Wonder Woman returns: What we know about the DCU’s reimagined heroine

Under new leadership at DC Studios, hopes of a fresh Wonder Woman revival have captured fan enthusiasm. Co-head James Gunn has confirmed in recent interviews that a new solo film featuring the Amazonian warrior is actively in development—with the screenplay already underway. This marks a definitive shift away from the previously planned Wonder Woman 3 starring Gal Gadot, signalling the character’s importance in the reimagined DC cinematic universe.

Early signs of an evolving DC universe—nicknamed “Gods and Monsters”—first became evident in Gunn and Peter Safran’s 2023 slate announcement. Superman: Legacy, set for summer 2025, is leading the charge, followed by Supergirl (2026), a Batman & Robin prophecy (The Brave and the Bold), and Swamp Thing, alongside several TV spin-offs. Among them is Paradise Lost, an HBO series centred on Themyscira’s Amazon society, expected in 2028 and conceived to enrich Diana’s origins.

Yet fans must manage expectations: the Wonder Woman film is distinct from the Themyscira-focused Paradise Lost series. Gunn emphasises that this is not a sequel but a standalone return to the beloved character, now independent of previous DC storylines . He even confirmed that the script is in active development, though casting and creative teams remain confidential for now.

The separation of the film and TV narratives allows for layered world-building. While Paradise Lost will offer political intrigue and mythological depth to the Amazon culture, the feature film is expected to bring Diana Prince into modern story arcs alongside new Superman and Batman films. The integration of Wonder Woman, Superman, Supergirl, and Batman highlights DC’s intention to restore the iconic Trinity to a central role .

One of the most high-profile questions on fans’ minds: will Gal Gadot return? Despite her continued popularity and public hopes, reports have clarified that she will not reprise the role in the new DC Universe. Variety sources confirm Gadot is not returning, making way for a full recast.

Casting offers are starting from scratch, and Gunn has actively dismissed speculative names—such as Elizabeth Debicki—noting limited artistic consideration and avoiding unfounded rumours.

Fan interest remains intense. Spanish-language reports indicate that public conversations are already naming hopefuls like Ana de Armas, Adria Arjona, and Melissa Barrera . Screenrant and Reddit have been abuzz with casting speculation, including Lauren Cohan, Debicki, Adria Arjona, and Jodie Comer. Although Gunn has made no official reveals, he has voiced admiration for recent Amazonian comic storylines like Historia, possibly hinting at thematic inspiration.

For now, fans and insiders alike await key developments: a production timeline, casting announcements, and creative team reveal. With Superman shooting soon and The Brave and the Bold on the horizon, the Wonder Woman script is expected before director selection and spotlight reveal. Gunn’s promise of “quality content” and careful storytelling has set the tone: Wonder Woman’s return is being treated with patience, narrative integrity, and reverence.

Looking Ahead: What This Means for the DCU

As the first standalone Wonder Woman film post-DCEU, expectations are high. The franchise offers a rare chance to reintroduce a female superhero in a major leadership role, aligned with a franchise-wide reboot. The separation from Gadot’s portrayal allows new creative freedom, but also brings challenges: retaining fan loyalty, maintaining the character’s mythos, and ensuring narrative cohesion alongside the Trinity and Amazon series.

If DC can execute these plans well—with expert screenwriting, bold casting, and strong directorial vision—it could redefine Wonder Woman for a new generation. More importantly, it would signal the dawn of a genuinely interconnected universe where plotlines across film, TV, gaming, and animation enrich one another, rather than contradict.