Penguin Season 2 Uncertain, But Another DC Show Gets Big HBO Max Update

The Penguin and the Future of DC TV

As we approach the one-year anniversary of The Penguin premiering on HBO, the show has once again captured the attention of fans and critics alike. This renewed interest comes after the series received six nominations for the 2025 Primetime Emmy Awards. However, despite this recognition, it remains uncertain whether The Penguin will return for a second season. For now, the only confirmed project in Matt Reeves’ Gotham City saga is The Batman: Part II, set for release in 2027.

But there's more to the DC Universe story. Another upcoming DC TV show has just received a significant update, though this one is exclusive to HBO Max subscribers. This development adds to the growing list of projects under the DC Studios umbrella, which continues to expand its reach across streaming platforms.

Introducing Booster Gold

When James Gunn and Peter Safran first announced the DC Universe franchise’s opening slate, Gods and Monsters, Booster Gold was one of the TV shows revealed. Since then, updates on the series have been scarce. However, recent news from Deadline indicates that Our Flag Means Death creator David Jenkins has been hired to write the pilot. If Booster Gold receives a series order, Jenkins is expected to serve as showrunner.

This move is a positive step for the character, who deserves a broader audience. In the comics, Michael Jon Carter hails from the 25th century and was once a disgraced college football player. He stole various pieces of superhero tech while working as a night watchman at the Metropolis Space Museum. Using a Time Sphere, he traveled back to the present day with a reprogrammed security robot named Skeets, aiming to achieve fame and glory as a superhero.

A New Era for Booster Gold

Booster Gold has previously appeared in live-action roles, with Eric Martsoff portraying the character in Smallville and Donald Faison in Legends of Tomorrow. However, this new TV show has the potential to elevate the character’s popularity. As one of DC’s more comedic superheroes, Booster Gold is well-suited for a lighthearted take, and Jenkins' experience with Our Flag Means Death makes him an ideal choice for the pilot.

Assuming Booster Gold moves forward, it would mark a return for Jenkins to HBO Max, where Our Flag Means Death ran for two seasons. This collaboration could bring fresh energy to the DCU and introduce a new generation of fans to the character.

Behind the Scenes Changes

This news follows months of speculation about the show’s direction. Earlier, it was reported that Danny McBride had been tapped to be Booster Gold’s showrunner, but he eventually became too busy and lost interest in the project. There were also rumors that Kumail Nanjiani might play the role, but James Gunn later dismissed these claims.

Other DCU projects, such as Waller and Paradise Lost, are also progressing, albeit more slowly. Fans are hoping to learn whether Booster Gold will get a series order before the year ends.

Upcoming Projects on HBO Max

For now, the next major DC TV show to look forward to is Peacemaker Season 2, which will premiere on HBO Max next month. In early 2026, Lanterns will explore the Green Lantern mythology within the DCU on the same platform.

If you're interested in watching The Penguin and other DC TV shows, including Our Flag Means Death, signing up for HBO Max is a great option. Plans start at $9.99 per month, with three tiers available, or you can prepay for a year and save up to 20%.