Noah Romsdal Hallundbæk Sørensen
After Quentin Tarantino publicly questioned Matthew Lillard’s legacy, James Gunn now steps in.
A fresh wave of debate has swept through Hollywood after Quentin Tarantino’s recent remarks about several actors.
As reactions continued to ripple across social media, James Gunn stepped in with a subtle show of support, one that spoke volumes without naming names.
Tarantino’s remarks
While speaking on The Bret Easton Ellis Podcast, Tarantino discussed his choices for the best films of the 21st century, saying There Will Be Blood might have topped his list if not for what he called Paul Dano’s “weak sauce” performance.
He went on to add that “I don’t care for Matthew Lillard,” a comment that quickly triggered backlash online.
Matthew Lillard responded candidly, admitting the criticism “f***in’ sucks” and that “it hurts.” Soon after, fans and fellow creatives flooded platforms with messages defending both Lillard and Dano.
Gunn steps in
Among those backing Lillard was DC Studios co-chief James Gunn.
On Threads, Gunn shared several photos of himself with Lillard, writing: “Just a few photos over the years with one of my favorite guys (and actors) @matthewlillard. No reason.”
Although he never mentioned Tarantino, the timing of the post seemingly makes its intent unmistakable.
Gunn’s decision to keep the focus on celebrating Lillard avoided amplifying any feud, while still aligning him with the wave of public support.
Long-standing ties
Lillard and Gunn previously collaborated on the live-action Scooby-Doo films, written by Gunn.
Lillard played Shaggy opposite Sarah Michelle Gellar, Freddie Prinze Jr., and Linda Cardellini, a period he has often described affectionately.
Though Lillard hasn’t appeared in Gunn’s Marvel or DC projects, he has voiced interest in joining Gunn’s expanding DC Universe, telling fans he would welcome a reunion.
Busy futures
For now, Lillard’s schedule remains packed. He appeared in Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 after its strong box office launch and starred earlier this year in Mike Flanagan’s adaptation of Stephen King’s The Life of Chuck.
He later reteamed with Flanagan for Prime Video’s series based on Carrie, and is set for roles in Daredevil: Born Again season 2 and Scream 7.
Gunn, meanwhile, is deep into work on Man of Tomorrow, the follow-up to 2025’s Superman, while continuing to shape the wider DCU.
With so many projects in motion, opportunities for the two to collaborate again appear increasingly likely.
Sources: Screenrant
