Dwayne Johnson, reportedly prevented any potential Black Adam tie-ins from appearing in Shazam! Fury of the Gods. This decision follows Johnson’s expressed thoughts on the Shazam character and his films since their introduction into the DCEU.

Johnson Passes On Shazam! Fury Of The Gods Cameo

According to reports, Johnson harbors a thinly veiled disdain for Zachary Levi’s DC hero and his movies, resulting in Johnson passing on a cameo appearance in Shazam! Fury of the Gods. The wrestler-turned-actor preferred to keep the two characters separate and did not allow any Black Adam actors to be used in the Shazam sequel.

Johnson Vetoes Shazam And Justice Society Of America Crossover

Reports indicate that Johnson vetoed a plan that would have seen his DC debut close with a post-credit scene in which Aldis Hodge’s Hawkman and a number of other costumed heroes reached out to Shazam to join the Justice Society of America (JSA). The JSA played a prominent role in Johnson’s Black Adam film, with no clear indication of if and when they will show up again in the DCU going forward.

DC Universe-Building Issues

Johnson’s decision to prevent any potential tie-ins between Black Adam and Shazam! Fury of the Gods brings up the issue of universe-building in the DCU. While Johnson has spoken about the tonal differences between Black Adam and Shazam, the crossing over of genres is necessary for universe-building. However, it seems that Warner Bros. and the past DC regime were so focused on appeasing Johnson that they sacrificed valuable world-building because of it.

Johnson’s time with DC is seemingly done, but the actor may have well pitched Black Adam as a proto-Elseworlds if he was not going to be ready to participate in the universe he was so enthusiastic to join.