James Gunn Debunks 'Crazy' Man Of Tomorrow Casting Rumors

The director says the reported actresses were never in consideration for the role of Maxima.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 6:35pm

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A dramatic, abstract illustration featuring jagged, angular black silhouettes of Superman and Lex Luthor in a high-contrast composition, conveying the tension and conflict between the iconic characters.As James Gunn steers the new DCU, his firm debunking of unverified casting rumors signals his commitment to controlling the narrative.Los Angeles Today

James Gunn has taken to social media to firmly debunk recent reports that actresses Adria Arjona, Marisa Abela, and Ella Purnell were being tested for the role of Maxima in his upcoming DCU film 'Man of Tomorrow'. Gunn stated the rumors were 'crazy' and that the actresses were never actually under consideration for the part.

Why it matters

Gunn's quick and direct denial of these casting rumors underscores his commitment to controlling the narrative around his DCU projects. As a high-profile director overseeing the relaunch of the DC universe, Gunn wants to ensure accurate information is shared with fans, rather than unverified speculation.

The details

According to Gunn, the Deadline report claiming the trio of actresses were being tested for Maxima was completely unfounded. Gunn said if the outlet had reached out, he would have told them the rumor was 'bullshit'. While Gunn has worked with Adria Arjona before, he stated he's never met Marisa Abela or Ella Purnell. The director seems genuinely perturbed that these unsubstantiated rumors were published.

  • James Gunn's 'Man of Tomorrow' is set to begin rehearsals and filming in the next month.

The players

James Gunn

The director of the upcoming DCU film 'Man of Tomorrow' who debunked the casting rumors.

Adria Arjona

An actress who has previously worked with Gunn on 'The Belko Experiment' and is set to star in the Prime Video series 'Criminal'.

Marisa Abela

An actress who was reportedly being tested for the role of Maxima in 'Man of Tomorrow', according to the unverified Deadline report.

Ella Purnell

An actress who was also reportedly being tested for the role of Maxima in 'Man of Tomorrow', according to the unverified Deadline report.

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What they’re saying

“But that's not the case here so I'm frankly disappointed. If someone would have run these names by us we would have said it's bullshit. I've been friends with Adria a long time since I cast her in the Belko Experiment. I'm a fan of both Marisa and Ella but I've never met either of them. Crazy.”

— James Gunn, Director

What’s next

Gunn is expected to share verified casting announcements for 'Man of Tomorrow' in the near future as fans await the film's eventual release date of July 9, 2027.

The takeaway

James Gunn's swift and forceful debunking of the 'Man of Tomorrow' casting rumors underscores his commitment to controlling the narrative around his DCU projects and ensuring accurate information is shared with fans, rather than unverified speculation.