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Sean Gunn is looking absolutely clean as Maxwell Lord! James Gunn gives fans their first official look at his brothers’ latest DC Universe character in Superman.
For as much hype as there is for Superman, there are a couple of casting choices that have rubbed the internet the wrong way. They mainly revolve around James Gunn trying to integrate his close friends into the DC Universe. Perhaps the most controversial of these choices is his brother Sean Gunn taking on the role of Maxwell Lord, a beloved DC villain previously portrayed by Pedro Pascal.
Given most fans are only aware of Sean Gunn through his roles as Weasel and Kraglin, there was a lot of hesitancy around his ability to bring Maxwell Lord to light. The villain often seen as a more refined version of Lex Luthor, a far cry from the DC Universe characters James Gunn usually picks for his brother. And with the character nowhere to be seen in footage for Superman, there wasn’t much that could soothe the fans.
Sean Gunn’s Makeover As Maxwell Lord
With Superman just a few days from its release, it seems as though James Gunn is finally ready to tip his hand when it comes to Maxwell Lord’s look in the DC Universe. The director shared an image of Sean Gunn’s character on the face of a book, likely used as a prop in the upcoming film. And surprisingly, Sean Gunn looks very good capturing the cocky essence fans have grown to associate with the iconic villain.
Fantastic book, if you haven’t read it. #Superman pic.twitter.com/6AgW6BdBXt
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) July 8, 2025
It’s still unclear how big of a role Sean Gunn will play as Maxwell Lord in Superman. While James Gunn has revealed that the villain funds the DC Universe’s version of the Justice League, currently known as the Justice Gang, there hasn’t been any footage of him interacting with the team. Though it’s entirely possible an eleventh hour trailer could show he’s been the villain the whole time!
Superman is currently scheduled to hit theaters on July 11, 2025. Stay tuned for the latest news regarding the future of the DC Universe and make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more content!
