While the lineup forDC’sCreature Commandosis exciting, it glaringly omits one of the best-loved characters from Gunn’s earlier work: King Shark. The announcement ofCreature Commandos, a show focused on a team of misfit monsters and antiheroes, seemed like the perfect chance to reintroduce King Shark.Creature Commandosis the first official project inDCU Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters, but follows on directly fromThe Suicide SquadandPeacemaker -which wereretroactively made DCU canon. The anthropomorphic shark was a standout inThe Suicide Squad, yet is conspicuously missing fromCreature Commandos.
King Shark, voiced by Sylvester Stallone, was one of the most memorable characters in James Gunn’sThe Suicide Squad. Officially named Nanaue, this humanoid shark brought a unique blend of humor and heart to the film. Whether he was struggling to make friends, wearing a hilariously ineffective disguise, or tearing through enemies with terrifying brutality, King Shark balanced comic relief with genuine pathos. His journey from lonely outcast to a valued team member was one of the film’s most emotionally satisfying arcs.
Seriously, Why Is King Shark Not In Creature Commandos?
TheCreature Commandosteam is comprised of non-human prisoners, including characters like Dr Phosphorous, the Bride of Frankenstein, and G.I. Robot. Amanda Waller is banned from recruiting human prisoners following the events ofThe Suicide SquadandPeacemaker, so she turns to monstrous recruits for her next venture. King Shark would have been a seamless addition to this eclectic group, both forqualifying as non-human and having survived the final battleinThe Suicide Squad.
Bringing King Shark intoCreature Commandosseemed like a no-brainer. Not only would his comedic and action-packed presence fit perfectly alongside the eccentric team, but his inclusion would have further connected Gunn’s past DC projects to his future endeavors. His mix of monstrous ferocity and comedic charm aligns perfectly with the team’s tone, and his presencewould have provided a familiar anchor for audiences unfamiliar with the Creature Commandos' comic book origins.Unfortunately, DC missed the perfect opportunity to capitalize on King Shark’s popularity.
Sylvester Stallone Already Revealed He’d Return As King Shark
One of the most compelling reasons to bring King Shark back is that Sylvester Stallone has already expressed enthusiasm about reprising the role. In an interview withComicBook.com, Stallone stated that he’d be more than willing to return as Nanaue, saying:“I think James has been very generous… He and I are pretty tight. So if there’s an opportunity… I love him, he’s great.”Havingan actor of Stallone’s caliber eager to revisit the charactermakes his exclusion fromCreature Commandoseven more puzzling.
Creature Commandos Episodes 1 & 2 Easter Eggs And DC References Explained
Creature Commandos episodes 1 & 2 are filled with exciting Easter eggs and DC references as the very first look at the new DC Universe.
Stallone’s performance as King Shark was a major factor in the character’s popularity. His deep, gruff voice lent both humor and gravitas to the role, turning what could have been a one-note character into a fully realized personality. Stallone’s return would have been a huge draw for fans,lending star power toCreature Commandoswhile reinforcing the DCU’s connection toThe Suicide Squad. Given these advantages, it’s hard to understand why DC didn’t jump at the chance to bring King Shark into the fold.
Creature Commandos
Cast
Creature Commandos follows the exploits of a secret team of incarcerated monsters recruited for perilous missions unsuitable for humans. Released in December 2024, the film explores themes of redemption and collaboration as the monstrous squad is tasked with handling threats that present dire challenges beyond human capability.
