Joel Kinnaman Teases Rick Flag Jr.’s DCU Return After Peacemaker Season 2
Joel Kinnaman has indicated that his run as Rick Flag Jr. in the DCU likely ended with Peacemaker season 2. He made the revelation in an interview with ScreenRant’s Liam Crowley. Kinnaman said audiences have probably seen the character’s last on-screen appearance.
Character history and television return
Kinnaman first played Rick Flag Jr. in David Ayer’s 2016 Suicide Squad. The character died in James Gunn’s 2021 film The Suicide Squad. Peacemaker later brought Flag back via flashback sequences.
What Kinnaman told ScreenRant
When asked about a future return, Kinnaman replied, “I would say so.” He described the Peacemaker version of Flag as an “alternate universe, mealy‑mouthed Rick.”
He also admitted he is bad at keeping plot secrets. He said stepping away from social media makes staying quiet easier now.
How the reunion came about
Kinnaman and James Gunn kept in touch after The Suicide Squad. Gunn called about a “little fun thing” and invited Kinnaman to join Peacemaker season 2. Kinnaman said he was happy to participate as friends.
Gunn reportedly had always pictured Flag appearing on Peacemaker season 2. Kinnaman said he did not know about the plan. He called Gunn a “mad genius” for thinking so far ahead.
On-set contrasts and professionalism
Kinnaman contrasted his experience on the 2016 set with the 2021 production. He described the 2016 shoot as chaotic and less professional. He praised Gunn’s set as far more organized and focused.
Current work and streaming credits
Since leaving the franchise, Kinnaman has moved to new projects. These include the film Icefall. He also appears in TV shows Imperfect Women and Jo Nesbø’s Detective Hole. The latter two premiered on Apple TV and Netflix, respectively.
He remains a lead on For All Mankind. The series earned him a Saturn Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor on Television (Streaming). Season five is streaming on Apple TV, with a finale set for May 29.
Where the DCU goes next
James Gunn is not attached to Peacemaker season 3. He is, however, advancing other DCU projects. Upcoming titles include Supergirl, Clayface, Man of Tomorrow, and Lanterns. These follow Gunn’s relaunch efforts with Superman, Creature Commandos, and Peacemaker.
Peacemaker production notes
- Original run: 2022–2025.
- Network: HBO Max / Max.
- Directors involved: James Gunn, Brad Anderson, Rosemary Rodriguez.
This update closes the chapter on Kinnaman’s Rick Flag Jr. in live action. Fans will watch DCU developments for any future surprises.
