Patrick Wilson, who played Ocean Master in Aquaman, is actually relieved that Aquaman 3 never happened, here’s why.

The DCEU had its fair share of misses, but Aquaman wasn’t one of them, hence, we got two of them! Over a year after his last splash as Ocean Master, Patrick Wilson is finally speaking out about the franchise and his possible future in James Gunn’s DCU.

Patrick Wilson and Jason Momoa in Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom (2023)| Credits: Warner Bros. Pictures

The Conjuring star, who debuted in Aquaman (2018) and returned for Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom (2023), also shared his thoughts on what could have been if a third film had happened.

Patrick Wilson is glad Aquaman 3 didn’t happen!

Patrick Wilson isn’t losing any sleep over Aquaman 3, in fact, he seems perfectly happy leaving the franchise at two films. With all the behind-the-scenes chaos, namely the Amber Heard controversy, Warner Bros’ constant leadership shake-ups, and the studio meddling with the sequel, it’s quite frankly a miracle that Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom even made it to the big screen.

Unfortunately, director James Wan didn’t get to bring his full vision to life due to studio interference, but in the end, Wilson got his paycheck, and fans got their sequel.

During a recent appearance on the Just for Variety podcast, Patrick Wilson was asked if he wanted Aquaman 3. His answer? A pretty straightforward no. He explained,

Was I hoping it would be more? I don’t think so. I mean, I say this as a guy who’s done several “Insidious” movies, several “Conjurings,” a couple “Aquaman.” It’s not like there’s a stigma to me against sequels. It’s just when you look at the structure of Orm — bad guy in the first one, basically a good guy in the second one — I don’t know where else he goes. I wasn’t signed on for a third. There was no frustration.

Amber Heard from a scene in Aquaman | Credits: Warner Bros. Pictures

He further added,

I don’t know where the story would go. I wouldn’t be opposed to it. We had a great time shooting the second one. I had the best time. I feel really fortunate to have my two forays into superheroes be these bizarre characters of Night Owl Two [in “Watchmen”] and Ocean Master. It’s strange and odd and weird, and I dig that. I’m not going to lie. So, I’m happy with that ship sailing.

While some may have entertained the idea of another deep-sea adventure, Wilson seems more than content with closing the book on Ocean Master’s journey for now at least.

Will Ocean Master return in James Gunn’s DCU?

Patrick Wilson isn’t closing the door completely, but he’s not exactly waiting by the phone, either. Well, judging by his statements on why it’s okay not to be a third installment, he is quite content.

While the actor is open to reprising his role as Ocean Master, he admits he’s unsure how he would even fit into James Gunn’s revamped DC Universe. He said,

Would I go back to it? I mean, if it’s goo. Who’s directing it? What’s the story? He’s such an odd character. I don’t know where you just drop him in. It’s so strange to me. Also, they have taken the DC Universe in a whole different way. We had a good run. It’s okay. So, there’s not one ounce of, “Is there anything?” I would totally play again if it’s worth it, but I just don’t know how.

Speaking about the massive changes under Gunn’s leadership, Wilson made it clear he’s at peace with leaving the character behind. That said, he’s not opposed to coming back if the right opportunity presents itself.

Jason Momoa in a still from Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom || Credits: Warner Bros. Pictures

While he leaves the door slightly open, it sounds like Ocean Master’s chances of resurfacing are slim. For now, Wilson is moving on, unless Gunn finds a reason to pull him back into the deep.

Both Aquaman movies are available to stream on Max.