DC Studios has begun screen testing several actresses for a major role in the upcoming Superman sequel, signaling the expansion of James Gunn's DC Universe with a character known for her formidable presence in the comics.

Grace Van Patten, Sydney Chandler, and Adria Arjona are among the contenders being considered for the role of Maxima in Man of Tomorrow, according to Deadline. The casting process marks a significant development for the sequel to this year's Superman, which is set to establish the foundation for Gunn and Peter Safran's reimagined DC continuity.

A Warrior Queen Enters the DCU

Maxima represents one of DC Comics' most complex characters—an alien warrior queen from the planet Almerac who possesses superhuman strength, telepathic abilities, and near-invulnerability. In the source material, she's typically portrayed as both a potential ally and romantic interest for Superman, though her methods and motivations often put her at odds with the Man of Steel's values.

The character first appeared in DC Comics in 1989 and has been featured in various animated adaptations, including Superman: The Animated Series and Justice League Unlimited. However, this would mark Maxima's first appearance in a live-action theatrical film.

Her inclusion in Man of Tomorrow suggests DC Studios is moving quickly to expand its cosmic mythology, potentially setting up storylines that extend beyond Earth-based threats. Maxima's presence could introduce audiences to Almerac and the broader political landscape of Gunn's DC Universe.

The Contenders

Grace Van Patten, known for her work in The Meyerowitz Stories and Hulu's Tell Me Lies, would bring dramatic depth honed through indie film work and prestige television. Her ability to portray complex, sometimes morally ambiguous characters aligns with Maxima's traditional characterization as someone who operates by her own code of honor.

Sydney Chandler, who appeared in Don't Worry Darling and the Apple TV+ series Sugar, has been building momentum with roles that showcase both vulnerability and strength. Her relative newcomer status could make her an intriguing choice for a character who needs to command the screen opposite an established Superman.

Adria Arjona brings perhaps the most experience with large-scale productions, having appeared in Pacific Rim Uprising, Morbius, and most recently in the Andor and Hit Man. Her work demonstrates comfort with both action sequences and character-driven drama—essential qualities for a role that will likely demand both physical and emotional range.

The fact that DC Studios is testing multiple actresses indicates they're taking their time to find the right fit for a character who could become a recurring presence across multiple projects.

Building Gunn's Superman Legacy

The casting news comes as DC Studios continues building out its interconnected universe under Gunn's creative direction. The first Superman film, starring David Corenswet as Clark Kent and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, is currently in post-production and set for release later this year.

Man of Tomorrow represents a crucial test for the new DC Studios approach—moving quickly into sequels while maintaining quality and coherent storytelling. The decision to introduce Maxima in the second film rather than relying solely on Superman's traditional rogues gallery suggests confidence in expanding the mythology.

Gunn has previously emphasized his intention to create a DC Universe that balances spectacle with character development, drawing on his experience with Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy. Maxima's complex relationship with Superman—simultaneously attracted to his power while disdaining what she perceives as his weakness in serving humanity—offers rich material for that approach.

What This Means for the Sequel

The introduction of Maxima could signal several potential directions for Man of Tomorrow. In the comics, her arrival on Earth has been motivated by everything from seeking Superman as a mate to produce powerful heirs, to recruiting him for intergalactic conflicts, to simply conquering Earth as an extension of her empire.

Any of these storylines would significantly raise the stakes from a first film that's expected to focus on Superman's early days as a public hero. It would also allow DC Studios to explore themes of power, responsibility, and what it means to be a hero on a cosmic scale—questions that become more complex when dealing with someone like Maxima, who views strength and conquest as virtues.

The casting process is reportedly still in its testing phase, with no final decision announced. Production on Man of Tomorrow is expected to begin later this year, following the release of the first Superman film.

As DC Studios works to differentiate its approach from previous DC film iterations, the Maxima casting will offer an early indication of how the studio plans to balance fan expectations with fresh interpretations of classic characters.