Considering all that’s going on at DC Studios, it shouldn’t be a surprise that rumors were spewing that Zachary Levi would be recast as Billy Batson aka Shazam. But as it turns out, fans can be rest assured that Zachary Levi and DC have a perfectly fine relationship. In fact, it’s “Gucci”, which the kids (or Urban Dictionary) will tell you is a good thing.
The rumors come on the heels of major shake-ups at DC Studios, with James Gunn and Peter Safran taking over as co-chairmen and chief executive officers. Most notably, three of the most promising properties have been altered or axed completely. Since Gunn and Safran stepped in, Superman, Wonder Woman and Black Adam have all been making headlines for the changes.
Despite a promising return to the cape, Henry Cavill has been ousted as the Man of Steel. Following that came word that the next Wonder Woman would be removed from the production calendar (although James Gunn promises Gal Gadot wasn’t “booted”…). Most recently, Dwayne Johnson revealed that his involvement at DC Studios will be limited for the time being, saying, “James Gunn and I connected, and Black Adam will not be in their first chapter of storytelling.”
The first Shazam! made $366 million worldwide, making it one of the 25 highest-grossing movies of 2019. With the build-up surrounding the sequel, one wonders if it could match the profits of the original, especially with Zachary Levi back as the title character.
According to the official website: “From New Line Cinema comes Shazam! Fury of the Gods, which continues the story of teenage Billy Batson who, upon reciting the magic word “SHAZAM!,” is transformed into his adult Super Hero alter ego, Shazam.” In addition to Zachary Levi reprising his role as Shazam, David F. Sandberg returns to direct.
Shazam: Fury of the Gods hits theaters on March 17th, 2023. It was originally slated to be released this month, but was shifted after Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom got moved up.
What do you think of Zachary Levi in the role of Shazam? Should he continue as the superhero? Let us know in the comments below!