Shazam!star Asher Angel hopes his heroic character will meaningfully join the rest of the DC Universe in the future. In a recent interview, the star discussed this and his thoughts on James Gunn being appointed the head of DC Studios.
Based on the DC Comics character of the same name (and also previously known as Captain Marvel),Shazam!chronicles the origin story of Billy Batson, a young and troubled foster kid who becomes the titular hero after being bestowed power from six ancient gods by an old wizard. After learning to utilize his newfound abilities, Billy is faced with a challenge in the form of the evil Dr. Sivana, who wants the power of Shazam for himself. The film was well received, and many people thinkShazam!has more depth than other DCEU filmsat the time.
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In a recent interview withComicBook.com, Angel, who portrays Billy Batson, expressed optimism about the future of the DCEU, praising the decision forGunn to run DC Studios alongside Peter Safran. “I remember meeting James,” Angel said. “I went to the Suicide Squad stages in Atlanta. I met with him and he’s just a super nice, genuine, humble guy. Super passionate. Obviously, he’s super freaking talented, but for him to team up with Peter Safran, who I think is so incredibly gifted at what he does is, it’s a dream team. To pair the two it totally makes sense. It was bound to happen.”
Gunn and Safran’s ascension to the top of the DCEU’s creative force has been met with positive responses from fans, withGunn hinting at plans to connect DCUTV, movies, animation, and video games. The idea seemingly appeals to Angel, who commented, “Hopefully I get to integrate with other characters, but who knows?” While theShazam!sequel titledFury of the Godsmight not tie into the new ideas directly, a successful entry in the franchise could be instrumental in solidifying a place for the character and actors in the newly thought-out DCU going forward. This is likely the hope of many fans who see the value Shazam could bring to the franchise.
Angel shares this sentiment but said the firstShazam!film had already left a mark on the wider DCEU. Expanding on this, the star said, “I think, in a way, Shazam did open up the DC Universe because it’s lighthearted and it’s fun. I feel like we haven’t had a movie like that in the DC Universe in a really long time. I think getting to have that makes it really special.” This is a valid point, with fans looking back fondly for this reason and speculating onwaysShazam! 2could improve on its predecessor.
While Angel’s outlook and Gunn’s promises paint a great picture for the franchise and character, some believe that the ball has already been dropped due to the lack of connection to Black Adam, an iconic Shazam villain whoDwayne Johnson fought to keep out of the first film. This decision, as well as Black Adam getting his solo project, has possibly endeared the character to many in a way that hinders future villainous encounters with his comic book enemy. It will be interesting to see how Gunn and Safran approach this and other issues in their quest to unify the DCU.
Shazam! Fury of the Godsis set to release on Jul 31, 2025.
