James Gunn Says He Doesn’t See a Dime From Baby Groot Sales

James Gunn has cemented himself as one of the most successful superhero directors in Hollywood. Not only did he deliver Marvel fans the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy, but he’s also now leading the charge at DC Studios with his acclaimed Superman film that hit theaters this year.

With a sequel already confirmed, Gunn is balancing two of the biggest comic book universes out there. But fans who have followed him since his Marvel days might be surprised by a recent revelation he made about one of his most beloved creations… Baby Groot.

I’m sure you all remember how Baby Groot absolutely stole the show in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. He quickly became a fan-favorite, much like Grogu did in The Mandalorian.

Just like Baby Yoda toys flew off the shelves, Baby Groot merch dominated when the movie dropped. With all that popularity, you’d think Gunn would be raking in some serious cash from those sales. Turns out, that’s not the case at all.

Speaking on The Howard Stern Show, Gunn explained:

“We created the character of Baby Groot, you know, I drew that character. I don’t make any of that money in the same way that comic-book artists don't.”

That’s right. Gunn doesn’t see a single dollar from Baby Groot toys, Funko Pops, plushies, or any of the endless collectibles that fans snatch up.

It’s a shocking truth considering how much of his own creativity went into shaping the character. He even revealed that Baby Groot isn’t a reincarnated Groot, but more of a “Jr.” with his own memories, personality, and quirks. Some of his dance moves even came directly from Gunn himself.

Of course, Gunn wants fans to know he’s not exactly hurting for money. He went on to add:

“I’m incredibly well paid. Guardians 2 and 3, especially Guardians 3. I’m incredibly well paid up front and on the back end. I make back-end dollars, too. I just don't make money off merchandising.”

That makes sense when you think about how massive the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise became. The first film was an instant Marvel top-tier release back in 2014, and each sequel only strengthened its impact. Baby Groot alone probably helped guarantee that a third film would happen.

Still, it raises some interesting questions about how merchandising profits, especially with comic creators, who don’t really see extra pay when it comes to bringing their characters to life in film, TV, action figures, toys, or games.

At the end of the day, it doesn’t seem to bother Gunn too much.