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James Gunn’s ‘Superman’ Hit With Legal Battle That Could Impact Global Release

DC Studios’ ambitious plans to revitalize its superhero universe with Superman (2025) have hit a significant legal roadblock. A new lawsuit threatens to prevent the film from releasing in multiple international markets, complicating Warner Bros.’ rollout of its highly anticipated reboot.

A Copyright Clash Over Superman

The lawsuit, filed by Mark Warren Peary, executor of Superman co-creator Joe Shuster’s estate, targets Warner Bros. Discovery, DC Comics, and DC Entertainment. It alleges copyright infringement in Canada, the UK, Ireland, and Australia, where different copyright laws may grant Shuster’s estate ownership over the character. The suit seeks damages, an injunction to block the film’s release in these regions, and official recognition of the estate’s rights.

Superman (David Corenswet) with a crowd of people
Credit: DC / Warner Bros.

At the core of the case is an international copyright technicality. When Shuster and Jerry Siegel sold Superman in 1938 for just $130, they granted worldwide rights to DC’s predecessor.

However, in countries following British legal traditions, copyright agreements can automatically expire 25 years after an author’s death. Since Shuster passed in 1992, his estate claims it now controls Superman’s rights in those territories.

Krypto the Dog helping Superman in the new trailer
Credit: DC / Warner Bros.

Should the lawsuit succeed, Superman could be barred from release in these key markets, posing a major financial risk for Warner Bros. and potentially undermining DC Studios’ long-term strategy.

Warner Bros. Responds

In response, Warner Bros. Discovery issued a statement to Deadline, asserting that it “fundamentally disagree[s] with the merits of the lawsuit, and will vigorously defend our rights.”

Superman (David Corenswet) injured in the snow
Credit: DC / Warner Bros.

The stakes are high. Superman – starring David Corenswet as the eponymous Man of Steel and Rachel Brosnahan as journalist Lois Lane – is set to be the cornerstone of James Gunn’s rebooted DC Universe. The film’s first trailer was the most-watched and discussed in DC history, signaling massive audience interest. Any disruption to its release could have ripple effects on the studio’s entire superhero slate.

Are you excited to see Superman?

Chloe James

Chloë is a theme park addict and self-proclaimed novelty hunter. She's obsessed with all things Star Wars, loves roller coasters (but hates Pixar Pal-A-Round), and lives for Disney's next Muppets project.

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