James Gunn Explains Why Superman Is Hitting Digital Platforms Early Ahead of Peacemaker Season 2

James Gunn has confirmed that Superman will arrive on digital platforms just over a month after its theatrical debut. The decision, he revealed, is directly tied to the upcoming release of Peacemaker Season 2.

Zahra Ali | July 29, 2025

Superman, the blockbuster that kickstarted James Gunn’s new DC Universe, is arriving on digital platforms much sooner than expected. Fans will be able to watch the film at home starting August 15 on services like Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home, barely five weeks after its July 11 theatrical release.

The early arrival surprised many, especially given the film’s strong box office performance. Superman has earned more than 334 million dollars domestically and is closing in on the 600 million dollar mark worldwide, making it one of 2025’s most successful superhero releases.

In a conversation with ScreenRant, Gunn acknowledged fans’ concerns about the shortened theatrical run. “Me too,” he admitted when told it was heartbreaking to see the film head to digital so soon. He then explained the reasoning behind the move.

“Well, it is very complicated, but the truth is it is because of Peacemaker,” Gunn said. “I originally thought Season 2 was going to be coming out next month. A lot of things beyond our control shifted the timeline, and at the end of the day, I wanted everyone who wanted to see Superman to have that chance before Peacemaker. That is really the reason for it.”

The timing makes sense given how closely the two projects are connected. Peacemaker Season 2, which premieres August 21 on HBO Max, takes place shortly after the events of Superman. Several characters introduced in the film, including Hawkgirl (Isabela Merced) and Guy Gardner (Nathan Fillion), will reappear in the series alongside John Cena’s Christopher Smith.

Despite the digital rollout, Superman will remain in theaters, offering fans the choice between the big screen and home viewing. Physical releases are also set for September 23, when the film becomes available on Blu-ray, DVD, and 4K Ultra HD.

Starring David Corenswet as Clark Kent and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Gunn’s Superman has been widely praised by both critics and audiences. With an 83 percent critics score and a 91 percent audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, the film marks a strong start for the revamped DC Universe.

As fans count down to Peacemaker Season 2, Gunn’s strategy ensures that audiences are caught up with Superman before the next chapter in the DCU unfolds.