Xolo Maridueña will reprise his role as Blue Beetle in the upcoming Superman sequel, Man of Tomorrow. The announcement strengthens the character’s place in the rebooted DC Universe led by James Gunn and Peter Safran.

Maridueña first played Jaime Reyes in the 2023 film Blue Beetle. The movie followed a recent college graduate who gained superpowers after an alien scarab attached itself to him.

Speaking on Michael Rosenbaum’s podcast, Gunn confirmed Blue Beetle’s status in the new DCU.

“The first DCU character, for sure, Blue Beetle, and the first full DCU movie is ‘Superman,’” he said.

A Historic Superhero Role

Blue Beetle made history as the first Latino superhero to lead a standalone DC film. Maridueña previously spoke about the importance of the milestone.

“The only thing that is on my mind right now is just the fact that he’s Latino. I have so much pride in getting to be a part of this project with Angel, someone like him,” he said.

“I think it’s so important, and I don’t want to stand on the soapbox for too long, but representation is so important.”

The actor also committed himself physically to the role. He gained between 25 and 30 pounds of muscle through weight training, martial arts and a strict diet.

DC Studios Backs Maridueña

Safran praised Maridueña’s performance and highlighted his range as an actor.

“What I was most impressed by is his ability with both the comedic and the emotional material,” Safran told Variety. “He has all the skills.”

According to Safran, the role required both humour and emotional depth. Jaime Reyes had to learn how to use his powers while trying to protect his family.

“It’s just very evident that this is a star-making performance,” Safran added.

Looking Ahead to ‘Man of Tomorrow’

Maridueña said he remains excited about the future of the character.

“Regardless of if we get 20 movies or if it’s just this one, I feel truly fulfilled,” he said. “If we get to do another one, I’m so ready and shit, I’ll put on another 20 pounds and get even bigger.”

David Corenswet will return as Superman in Man of Tomorrow. Gunn wrote and directed the film. The story will see Superman team up with Lex Luthor, played by Nicholas Hoult, to face Brainiac, portrayed by Lars Eidinger.

Man of Tomorrow will open in theatres on July 9, 2027.