For all the momentum that Superman gave the rebooted DC Universe, the movie has already led to some head-scratching choices. Shortly after the film hit theaters to glowing critical praise, a report from the Wall Street Journal claimed that DC bosses James Gunn and Peter Safran were planning “multiple” TV spinoffs. One would reportedly focus on Edi Gathegi’s scene-stealer, Mr. Terrific, which sounded like a total no-brainer. The other, however, was a surprise: a show focusing on Jimmy Olsen (Skyler Gisondo) and his work at the Daily Bugle.
Like Terrific, Jimmy was the focus of one of Superman’s more diverting subplots. He’s an interesting character, but he’s always been a minor part of the DC Universe. Without powers, he has to rely on his wits to assist his friends. That can be compelling when juxtaposed with a Superman adventure, but can he hold his own if he’s the star of the story? If we know anything about Gunn, it’s that he loves his misfit groups, and Jimmy’s new spinoff — which is really, officially happening — will test the limits of that focus. Fortunately, DC has also chosen the perfect creative team to spearhead such an unorthodox series.
