James Gunn addressed a recent fan request urging him to include Robert Pattinson‘s Batman in the DC Universe (DCU), directly sharing his thoughts on the possibility. The conversation adds clarity on the ongoing speculation about whether Pattinson’s version of the character, a central point in the ongoing Batman films, might become part of Gunn’s reimagined superhero universe.
Separate Paths for Pattinson’s Batman and the DCU
Robert Pattinson starred as Bruce Wayne in 2022’s “The Batman,” a film directed by Matt Reeves. Pattinson is set to reprise his role in a sequel scheduled for release on October 1, 2027, by Warner Bros. Pictures. While these films follow their own narrative, James Gunn and Peter Safran launched a new direction for DC stories with the start of their DCU in December 2024, beginning with the animated “Creature Commandos.” The universe will expand soon with Gunn’s upcoming “Superman” movie, followed by “Peacemaker” Season 2 arriving in August.
It is clear that the world of “The Batman” and the DCU are separate. This has not stopped fans of the character from expressing their desire to see Pattinson continue his journey as Batman within Gunn’s new universe, hoping for some crossover or acknowledgement that might unite the two distinct timelines.
James Gunn Addresses Fan Comments
In a recent discussion on Threads, a user claimed that every fan wants Robert Pattinson’s Batman to be part of the DCU. Gunn responded:
“All would seem to be pushing it.”
—James Gunn, DC Studios Co-Head
This reply aligns with Gunn’s previous statements indicating that there are currently no plans to integrate Pattinson’s interpretation of the Dark Knight into the DCU’s main continuity. At this stage, it remains uncertain who will be cast as Batman in the future DCU live-action projects. The character appears briefly, though voiceless, in “Creature Commandos,” but no further casting or story details have been disclosed so far.
Plans for Batman and Other DCU Characters
David Zaslav, CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery, recently emphasized that the future of the DCU will focus on four main heroes: Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, and Supergirl. The casting for Diana Prince, also known as Wonder Woman, is still to be confirmed, though a film centered on the character is in development. Milly Alcock was announced as the new Supergirl. Additionally, the DCU is planning a “Brave and the Bold” movie, to be directed by Andy Muschietti of “The Flash” fame, though updates on that project have been limited.
As anticipation builds, fans can expect more details on the direction of these key characters. Both the new DCU and Matt Reeves’ Batman universe will continue to develop on separate tracks, with the likelihood of a crossover featuring Pattinson’s Batman remaining minimal at this time.
