Summary:
- James Gunn confirms animated Krypto series, expanding the DCU with heart alongside heroism.
- Krypto’s emotional bond with Superman will take center stage in the upcoming animated spin-off.
- The series joins DCU’s growing TV slate, marking a new era for animated storytelling.
With Superman (2025) positioned as a major reboot of the DC Universe, James Gunn is showing that his version of DC storytelling balances heart with heroism. One of the most talked-about additions to this new era is Krypto the Super-Dog, Superman’s loyal, alien canine companion.
And fans now have a reason to cheer, as Gunn has confirmed that Krypto will receive an animated spin-off series, giving him a greater presence in the newly rebooted DCU. I mean, who doesn’t love dogs, right?
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James Gunn Confirms an Animated Krypto Spin-Off Series in Works
The news came recently in an Instagram exchange, in which a fan asked if he’d consider giving Krypto his own animated series. Gunn’s response? He simply replied, “You’re in luck.” That was the first official indication that a full-length animated Krypto series is in development under the DC Studios.
Even before production started on Superman, Gunn had already made it clear that Krypto would feature in the movie. Inspired by Gunn’s own dog, Ozu, Krypto became a noticeable part of the film’s early marketing.
Although some fans questioned the creative direction, wanting something closer to Krypto’s comic book roots, many fans welcomed the idea, excited to see a heartfelt take on the super-dog. Now it’s clear the studio has much bigger plans for him.
A New Series Joins the Expanding DCU TV Slate
The new Krypto series is the seventh officially announced television series as part of the expanding DCU, following a list that already consists of:
- Creature Commandos
- Lanterns
- Waller
- Paradise Lost
- Booster Gold
- An untitled Blue Beetle spin-off
This series is separate from the previously announced four animated Krypto short films, which are set to begin releasing around September. Intended for kids and families, those shorts were described by Gunn as “fun and goofy.” While the whole series is probably going to have some of that, it’s expected to be more serious in tone, with a focus on Krypto’s backstory and emotional relationships.
Honoring Krypto’s Emotional Bond With Superman
Gunn’s treatment of Krypto isn’t just adding a cute dog to the DCU, it’s an homage to one of Superman’s most meaningful relationships. In the comics and the upcoming movie, Krypto is so much more than a pet. He’s a genuine friend, a symbol of Krypton, and one of the few animals who shares Clark Kent’s alien heritage in earnest.
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Footage from Superman features moments where Krypto drags wounded Clark by the cape and subsequently sleeps peacefully on his chest as he heals, mirroring their bond in classic comics like Action Comics #500. Even a film still features Clark Kent speaking sincerely and genuinely to Krypto within the Fortress of Solitude, indicating how seriously Gunn is treating this relationship in the story.
More Animated Adventures Are on the Horizon
Krypto’s series will join a fresh slate of animated content coming from DC Studios and Warner Bros. Others, such as DC Super Powers, Starfire, and My Adventures with Green Lantern, are also in active development, indicating that the DCU is aiming for a multi-platform strategy. All of animation, live-action TV series, and theatrical films are coming together to unite into a seamless DCU.
For those eager to learn about Krypto’s origin before the animated series, they can read Krypto: The Last Dog of Krypton, written by Ryan North and illustrated by Mike Norton, which launches on June 18, 2025. It will revisit Krypto’s early life on Krypton and how he came to Earth, offering a modern retelling for both new and longtime fans.
Why This Spin-Off Matters
In a franchise often dominated by legendary heroes and cosmic threats, Krypto offers something different: emotional resonance and unconditional loyalty. Superman’s relationships with figures like Lois Lane or Batman have long been explored in film, but his relationship with Krypto has never gotten this kind of spotlight.
With James Gunn at the helm, Krypto is no longer a sidekick, he’s taking center stage. He’ll be featured prominently in Superman, opening in theaters July 11, 2025, and soon he’ll be headlining his own animated series.
That’s not only a victory for fans of the character; it’s a signal that the DCU is open to embracing heart as much as heroics. Krypto’s moment has arrived, and he’s ready to leave his mark on the DCU’s next chapter.
