The Robert Pattinson Batman DCU debate has intensified as James Gunn’s DC Universe (DCU) expands following the release of Superman and Peacemaker season 2. While a new film titled The Brave and the Bold is slated to introduce a different actor as Batman within the DCU, some fans insist that Robert Pattinson’s portrayal should remain the sole official Batman in this evolving cinematic world. This tension reflects deep fan investment in how Batman’s legacy will be handled amid DC’s broader cinematic plans.
A recent Reddit post sparked renewed discussion, arguing that Pattinson’s Batman, who will return in The Batman 2, should remain confined to the DC Elseworlds category rather than merge into the official DCU continuity. The argument was anchored in observations from Peacemaker season 2 that suggest a tonal and thematic mismatch between Pattinson’s Batman and the current DCU storyline.
Fan Arguments Highlight the Separation of Batman Versions
One Reddit user cited multiple denials from James Gunn about integrating Pattinson’s Batman into the main DCU timeline, emphasizing that the Reeves-directed Batman films have been confirmed as separate Elseworlds projects. The user noted:
“I am still amazed that even after MANY denials by James Gunn that The Batman/Battinson would be Canon to the DCU, after many confirmations that The Batman Reevesverse would be Elseworlds, after many confirmations that Brave and the Bold would be the Batman of the DCU and they’re casting a new actor, people STILL believe a merger would be happening,” —Reddit user
The Redditor also pointed out details from Peacemaker season 2 such as the introduction of White Rabbit—a character unlikely to appear in a Reeves Batman story—and metahumans escaping from Arkham, underscoring the perceived thematic rift. They concluded that director Matt Reeves would have to considerably alter his vision to blend Pattinson’s grounded Batman with the more fantastical elements of the DCU.
Diverse Fan Views on Batmans’ Coexistence in the DCU
The debate drew passionate responses from fans on both sides. One commenter argued that the distinct tones of the respective Batman portrayals made coexistence impossible, stating:
“The worlds are so obviously incompatible and Gunn himself has said so. Anyone who thinks Reeves’ Batman could possibly coexist with the DCU’s casual pocket dimensions and imps and kaiju goofiness isn’t being serious,” —Fan
However, others disagreed, suggesting that different tonal styles can coexist, especially since James Gunn reportedly wants to feature varied projects within the DCU. A fan remarked:
“I’m not saying the Reeves universe should be a part of the DCU – I don’t think it should, personally because Reeves clearly has his own plans laid out and they should just call it an Elseworlds story and let the man cook – but saying ‘This dark and grounded thing can’t exist in a world where goofy comic book shenanigans happen’ is a bit silly,” —Fan
Further pointing to Gunn‘s plans, another user noted that the DCU’s upcoming slate includes diverse tones such as a body horror-themed Clayface film, suggesting there’s room for a dark and gritty Batman as well.
Concerns Over Dividing the Batman Fanbase and Franchise
Some fans expressed frustration about having two Batmans simultaneously, fearing this could confuse or divide the audience. One fan simply asserted:
“I just think it’s stupid to have 2 Batmans when you can have 1,” —Fan
Another fan highlighted Pattinson’s popularity and the risks involved with a new version, explaining:
“Especially when the current one is so well received with a huge star behind the mask, You need a new actor, a new Batmobile, a new Wayne Manor, everything. You have to make it different enough, but people have to like it. Pattinson’s interpretation is one of the most popular because it’s such a good interpretation of the character. With a new Batman in the DCU, they risk audiences being underwhelmed,” —Fan
Beyond creative and practical concerns, some viewers lament the recurring factionalism within the DC fandom over Batman. One fan expressed a wish for unity, commenting:
“The reason I wanted Battinson in the DCU is to avoid the inevitable fan war that will come once the DCU Batman is revealed, With people arguing about who is better, which movies are better, who’s the better actor, and why the other one is trash, etc. Like what we’re seeing with fans of the new Superman and fans of the Snyder Superman. Why does the DC fan base always have to be divided,” —Fan
Looking Ahead: Two Batman Films on Separate Paths
At present, two distinct Batman projects remain on track, underscoring the divide at the heart of the debate. Robert Pattinson’s Batman is set to return in The Batman 2 scheduled for release in 2027, firmly rooted in the Reevesverse. Meanwhile, The Brave and the Bold, part of the official DCU reboot with James Gunn at the helm, will feature a new actor in the Caped Crusader role once its script meets production expectations.
Meanwhile, fans can anticipate more from the DCU with the upcoming release of Supergirl in 2026, alongside various other movies and shows expanding the universe. As the DCU shapes its identity, the Robert Pattinson Batman DCU debate remains emblematic of wider questions about tone, continuity, and fan expectations within the franchise.
