DC Studios' James Gunn has just revealedAquaman’sstatus in the newDCU. In the newly rebooted cinematic universe,Creature CommandosandSupermanare the only projects that are fully 100% DCU canon (so far). However, some previous DCEU projects are mostly canon as well (The Suicide SquadandPeacemakerseason 1), albeit with some notable exceptions.
Ahead ofPeacemakerseason 2, premiering on August 21st, James Gunn has kicked offPeacemaker: The Official Podcastalongside Jennifer Holland’s Emilia Harcourt and Steve Agee’s John Economous.Covering each episode of the HBO show, the premiere podcast episode naturally coversPeacemakerseason 1, episode 1, culminating with Gunn providing key clarifications about what is and is no longer DCU canon:

Because the opening ofPeacemaker’sfirst episode is the first time we hearChris Smith’s Peacemaker making his running joke about Aquamandoing much more than just “talking” to fish,Gunn takes the time to confirm what Aquaman’s canonical status is in the DCU to begin with.
According To James Gunn, Aquaman Isn’t Yet A Public Hero
At Least Not Yet In The New DC Universe
Right around the 49-minute mark of this first podcast episode, James Gunn shares his thoughts about Aquaman and where he’s currently at in the DCU:
“Is Aquaman canon? We don’t know. I don’t think Aquaman is canon…It’s unlikely that Aquaman is a famous hero in the DCU asSupermanand Peacemaker Season 2 are happening.”

James Gunn then goes on to confirm thatPeacemaker’songoing Aquaman joke in the first season should be mentally cut by fans, as it has now become non-canon to the new DCU. Likewise, it will be fascinating to learn what else is non-canon as the newPeacemakerpodcast covers each new episode.
We’ve already known for some time thatJason Momoa’s cameo with the rest of the Justice League inPeacemakerseason 1’s finaleis no longer canon, either. After all, Momoa’s been cast in a new role within the DCU, and is set to debut in 2026’sSupergirlas the intergalactic bounty hunter Lobo.
Nevertheless, it’s interesting to learn that the DCU’s Aquaman has yet to come onto the scene, at least not publicly. BecauseMomoa’sAquaman and the Lost Kingdomwas the DCEU’s last and most recent movie, it will likely be some time before we actually see the DCU’s new Aquaman. Likewise, the role of Aquaman will more than likely be recast, just like David Corenswet’s Superman.
Peacemaker: The Official Podcastepisode 1 is available on streaming now from DC Studios.
Aquaman
Cast
Aquaman follows Arthur Curry, a half-human, half-Atlantean, as he embarks on a journey to discover his true identity and claim his birthright as king. Released in 2018, the film explores his quest to bridge the worlds of land and sea in the DC Universe.
Peacemaker
Peacemaker is a television series expanding on the character from the film The Suicide Squad. Released in 2022, it follows the titular character, a determined anti-hero who upholds peace through extreme measures, as he confronts personal and external challenges in the aftermath of his previous mission.