- Primary Subject: The casting of the DC Comics character Maxima for the upcoming DCU film Man of Tomorrow
- Key Update: James Gunn has reportedly narrowed the search for the alien queen Maxima down to four finalists
- Status: Confirmed
- Last Verified: April 9, 2026
- Quick Answer: Adria Arjona, Eva De Dominici, Sydney Chandler, and Grace Van Patten are finalists to play Maxima in James Gunn’s Man of Tomorrow, hitting theaters July 2027.
There have been rumors recently that fan-favorite character Maxima is making her DCU debut in the upcoming Superman sequel, Man of Tomorrow.
As James Gunn and DC Studios are preparing for the production of the DCU project soon, fans have been looking forward to seeing which new characters they might introduce aside from Brainiac. Maxima has been rumored to be featured in the film, and now, it looks like we are closer to finding out which actor will play the role.
Is Maxima Making Her Debut in DCU's Man of Tomorrow?
According to The Hollywood Reporter, James Gunn and DC Studios are currently casting the role of Maxima for Man of Tomorrow.
Adria Arjona, Eva De Dominici, Sydney Chandler, and Grace Van Patten have emerged as the four finalists for the coveted role. They screen-tested this week in Atlanta, where filming will take place. It is unknown yet which of them is being seen as the frontrunner.
The report came after Gunn debunked a Deadline report that revealed the alleged other actresses who had screen tested for Maxima.
In case you're not familiar with the character, Maxima made her debut in 1989's Action Comics #645. She was the brainchild of writer Roger Stern and artist George Pérez. As a powerful alien monarch, she has navigated a complex history with Superman, alternating between a formidable adversary and a persistent suitor.
This will mark the character's first appearance on the big screen. She has only made live-action appearances in the TV shows Smallville and Supergirl.
What to Expect in Man of Tomorrow
Man of Tomorrow will serve as the fourth feature film in the DCU franchise, following Superman, Supergirl, and Clayface. It is slated for release in theaters on July 9, 2027.
David Corenswet and Nicholas Hoult are confirmed to reprise their respective roles of Superman/Clark Kent and Lex Luthor. Just like the first movie, James Gunn is also serving as the director and writer of the project.
Other cast members who are expected to return in the film are Frank Grillo (Rick Flag, Sr.), Rachel Brosnahan (Lois Lane), Skyler Gisondo (Jimmy Olsen), Sara Sampaio (Eve Teschmacher), Isabela Merced (Hawkgirl), Guy Gardner (Nathon Fillion), and Edi Gathegi (Mister Terrific).
Aaron Pierre is confirmed to reprise the role of John Stewart from Lanterns, while German actor Lars Eidinger has been cast to play Brainiac.
While most of the plot details are under wraps, Gunn teased that the film "is a story about Lex Luthor and Superman having to work together to a certain degree against a much, much bigger threat."
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