Does Darkseid Appear in 'Justice League'?

WARNING: This article contains SPOILERS!

There has been a lot of rumor and speculation surrounding Justice League, ever since it was announced. One of the biggest points of speculation was which DC Comics villain would be appearing in the film, with one particular choice in mind: Darkseid.

The warmongering ruler of Apokolips his one of the biggest villains in the entire DC Universe, which makes him one of the only villains big enough for a film like Justice League. However, the film has clearly made Darkseid's conquering general Steppenwolf its antagonist - but that hasn't stopped DC fans from theorizing that Darkseid could be being saved for a surprise appearance in the actual film.

So: Does Darkseid appear in Justice League? Read on only if you want to know!

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The short answer to the question is: sort of.

We never actually see the DCEU DC Extended Universe version of Darkseid during Justice League; instead, we get a very brief name-drop, teasing the character's existence. After Steppenwolf finally gets his hands on the three Mother Boxes and uses them to form "The Unity" he makes the declaration that, among other reasons mentioned, he's doing it "for Darkseid."

DC Comics Super-Villains: The Complete Visual History Gallery

Other than that name-drop, it's just traces of Darkseid's presence and militant creed that we get. It's clear he tried to conquer Earth and make it part of his empire in ancient times, and when Steppenwolf failed in that invasion, Darkseid banished him from Apokolips for being weak. With the return of Superman, and Steppenwolf being defeated by a new breed of Earth's heroes, it's possible that Darkseid will have to step out of the shadows, and handle this particular campaign of conquer himself.

Next: Justice League Official Review

Justice League is now in theaters; Aquaman arrives on December 21, 2018; Shazam on April 5, 2019; Wonder Woman 2 on November 1st, 2019; Cyborg on April 3, 2020; and Green Lantern Corps on July 24, 2020.