studios, Gunn may be comfortable with that arrangement. He has previously acknowledged that balancing the responsibilities of director and co-CEO may not be sustainable long term.
Superman beaten down in the trailer for James Gunn’s Superman – YouTube, DC
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So far, neither Paramount nor Gunn has officially stated whether he plans to stay beyond his current deal or eventually step away. The continued speculation surrounding his future reflects the broader uncertainty that often accompanies major studio mergers.
It also places even greater attention on the performance of the DCU, which has struggled to connect with audiences. If this summer’s Supergirl and next year’s Man of Tomorrow fail to meet expectations, as Superman did, Gunn and Safran’s long-term future at DC could quickly come into question.
For now, however, all signs point to no immediate leadership changes once Paramount officially assumes control of Warner Bros.
How long do you think James Gunn will stay at Paramount after the merger? Sound off in the comments and let us know!
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