Jimmy Olsen Show: DCU's True Crime Mockumentary, Minus the Man of Steel?

Imagine tuning into a gripping true-crime docuseries, but instead of gritty detectives, you've got a plucky photographer from the Daily Planet leading the investigation into super-powered shenanigans. That's the intriguing premise behind a new DC Universe (Dcu) TV project reportedly in the works for HBO Max, featuring Skyler Gisondo's fan-favorite Jimmy Olsen.

TL;DR: The Scoop on the Jimmy Olsen Series

• A Jimmy Olsen-led true-crime mockumentary series is in development for HBO Max, starring Skyler Gisondo.
• DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn clarified that the reported title, "DC Crime," is incorrect.
• The show will focus on Daily Planet staff tackling super-powered villains, with Gorilla Grodd as Season 1's big bad, but without Superman or Lois Lane.

Unraveling the Mystery: What's the Real Title of the Jimmy Olsen Series?

For a show centered on investigative journalism, its own title has become quite the mystery! Recent reports from outlets like Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, and Deadline all dropped the news of a "DC Crime" series, framed as a true-crime docuseries hosted by Jimmy Olsen. It sounded like a fresh, meta approach for the burgeoning DCU, especially coming hot off the heels of the successful Superman movie.

However, DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn, never one to shy away from setting the record straight, quickly took to social media to clarify. On Threads, Gunn stated, "Just FYI there has never been a project titled 'DC Crime' in development, not even as a working title. I don't know where that came from but it's weird." He followed up by adding, "And no that doesn't mean all of the rest of the story is false." So, while the specifics of the show seem to be largely accurate, its official name remains under wraps.

James Gunn on Threads:

"Just FYI there has never been a project titled "DC Crime" in development, not even as a working title. I don't know where that came from but it's weird."

"And no that doesn't mean all of the rest of the story is false."

A Daily Planet Deep Dive: What the Show is Really About

Regardless of its eventual title, the core concept remains wildly inventive for the DCU. This HBO Max project is looking to immerse us in the world of Metropolis, but from a decidedly ground-level perspective. Skyler Gisondo, who delivered a standout performance as Jimmy Olsen in the recent Superman film, is set to reprise his role, leading the charge as the host of an in-universe true-crime docuseries. Imagine him with a microphone, a notepad, and that trusty camera, digging into the weirdest cases the DCU has to offer.

Crucially, this won't be a Superman show in disguise. David Corenswet's Clark Kent and Rachel Brosnahan's Lois Lane are reportedly not involved, giving other Daily Planet staff members a chance to shine. While not officially confirmed by Gunn, reports suggest we could see other familiar faces from the iconic newspaper, such as Wendell Pierce as Perry White, Beck Bennett as Steve Lombard, Mikaela Hoover as Cat Grant, and Christopher McDonald as Ron Troupe. This offers a unique opportunity to flesh out the supporting cast and show how regular people navigate a world full of metahumans.

The Mockumentary Masterminds: Bringing 'American Vandal' Flair to the DCU

The true genius behind the reported series' potential lies with its creative team: Dan Perrault and Tony Yacenda. This duo is renowned for creating the critically acclaimed Netflix mockumentary series, American Vandal. If you haven't seen it, it's a satirical take on the true-crime genre, investigating seemingly trivial high school crimes (like who drew phallic images on cars) with a hyper-serious, investigative lens.

American Vandal wasn't just funny; it was insightful, earning a Peabody Award and an Emmy nomination for its sharp writing. Perrault and Yacenda also created Players, an esports mockumentary for Paramount+. Their involvement suggests the Jimmy Olsen series will blend humor, genuine investigative intrigue, and a unique, self-aware tone that will stand apart from other superhero fare. It hints at a show where the stakes might not always be world-ending, but the human drama and quirky details are utterly compelling.

Gorilla Grodd's Grand Entrance: A Primate Problem for Season One

Every good true-crime series needs a compelling villain, and for the first season of the Jimmy Olsen show, they're reportedly going big – and hairy. The iconic Flash villain, Gorilla Grodd, is set to be the big bad. For those unfamiliar, Grodd is a super-intelligent evil ape who rules a secret African city named Gorilla City. He gained his formidable psychic powers and other abilities after contact with an alien spaceship. Source: [Variety, 'Jimmy Olsen 'DC Crime' Series in the Works at HBO Max From 'American Vandal' Duo, First Season Focused on Gorilla Grodd,' November 10, 2025].

Grodd, created by John Broome and Carmine Infantino, first appeared in DC Comics in 1959. He boasts genius-level intellect, superhuman strength, reflexes, speed, stamina, durability, and potent telepathic and telekinetic abilities. While he has appeared in animated series and the Arrowverse (notably in The CW's The Flash), this would mark his live-action DCU debut beyond a background cameo in Creature Commandos Season 1, Episode 4. Source: [TechRadar, 'A Daily Planet-based true crime docuseries is reportedly in development for HBO Max,' November 10, 2025].

Unlocking the Speed Force: Could Grodd Pave the Way for The Flash?

Grodd's inclusion is incredibly significant because he's primarily a Flash villain. This immediately sparks speculation: could the Jimmy Olsen series serve as a backdoor introduction or at least a confirmation of The Flash's existence in the new DCU? The Scarlet Speedster is one of the few primary Justice League members yet to be officially cast or announced for a solo project.

While the Flash himself might not show up in Jimmy's series, Grodd's presence could confirm that the speedster is out there, somewhere. We've already seen a subtle nod to The Flash in the Superman movie, with a blink-and-you'll-miss-it cameo of Jay Garrick, the original Flash from the comics, depicted in a mural within the Hall of Justice. Source: [CBR, 'Jimmy Olsen's DCU Spinoff Has a Flash Connection,' November 14, 2025]. This small detail, coupled with Grodd's debut, strongly hints that the DCU is laying the groundwork for its own version of Barry Allen or Wally West.

Example: Imagine a scene where Jimmy Olsen, deep into his investigation of a series of impossible high-speed thefts, finds an obscure forum post from "CentralCitySpeedster" detailing how a certain "hyper-intelligent ape" was once stopped by an impossibly fast blur. It's a subtle breadcrumb that confirms the Flash's activity without needing to show him on screen, building anticipation for his eventual reveal.

The Broader DCU Canvas: Where Jimmy Fits in the Grand Scheme

The reported Jimmy Olsen series is part of James Gunn and Peter Safran's "Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters" slate, which kicked off with Gunn's Superman movie (released July 11, 2025). This ambitious plan aims to build a cohesive, interconnected film and TV universe. While major projects like the Man of Tomorrow movie (the Superman sequel, slated for 2027), the Lanterns TV show (expected early 2026), and the Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow movie (June 26) will feature the heavy hitters, shows like the Jimmy Olsen series offer a chance to explore the DCU from different angles.

This approach allows DC Studios to expand its universe without always relying on galaxy-spanning threats. It can introduce fascinating characters and explore unique genres, like the mockumentary, while still feeling connected to the larger narrative. It’s an efficient way to flesh out the DCU's rich history, hinting that metahumans and their villains have been active for centuries, as hinted in the Superman film.

Addressing the Trade-Offs: Spin-Off Fatigue vs. Creative Freedom

Some might worry about "spin-off fatigue," especially in an age where every blockbuster seems to spawn multiple companion shows. There's also the valid concern of introducing a major villain like Gorilla Grodd without his primary heroic antagonist, The Flash. These are fair points that highlight the balancing act any major franchise faces when expanding.

However, the Jimmy Olsen series addresses these concerns head-on with its unique concept and creative team. By leaning into a mockumentary style with the American Vandal duo, the show promises a distinct tone and lower stakes, differentiating it from more traditional superhero fare. This allows for character introductions (like Grodd) in a fresh context, familiarizing audiences with them before their heroes potentially arrive. It's not just another superhero show; it's a creative exploration of how ordinary people, or at least a plucky photographer, deal with the extraordinary in a world teeming with capes and criminals. It lets the DCU breathe and tell diverse stories, rather than feeling obligated to constantly escalate threats.

Practical Takeaways for DCU Fans

• Expect the Unexpected: This series isn't your typical superhero adventure. Prepare for a unique blend of humor, mystery, and a satirical take on true crime.
• A Deeper Dive into Metropolis: Get ready to see the Daily Planet beyond Clark and Lois, offering a street-level perspective on the DCU.
• Flash Teases are Imminent: Gorilla Grodd's presence strongly suggests The Flash's eventual arrival in the DCU is closer than ever.
• Patience is Key: While the concept is exciting, the show is still in development and lacks an official title or greenlight to series. Release dates and production timelines are TBD.

FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered Q: What is the official title of the Jimmy Olsen series? A: While early reports used "DC Crime," DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn has stated that was never the project's title. The official title is currently unknown. Q: Will Superman or Lois Lane appear in the show? A: No, David Corenswet's Clark Kent/Superman and Rachel Brosnahan's Lois Lane are not expected to be involved, allowing other Daily Planet staff to take the spotlight. Q: Who is making the show? A: Dan Perrault and Tony Yacenda, known for the mockumentary series American Vandal, are set to write, executive produce, and showrun. James Gunn and Peter Safran are also executive producers. Q: What villain will Jimmy Olsen investigate in Season 1? A: The first season is reportedly centered around the iconic Flash villain, Gorilla Grodd.

Sources

• ScreenRant, "James Gunn Addresses What Is Going On With The Superman TV Show In The DC Universe," November 10, 2025.
• The Hollywood Reporter, "‘American Vandal’ Creators to Pen ‘Superman’ Movie TV Spinoff Starring Skyler Gisondo," November 10, 2025.
• Variety, "Jimmy Olsen ‘DC Crime’ Series in the Works at HBO Max From ‘American Vandal’ Duo, First Season Focused on Gorilla Grodd," November 10, 2025.
• Deadline, "‘Superman’ Spinoff ‘DC Crime’ Series In Works At DC Studios & HBO Max With ‘American Vandal’ Duo & Skyler Gisondo," November 10, 2025.
• TechRadar, "A Daily Planet-based true crime docuseries is reportedly in development for HBO Max," November 10, 2025.
• Cracked, "The Jimmy Olsen 'Superman' Spin-Off Could Be Great If It's Like 'American Vandal'," November 12, 2025.
• ComicBook.com, "James Gunn Addresses DC Crime Superman Spin-Off," November 10, 2025.
• Nexus Point News, "The Jimmy Olsen 'DC Crime' Series Won't Feature Superman Or Lois Lane," November 14, 2025.
• CBR, "Jimmy Olsen's DCU Spinoff Has a Flash Connection," November 14, 2025.