James Gunn comments on the rash of online harassment received for changes to the DC Universe

James Gunn is used to receiving online criticism for his actions. Still, he wants to set the record straight on how “passionate fans” do little to influence decisions at DC Studios. Speaking out about online harassment on Twitter, Gunn understands the direction of DC Studios is bound to upset a portion of the fandom. Still, he and Peter Safran remain stones in the face of hate and adversity.

“One of the things Peter & I were aware of when we took the job as heads of DC Studios was a certain minority of people online that could be, well, uproarious & unkind, to say the least,” Gunn tweeted on Monday afternoon. “Our choices for the DCU are based upon what we believe is best for the story & best for the DC characters who have been around for nearly 85 years. Perhaps these choices are great, perhaps not, but they are made with sincere hearts & integrity & always with the story in mind.”

One of the things Peter & I were aware of when we took the job as heads of DC Studios was a certain minority of people online that could be, well, uproarious & unkind, to say the least.

— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) December 19, 2022

Gunn and Safran recently came under fire after news hit that Henry Cavill is not returning as Superman for any future DC-related projects. The news hit the DC films community like a super-powered solar punch to the gut, destroying their hopes for a Cavill-led Man of Steel sequel or showdown with Dwayne Johnson’s Black Adam. In addition to the Cavill letdown, Patty Jenkins is no longer directing Wonder Woman 3, making Gal Gadot’s future as the iconic feminist icon uncertain.

Since Gunn and Safran became co-heads of DC Studios, rumors continue to circulate about the fate of specific projects. One tale involves Robert Pattinson becoming the DCU’s primary Batman. This story has been debunked, but not before fans got their hopes up about Pattinson playing a more prominent role in the DCU.

“No one loves to be harassed or called names – but, to be frank, we’ve been through significantly worse. Disrespectful outcry will never, ever affect our actions,” Gunn tweeted. “We were aware there would be a period of turbulence when we took this gig, & we knew we sometimes have to make difficult & not-so-obvious choices, especially in the wake of the fractious nature of what came before us.”

What do you make of Gunn’s comments? Should fans remain patient and permit Gunn and Safran time to present their plans for the future of DC Studios? Feel free to sound off in the comments below.