Matthew Lillard Joins James Gunn’s DCU: Why This Geek’d Con Favorite Is Heading To Metropolis

For whatever odd reason, James Gunn & Shreveport have this weird sort of connection that just can't be broken. James' first full feature length jump into the world of heroes happened right here in Shreveport - he shot most of his first 'superhero' movie Super right here in Shreveport.

That would be a cool note if that were all. But it's not. Several former Geek'd Con guests frequently appear in James Gunn films - Michael Rooker and Mikaela Hoover have appeared numerous times times in various Gunn projects ranging from Guardians of the Galaxy to Peacemaker to Superman.

But, that's not all. Pruitt Tayler Vince, who has also been a Geek'd Con guest in the past, plays the important part of Pa Kent in the new DCU. But, being a Geek'd Con guest isn't Pruitt's only Shreveport connection. Many that went to LSUS in the early 2000s may know Pruitt from there...as he was an "artist in residence" at the local university and helped countless students in their journey through the world art, acting, and filmmaking (full disclosure - that's how I first met Pruitt).

I say all that to say this: James Gunn is adding yet another familiar face to his ever growing DC Universe. This time in the form of former Geek'd Con guest Matthew Lillard.

Matthew Lillard Joins Superman: Man of Tomorrow

According to Deadline, Matthew Lillard is joining the cast for the new Superman movie. Production on Man of Tomorrow is already underway as James has been posting teases to his social media from on set dating back to April 20th. The Deadline report says that at this moment it is unknown who Lillard will be playing in the film. James did just post a selfie with Matthew on his Instagram...so probably safe to assume that he's already on set and working. Of course James & Matthew are no strangers...as Matthew starred as Shaggy in the Scooby Doo movies - which were written by James Gunn.

He's joining a star studded cast that includes Nicholas Hoult playing Lex Luthor, Lars Eidinger as Brainiac, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, Sara Sampaio as Eve Teschmacher, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Nathon Fillion (who was also in Super, that was shot in Shreveport) as Guy Gardner and Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific. Adria Arjona is also on board to play Maxima and Aaron Pierre is also in the pic.

As of right now, the film is scheduled to release on July 9th, 2027.

What's the Current Plan for the DCU in 2026?

While 2026 may not have the most DC heavy schedule ever, there's LOTS of cool stuff coming out in the DCU this year. Supergirl, Lanterns, and Clayface are the big projects that we know about. But, every once in a while, DC has been known to spring something on us. Could a pop-up animated movie or show come our way? Sure. There could be an hour long special of some kind that pops up (kinda like the Guardians of the Galaxy Christmas Special). You just never know. We do know that James posted on Twitter that at least one script is done for the new season of Creature Commandos.

But, the projects we do know about, look pretty damn cool! Below are the trailers and release dates for the projects that we know are coming in 2026:

SUPERGIRL - JUNE 26th, 2026 (FEATURE FILM)

LANTERNS - AUGUST 16, 2026 (SERIES ON HBO MAX)

CLAYFACE - OCTOBER 23, 2026