To say that Superman is a success is an understatement. James Gunn 's new film has not only grossed $604 million at the box office, but it has achieved something even more valuable: restoring faith in the DC Universe. And the curious thing is that the proof of this success is not only in theaters, but also on the small screen. The definitive clue? The return of Peacemaker .
Because yes, while everyone is talking about million-dollar numbers, what's truly striking is how Superman has managed to draw viewers to other corners of the DCU. And Peacemaker, the series led by John Cena, is the big beneficiary: its second season is registering 25% more views than the first. A direct connection that inevitably reminds us of what Iron Man did in 2008 with the birth of the MCU.
Superman changes the rules of the game
The first season of Peacemaker was a breath of fresh air in 2022. Critics and audiences agreed that James Gunn had turned a nearly secondary character into one of the most charismatic in the DC catalog. However, the series seemed aimed at the most dedicated comic book enthusiasts, those already coming from The Suicide Squad.
Three years later, and after several DC film missteps, it would have been logical to expect a decline in interest. But the opposite has happened: Peacemaker 2 has taken off with a bang, and much of that momentum is thanks to Superman. The Man of Steel reboot hasn't just been a box office hit; it's also created a ripple effect that's revitalizing other productions.
According to Samba TV data, the second season of Peacemaker opened with 22% more households tuning in during its first four days than the first season finale. And this is no coincidence: Gunn has marketed the series as a kind of spiritual sequel to Superman, and audiences have responded.
The Echo of the Man of Steel
What's interesting is how Superman is leading the way. The film has not only demonstrated that there's a hunger for well-told heroes, but it has restored confidence in the DC brand. The feeling is that, if this reboot has worked, there's reason to believe that the rest of Gunn and Peter Safran's plan can succeed.
And here comes Peacemaker: a series that, beyond action and humor, dares to explore key concepts for the DCU. Season 2 confirms that the multiverse still exists, although Gunn doesn't seem interested in repeating the chaotic crossovers of the past. Instead, he's building a cohesive universe, where every piece, from Superman to Peacemaker, fits into a larger plan.
What we will see in Peacemaker 2
In this new chapter, Chris Smith ( John Cena ) confronts his past while trying to maintain his peculiar crusade for peace. And the plot promises unexpected twists: from the appearance of an alternate world that reflects all his desires, to the obligation to confront the traumas that haunt him.
The cast is another strong point: Danielle Brooks, Freddie Stroma, Jennifer Holland, Steve Agee, Frank Grillo, Sol Rodriguez, David Denman, Brey Noelle and Tim Meadows accompany Cena in a season that also features episodes written entirely by James Gunn and several directed by himself.
The future of the DCU after Superman
Superman's success has set the bar very high. The film not only proved that the character can sustain an entire franchise on his own, but it has also served as a catalyst for other projects. Following Peacemaker are Lanterns, Supergirl, and Clayface, three titles that will have to prove they can maintain their streak.
The truth is, the parallel with Iron Man is inevitable. In 2008, no one imagined that a seemingly standalone film would end up building a multi-billion-dollar universe. Today, Superman seems to be repeating that strategic move: hooking audiences with an iconic hero and expanding the universe from there.
And if there's one thing that's clear, it's that James Gunn has mastered blending his personal touch with the superhero epic. Superman has heart, spectacle, and a sense of story that has resonated with audiences. And Peacemaker is the ultimate proof: a series that, far from fading, shines brighter than ever thanks to the Man of Steel's energy.
The Superman Effect
In short, Superman has not only been a box office success, but also a pop culture sensation. His influence extends beyond cinema and is reshaping the perception of the DCU. Peacemaker 2 is confirmation that this new direction is working and that viewers are willing to continue accompanying Gunn on this adventure.
Perhaps in a few years, we'll talk about this moment as the true beginning of the new DCU . Because if one thing is clear, it's that, this time, the future of the superhero universe begins with one man... and that man is Superman.