Blue Beetle Actor Discusses DCU Return Timeline

Key Highlights

Xolo Maridueña will reprise his role as Blue Beetle in an upcoming animated series for the DC Universe, targeting a 2026 release.
The actor expresses optimism about potential future live-action opportunities within the DC Universe.
The new animated series will expand upon the narrative established in the DCEU movie while introducing fresh storylines, under the creative guidance of James Gunn.

Xolo Maridueña, known for his portrayal of Blue Beetle, is set to return to his role in the recently announced DC Universe (DCU) animated series. In a recent update, he provided exciting insights regarding the future of his character.

The original Blue Beetle film, a key title in the DCEU, was among the final movies released before the franchise underwent a significant reboot spearheaded by Gunn. Prior to the film’s debut, Gunn had reassured fans that Maridueña would reprise his role in the new DCU universe. Fast forward almost a year, it was reported by Deadline that an animated series featuring Blue Beetle is in the works. This new project aims to continue the narrative established in the DCEU film while charting its own unique path that could potentially lead to a new live-action movie featuring Maridueña as Jaime Reyes. While discussions regarding contracts for returning actors are still ongoing, Maridueña has confirmed his involvement as the voice of Jaime Reyes.

Current Developments on the Blue Beetle Animated Series

In an exclusive interview with The Direct at the 2025 Saturn Awards, Maridueña expressed his enthusiasm for the planned release of the Blue Beetle animated series in 2026. He stated that while he is eager to step back into his role as Jaime Reyes, the production team is working diligently to finalize everything this year to present the series to excited fans next year. As for live-action opportunities in the DCU, Maridueña opted to withhold specific comments while acknowledging that he is prepared for whatever direction the studio takes.

“Look, he’s got his hands in his kitchen. I don’t want to walk in while the chef is doing his thing, ” Maridueña joked.“But I can say that once they’re finished with this three-course meal, I’m ready.”

An Image of Blue Beetle with his two stings

Since James Gunn and Peter Safran took the helm as co-CEOs of DC Studios, their decisions have raised several inquiries. Gal Gadot claimed they expressed intentions to develop Wonder Woman 3 together, although conflicting reports have cast doubt on this statement, leaving fans to speculate on the future of the character. In contrast, Maridueña remains confident in Gunn’s commitment to include him in the DC Universe.

“And look, I have no reason to believe that he’s lying, ” Maridueña stated.“We’re all adults here; we can express ourselves freely! I’m just thrilled with the opportunity I had to be part of the first film and will continue to share that experience as we draft up the next chapter.”

Maridueña’s Unique Position in the DCU

As one of the few actors from the original DCEU to continue in the new DCU, Maridueña occupies a remarkable position. Notably, he is the only one of the original cast not involved in Gunn’s previous DCEU projects such as The Suicide Squad and Peacemaker. The upcoming Blue Beetle series, as noted in Deadline’s reporting, intends to establish continuity with the DCEU film while allowing for new narrative explorations. Gunn is expected to selectively integrate elements from the film that align with the new DCU canon. To illustrate, the animated series Creature Commandos references plot events from The Suicide Squad and Peacemaker, making it clear which aspects are acknowledged in the new universe.

Despite the substantial changes underway, the Blue Beetle movie was particularly well-received, thanks in part to its strong supporting cast that included Jaime’s family and love interest, Jenny Kord, played by Bruna Marquezine. While Gunn may prefer to maintain creative flexibility, numerous fans are likely hoping to see more familiar faces alongside the titular hero’s return.

The film Blue Beetle (2023) is currently available for streaming on Max.

Source: The Direct

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