Is Kumail Nanjiani Playing Booster Gold in James Gunn’s DCU?

The DC Universe (DCU), under the creative direction of James Gunn, is buzzing with speculation about its upcoming projects, and one question has fans on edge: Is Kumail Nanjiani playing Booster Gold?

Rumors about the Eternals star joining the DCU as the fame-seeking, time-traveling hero have been circulating for over a year, fueled by social media posts, insider scoops, and Nanjiani’s interactions with Gunn.

This article dives into the latest verifiable information surrounding these rumors, exploring their origins, responses from key figures, and what they mean for the DCU’s future.

Key Takeaways:

• Rumors suggest Kumail Nanjiani may play Booster Gold in James Gunn’s DCU, but no official confirmation has been made.

• James Gunn has stated that Booster Gold scripts are not finalized, and casting typically follows script completion.

• Xolo Maridueña, star of Blue Beetle, reportedly hinted at Nanjiani’s casting, though this remains unverified.

• Fan reactions are mixed, with some excited about Nanjiani’s comedic background and others concerned about his fit for the traditionally blonde, Caucasian Booster Gold.

• The Booster Gold series is part of the DCU’s Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters, but production is not imminent.

What Sparked the Kumail Nanjiani Booster Gold Rumors?

The speculation about Kumail Nanjiani as Booster Gold began in earnest in July 2024, when Nexus Point News reported that the actor had been cast in the role for the upcoming DCU series.

This claim was amplified by insider Daniel Richtman, who reposted the information on social media, adding fuel to the fire.

Further traction came when Xolo Maridueña, star of Blue Beetle and a confirmed DCU actor, reportedly expressed excitement about Nanjiani’s casting during a conversation with The Cosmic Circus, hinting at a potential team-up between Booster Gold and Blue Beetle.

However, Maridueña’s comments have not been officially corroborated, and it’s possible he was reacting to the circulating rumors rather than confirmed information.

Nanjiani’s public interactions with Gunn, including a tweet responding to the Superman logo reveal with “In” in July 2024, and a widely viewed photo of the two embracing at the Peacemaker Season 2 premiere in August 2025, have kept the rumor mill churning.

A social media user, Apocalyptic Horseman, responded to the premiere photo with “it’s happening,” further stoking speculation. Despite these developments, no official announcement from DC Studios, Gunn, or Nanjiani has confirmed the casting.

Has James Gunn Confirmed or Denied the Casting?

James Gunn, co-CEO of DC Studios, is known for addressing rumors directly on social media, often debunking false claims. On the Booster Gold rumors, however, Gunn has been notably reserved. During a December 2024 appearance on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, he was asked point-blank about Nanjiani’s potential casting.

Gunn responded, “We’re not quite there yet, in terms of Booster Gold. The scripts aren’t quite where I want them to be.” This statement suggests that casting decisions, including Nanjiani’s, are unlikely to be finalized until the scripts are complete, as Gunn has consistently emphasized that casting follows script approval.

In July 2024, Gunn also addressed a rumor about Booster Gold filming starting that month, stating, “Although we’re still working on Booster Gold, production isn’t imminent and that story/posting is completely false.”

While he didn’t directly deny Nanjiani’s involvement, his comments cast doubt on the timeline and readiness of the project, implying that casting rumors may be premature.

Additionally, a July 2025 post from Deadline, cited on social media, claimed Nanjiani was not attached to the role, but this was later challenged by Apocalyptic Horseman, who clarified that Deadline only labeled the rumor as unconfirmed, not debunked.

Why Is Kumail Nanjiani a Contender for Booster Gold?

Kumail Nanjiani’s resume makes him a compelling candidate for Booster Gold, a character known for his comedic flair and complex journey from a fame-obsessed antihero to a true protector.

Nanjiani’s roles in Silicon Valley, The Big Sick, and Eternals showcase his ability to blend humor with emotional depth, qualities that align with Booster Gold’s arc. Created by Dan Jurgens in 1986, Booster Gold (Michael Jon Carter) is a disgraced football star from the future who uses stolen technology to become a superhero in the present, seeking fame but ultimately finding redemption.

Nanjiani’s comedic background and superhero experience in Eternals could bring a fresh take to this character.

However, some fans have expressed concerns about Nanjiani’s casting due to Booster Gold’s traditional depiction as a blonde, Caucasian character in the comics. Social media discussions, particularly on Reddit, highlight mixed sentiments, with some praising Nanjiani’s acting chops and others arguing that his age (46) and appearance don’t match the younger, “pretty boy” aesthetic of Booster Gold, typically portrayed as being in his 20s or 30s.

These debates reflect broader conversations about race-swapping in superhero adaptations, with examples like Jason Momoa’s Aquaman cited as precedents.

Where Does the Booster Gold Series Stand in the DCU?

The Booster Gold series is part of the DCU’s Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters, announced by Gunn in January 2023. Described as a story about “imposter syndrome” and a “loser from the future” seeking fame, the series is intended for Max (or possibly HBO) and is one of several projects in development, alongside Superman, Lanterns, and Peacemaker Season 2.

However, Gunn has indicated that the Booster Gold scripts are still being refined, and the project has faced setbacks, including the loss of its original showrunner. Recent reports suggest David Jenkins is now attached, but production remains distant, reducing the likelihood of confirmed casting at this stage.

There’s also speculation that Booster Gold could debut in another DCU project, such as Peacemaker Season 2 or the Blue Beetle animated series, before his own show.

This theory is fueled by Nanjiani’s appearances with DCU cast members and Maridueña’s comments, though these remain unconfirmed possibilities. The Superman movie, set for release in 2025, is the DCU’s first major project, and fans are watching closely for any hints of Booster Gold’s introduction.

What Are Fans Saying About the Rumors?

Fan reactions to the potential casting of Nanjiani as Booster Gold are polarized. On platforms like Reddit and X, some fans champion Nanjiani for his comedic timing and ability to portray a flawed yet redeemable hero, with comments like, “He’d nail the personality of Booster Gold.”

Others, however, argue for a more comic-accurate casting, suggesting actors like Glenn Howerton, Billy Magnussen, or Glen Powell, who align closer to Booster Gold’s traditional look. Critics of the rumored casting have voiced concerns about age and appearance, with one Reddit user stating, “Kumail is too old for the part.

Booster needs to be like 30 years old.” These discussions underscore the passionate fanbase’s investment in the DCU’s direction under Gunn.

Could Nanjiani Be Playing a Different DCU Role?

An alternative theory suggests that Nanjiani’s frequent appearances with Gunn and DCU actors could indicate a different role, such as Skeets, Booster Gold’s robotic sidekick, or another character like Ambush Bug or Maxwell Lord.

Some fans speculate he might voice a character in the Blue Beetle animated series or appear in Superman or Peacemaker Season 2. These theories stem from Gunn’s statement that casting only occurs for greenlit projects, and Booster Gold’s early development stage makes a confirmed lead role less likely.

Nanjiani’s tweet of “In” in response to the Superman logo has also led to speculation about a cameo in the 2025 film.

The uncertainty surrounding Nanjiani’s DCU involvement keeps fans guessing, but it also highlights the excitement for Gunn’s vision. Whether Nanjiani is Booster Gold or another character, his potential addition would bring star power to the DCU.

Some Closing Thoughts:

The rumors about Kumail Nanjiani as Booster Gold remain unconfirmed, with James Gunn’s cautious updates suggesting that the Booster Gold series is still in early development.

While Nanjiani’s comedic talent and superhero experience make him a strong contender, fan debates and the lack of official confirmation leave the question open.

As the DCU unfolds with projects like Superman and Peacemaker Season 2, fans will be watching for any sign of Nanjiani’s involvement.

Stay tuned for updates as Gunn’s DCU continues to take shape, and let us know your thoughts on this casting rumor in the comments below!