Did James Gunn Just Confirm Brainiac for Man of Tomorrow?

Whoops?! James Gunn did it again?!

James Gunn may have accidentally reopened the Brainiac debate after attempting to shut it down.

For the full breakdown — release date, cast, story, and every set reveal — see our running guide: Superman: Man of Tomorrow — everything we know.

Earlier, Gunn pushed back hard on rumors claiming Dave Bautista was being considered to play Brainiac in Man of Tomorrow.

In his response, Gunn stressed that none of the rumored actors have been discussed or auditioned, and pointedly added, “Let’s forget a moment I’ve never said Brainiac was in the movie.”

Now, a follow-up exchange on Threads is fueling fresh speculation.

Update: James Gunn has announced Lars Eidinger is playing Brainiac.

Gunn Explains Why He Addressed the Rumor

After Gunn’s initial response went viral, a fan questioned why Gunn bothers addressing casting rumors at all, suggesting that speculation and gossip might actually help with marketing. The fan also added that they were a big fan, likely to avoid the kind of backlash from Gunn that Gunn is known for delivering online.

Gunn replied that there are “numerous reasons” he addresses certain rumors directly and referenced his earlier post.

He emphasized that Dave Bautista is a friend and said he didn’t want stories circulating later about why Bautista didn’t get the job “or whatever when someone else is eventually cast.”

Did Gunn Tip His Hand?

That last line is what’s causing the stir.

By mentioning “when someone else is eventually cast,” Gunn appears to acknowledge that a specific role does exist and will be filled for Brainiac.

Rumors Continue to Swirl

In recent days, multiple actors have been rumored for Brainiac, including Dave Bautista, Claes Bang, Matt Smith, and Sam Rockwell. Gunn has now stated clearly that none of those names have been discussed internally. Still, his latest comment suggests casting for a major role is coming eventually, even if it hasn’t started yet.

Maybe it is Alan Tudyk who was previously said to have a secret role in the DCU (note: fan art featured above)?

Whether intentional or not, Gunn’s attempt to shut down speculation may have done the opposite. Until DC Studios officially reveals the villain or the cast, the Brainiac question isn’t going away anytime soon.

Gunn also let it slip that his DC future is in question when he went on that “YouTube tour” following our report.

It seems clear that Gunn should have a PR rep at his side whenever he makes comments.