DC Studios and HBO Max are teaming up to deliver a fresh and unexpected twist on superhero storytelling with the development of DC Crime, a fictional true crime docuseries set within the broader DC Universe. Blending the tone of prestige documentary filmmaking with the rich mythology of DC Comics, the series promises to take viewers on a deep dive into some of the world’s most notorious supervillains—starting with one of The Flash’s most iconic foes.
Titled DC Crime, the series will be framed as a true crime investigation, complete with archival-style footage, interviews, analysis, and narration. The show will be “hosted” by Jimmy Olsen, portrayed by Skyler Gisondo (The Righteous Gemstones, Booksmart) reprising his role from Gunn’s Superman film, who serves as the docuseries’ on-camera journalist guiding viewers through each season’s central case. This pseudo-journalistic approach marks one of DC’s most innovative tonal pivots in recent years, embracing a mockumentary structure that combines dark humor with worldbuilding.
Season 1 will focus on the complex and chilling criminal history of Gorilla Grodd, the hyper-intelligent telepathic gorilla most often associated with Central City and longstanding battles against The Flash. Known for his brutal nature, calculated schemes, and deep resentment toward humanity, Grodd stands out as a villain with a layered psychological profile—one fitting for the investigative true crime format. Through Olsen’s narration and the season-long exploration, audiences will gain a “never-before-seen” perspective on Grodd’s origins, abilities, motivations, and escalating path from scientific experiment to one of the DC Universe’s most dangerous threats.
Behind the camera, DC Crime unites a strong creative team known for sharp satire and inventive storytelling. Tony Yacenda and Dan Perrault—best recognized as the minds behind American Vandal and Players—will serve as writers, executive producers, and showrunners. Their background in mockumentary-style narrative makes them uniquely suited to reinterpret the DC Universe through a true-crime lens, promising a mixture of authenticity, wit, and character-driven depth.
James Gunn and Peter Safran, the co-heads of DC Studios, will executive produce the project, ensuring it aligns with the new creative vision for the DC Universe. DC Studios’ Galen Vaisman is overseeing production, with Warner Bros. Television on board as the producing studio.
While details about additional seasons, release windows, or broader connections to the DCU remain under wraps, DC Crime already stands out as one of the boldest and most imaginative expansions of the franchise. With its creative team, unique format, and character-centric focus, the series aims to bring a fresh and compelling perspective to the world of DC storytelling—one case at a time.
