Sean Gunn, 50, Bids Rocket Raccoon Goodbye for a DC Surprise

Sean Gunn, best known for his role as Kraglin in the Guardians of the Galaxy films, has confirmed that he will no longer perform motion‑capture work for Rocket Raccoon. The actor says his retirement comes after turning 50 and feeling the physical toll of the green‑screen leotard he wears to make himself appear smaller.

This marks the end of a dual role that has blended on‑screen acting with behind‑the‑scenes performance capture.

During an interview on *The Brandon Davis Show*, Gunn explained the discomfort he experiences while performing in the tight, black leotard. “Yes! Everyone thinks it’s my knees, but it’s really my feet and my ankles,” he said.

“I’m in a catcher’s crouch, and I’m pivoting a lot on my points of contact with the ground. I’m doing a lot of pivoting in my ankles and feet. And over the years, I think it had a little bit of an effect on my physiology.”

Gunn added that his knees remain fine, but he feels the cumulative strain has taken its toll. “My knees are fine, but since I turned 50 a couple of years ago, I am retired from Rocket. Not that [Marvel has] called, but if they did, I don’t think I could do the motion reference for Rocket anymore.

I’m too old,” he said. He clarified that Marvel has not formally announced his departure.

## Background & Context

Rocket Raccoon, voiced by Bradley Cooper, has relied on Gunn’s physical performance to bring the character’s quirky movements to life. As a double‑duty performer, Gunn has appeared on screen as Kraglin and in motion capture for Rocket across all Guardians of the Galaxy films, including the 2023 release of Volume 3.

The franchise has yet to reveal any plans for a fourth installment.

Gunn’s brother, James Gunn, who directed the Guardians series, recently hinted that he intends to bring more Marvel actors into the DC Universe. He holds a position as co‑chief executive of DC Studios alongside Peter Safran. This move could signal increased collaboration between the two cinematic universes in future projects.

## Transition to DCU and Upcoming Roles

Sean Gunn has already begun his transition into the DC Universe, taking on the villain Maxwell Lord in the 2025 film *Superman*. He will also appear in the Season 2 premiere episode of *Peacemaker*, further expanding his presence within DC’s growing slate.

With Gunn stepping back from Rocket, a new performer will fill the motion‑capture role, while his DC projects showcase his versatility. Fans of both universes can look forward to seeing how his skills translate into the new setting.

While Gunn’s retirement from Rocket Raccoon marks the end of an era for the Guardians franchise, it also opens doors for fresh talent and signals his continued evolution as a performer in both Marvel and DC narratives.