Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters was recently announced for the rebooted DC Universe as James Gunn and Peter Safran has officially detailed the projects for the first chapter. Unfortunately, neither revealed the actors portraying the lead characters.
Since then, fans have wondered who would be playing Superman or Batman in the new DC Universe given that the studio has let go of high-profile actors. Henry Cavill, Dwayne Johnson, and Ben Affleck are just some of the names that will not be returning to DC.
One fan on Twitter asked James Gunn about the casting announcements for the new look DC Universe, "will we get any major casting announcements in the next 6 months?".
James Gunn replied a short but meaningful "yes."
Yes
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) February 18, 2023
The list of projects announced in Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters are headlined by Superman: Legacy and Batman: The Brave and the Bold with Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, Creature Commandos, Booster Gold, and Waller all part of the slate as well. DC Studios has not confirmed the actors for these projects except for Viola Davis in Waller.
The six-month timeline will likely mean that James Gunn and Peter Safran may grace the San Diego Comic-Con in July and announce the actors publicly. Gunn may want to replicate Marvel’s impressive use of the SDCC to reveal projects by reviving DC FanDome.
For now, only a few actors for DC have announced that they're staying, including Jason Momoa, who revealed he'd already met with Gunn and Safran to discuss his future with the studio. In addition, Shazam! actor Zachary Levi also debunked the recasting rumors and revealed that he intends to stay with DC. Finally, Robert Pattison is still part of the BatVerse, which is part of the DC Elseworlds meaning that is not part of the main story continuity.
Interestingly, James Gunn may cast actors from the Guardians of the Galaxy in future projects. The intergalactic superhero team will have their last outing in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3 which is premiering in May.
Dave Bautista has made it clear that he is not returning to play Drax the Destroyer for Marvel. Zoe Saldana is also open to not returning as Gamora in the MCU.
In any case, six months is a long time. We will be keeping an eye out for casting announcements as they come.
