What does Sean Gunn play in Superman? Actor defends his brother James Gunn's controversial comments about the DC superhero being an "immigrant"

The Superman actors, including Sean Gunn, attended the upcoming DCU movie’s world premiere at Los Angeles’ TCL Chinese Theater on July 7, 2025.

The ensemble cast also stepped on the red carpet to answer the media's questions around the film and James Gunn’s recent comments calling Kal-El an “immigrant.” Sean was also asked about the MAGA backlash his brother’s remarks had garnered. The Guardians of the Galaxy actor reaffirmed his sibling’s stance while responding to a correspondent for Variety,

“You know, my reaction to that is that it is exactly what the movie is about.”

For those unaware, Sean Gunn portrays Maxwell Lord in Superman, based on the eponymous supervillain from DC Comics. The character will also make an appearance in Peacemaker Season 2, as confirmed in the official teaser. Previously, Pedro Pascal played a version of the character, Maxwell "Max Lord" Lorenzano, in DCEU’s Wonder Woman 1984.

Sean Gunn defended his brother’s statement and weighed in on his stance on immigrants

As mentioned, The Suicide Squad actor recently reacted to the online backlash his elder sibling’s comments received from MAGA supporters. While Sean Gunn voiced his support for the DC Studios co-head and the movie, he further stated the importance of immigrants in the US. He claimed that whoever says no to immigrants is against the “American Dream.”

Sean Gunn told a Variety reporter on the Superman world premiere red carpet,

“We support our people, you know. We love our immigrants. We love… Yes, Superman is an immigrant and yes, the people that we support in this country are immigrants and if you don’t like that, then you are not American. People who say no to immigrants are against the American way. They’re against what the American Dream is all about.”

The Variety correspondent shared the famous Superman “Truth, Justice, and the American Way,” to which Sean responded,

“Absolutedly.”

Sean Gunn also discussed the release of Superman, claiming that he is “excited to share it with an audience” and “can’t wait for people to see the new world.” He mentioned DCU being an integrated movie universe with Lanterns, Supergirl, and multiple other projects being lined up after Superman. Gunn also added that “everything is individual” and fans can enjoy “the one thing” they like.

James Gunn and Nathan Fillion also respond to the MAGA backlash

Like Sean Gunn, his brother was also approached by Variety on the red carpet. When asked about the adverse reaction his “immigrant” comment received, James answered,

“I don’t have anything… I think this movie is for everybody. I don’t have anything to say to anybody, like, I’m not here to judge people, you know. I think this is a movie about kindness and I think that’s something everyone can relate to.”

For those unaware, James Gunn had previously referred to Superman as “the story of America,” during a chat with The Sunday Times. He added (via The Hollywood Reporter),

“An immigrant that came from other places and populated the country, but for me it is mostly a story that says basic human kindness is a value and is something we have lost.”

He also acknowledged the offense that many might take and asserted,

“Yes, it plays differently. But it’s about human kindness and obviously there will be jerks out there who are just not kind and will take it as offensive just because it is about kindness. But screw them.”

After the interview, James Gunn and Superman received lots of criticism on the internet. While the director didn’t give much reaction to the online hate, Nathan Fillion had a more lighthearted response. He told Variety,

Trending

“Somebody needs a hug. It’s just a movie guys.”

The Rookie star appears in Superman as Guy Gardner, the Green Lantern. He was also seen with Maxwell Lord (Sean Gunn) in the Peacemaker Season 2 official teaser.

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