James Gunn has confirmed that development on The Authority has been paused.
Gunn and Peter Safran first announced the project in January 2023 as part of their initial DC Universe slate. The film was set to adapt the comic book series of the same name.
On Monday, Gunn shared an update on Threads. He said the project is not moving forward for now.
“The script wasn’t quite there but more importantly it didn’t work in terms of the larger DCU both in terms of the story and practical concerns. Maybe some day. Not soon,” he wrote.
Script and Story Challenges
Gunn made it clear that the decision centered on story alignment and development issues.
He also confirmed he never planned to write or direct the film.
The filmmaker had previously signaled concerns during a DC press event in February 2025. At the time, he said the scale of the film created complications.
“It is a very big movie, if you’re going to do it properly,” Gunn said. He noted that elements introduced in Supermanand other fast-tracked projects overlapped with The Authority. He added that the script faced delays as a result.
The Authority’s Place in DC History
The Authority launched in 1992 and follows a team of antiheroes who act independently of government control to protect the world.
One of the team’s key members, Angela Spica, also known as the Engineer, appeared in 2025’s Superman.
The DCU Moves Forward
Gunn launched the new DC Universe with Superman, which he wrote and directed. He is now working on its sequel, Man of Tomorrow.
Two additional films, Supergirl and Clayface, are set for release this year.
Other projects in development include The Brave and the Bold, a Batman and Robin film, a new Wonder Womanproject, and Swamp Thing.
