James Gunn Unveils First Look at DCU’s Jimmy Olsen

Superman writer-director James Gunn recently revealed the first official look at Skyler Gisondo’s portrayal of Jimmy Olsen in the DC Universe. This unveiling coincides with the anniversary of the character’s comic book debut.

While an anonymous “office boy” in Action Comics #6 is often considered to be Jimmy Olsen’s earliest appearance, the character officially debuted in 1941’s Superman #13. Created by Jerry Siegel, Joe Shuster, and Bob Maxwell, Jimmy Olsen is a young photojournalist working at the Daily Planet. He collaborates closely with Lois Lane and Clark Kent on their journalistic endeavors.

Jimmy Olsen has been noticeably absent in the DC Extended Universe with the exception of a brief cameo in Zack Snyder’s Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016). However, his character is set to take on a more prominent role in the upcoming Superman movie, where Skyler Gisondo will bring him to life. On Sunday, Aug. 25, James Gunn gave fans the first look at Gisondo in costume as Jimmy Olsen through his social media channels, featuring the character’s signature red hair and cheerful grin.

“Happy Anniversary to Superman’s pal, Jimmy Olsen, who debuted on this day in 1941 (although he did appear earlier as ‘office boy’ in Action Comics 6),” Gunn wrote in his post. The message included various comic book panels of Jimmy Olsen and a behind-the-scenes still of Gisondo in character. Gunn also expressed his enthusiasm for Gisondo’s portrayal, which audiences will see on July 11, 2025.

Skyler Gisondo joins a notable list of actors who have previously played Jimmy Olsen on the big screen. Marc McClure appeared in the Christopher Reeve Superman movies, Sam Huntington portrayed him in Superman Returns, and Michael Cassidy had a brief stint in Batman v Superman. Other actors who have taken on the role in live-action adaptations include Tommy Bond in the Superman film serials, Jack Larson in Adventures of Superman, Michael Landes and Justin Whalin in Lois and Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, Aaron Ashmore in Smallville, and Mehcad Brookes in Supergirl. Additionally, Douglas Smith is set to play Jimmy Olsen in the upcoming fourth and final season of The CW’s Superman & Lois.

The new Superman film, which will include Skyler Gisondo’s take on Jimmy Olsen, is set to hit theaters on July 11, 2025. It will serve as the first movie in the revitalized DC Universe.

Source: DC