In a surprising revelation, James Gunn shared the character he feels most personally connected to— and it isn’t DC’s iconic Superman. Instead, that honor goes to Marvel’s beloved Rocket Raccoon. Rocket is James Gunn’s favorite character because of the emotional depth and personal connection he poured into the role. Notably, this choice shows how Gunn draws inspiration from his own life experiences in his creative process. Moreover, it signals that emotional resonance, rather than brand loyalty, shapes his storytelling priorities.
Rocket Raccoon Is James Gunn’s Favorite Character
During a candid interview, the DC Studios co-head opened up about his emotional journey with Rocket Raccoon—James Gunn’s favorite character and a figure he helped bring to life in the Guardians of the Galaxy films.
“Rocket is me,” Gunn admitted. “He reflects the most personal parts of who I am — his pain, his humor, his feeling of being misunderstood — that all comes from a real place.”
Rocket’s evolution from a tortured genetic experiment to a team leader is full of raw emotion, resilience, and redemption. That arc mirrors Gunn’s own life experiences, which is exactly why Rocket remains James Gunn favorite character.
Beyond DC: How James Gunn’s favorite character Shaped His Work
Although Gunn is now shaping the future of the DC Universe, it was Rocket’s story that helped him express his emotional truth on screen. In Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, Rocket confronts his painful origins. He ultimately finds healing through the love of his chosen family.
“I cried while writing Rocket. I cried while filming Rocket. And I cried while watching him come to life,” Gunn revealed.
His emotional connection to Rocket helped him craft one of the most impactful arcs in the MCU.
Why Superman Isn’t James Gunn favorite character
While many fans expected Superman to hold a special place in Gunn’s heart—especially now that he’s leading the DCU reboot—Gunn clarified that Superman symbolizes hope, but he’s not James Gunn’s favorite character, as the character doesn’t reflect his personal story.
Rocket, on the other hand, embodies internal struggle and personal transformation—qualities that Gunn intimately relates to.
Can a DC Character Match Rocket’s Impact?
With his new DCU underway, fans are now wondering whether any upcoming character will resonate with Gunn the way Rocket did. While Gunn has expressed love for the DC roster, no figure has yet claimed the same emotional significance.
Still, as stories unfold, it’s possible that someone from DC may challenge Rocket’s place as James Gunn’s favorite character.
Rocket Raccoon may come from Marvel, but his story is deeply rooted in James Gunn’s personal growth. His pain, humor, and journey reflect Gunn’s own evolution as a creator and human being. While the world eagerly awaits what Gunn brings to DC, his favorite character will likely remain Rocket—not for his powers or popularity, but for their shared vulnerability.
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