A former actor who portrayed Superman has expressed a strong interest in joining James Gunn‘s DC Universe (DCU) as Batman in the upcoming film The Brave and The Bold. Amid the ongoing development of DC Studios’ Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters, the Batman reboot represents one of the most anticipated projects, focusing on rebooting the character within Gunn’s new superhero universe.
The Brave and The Bold will center on Bruce Wayne as he builds a complex father–son relationship with Damian Wayne, also known as Robin, while exploring the broader Bat-Family in the DCU. Casting for this movie has not yet begun; however, various actors across Hollywood have already voiced their enthusiasm for taking on the legendary role of Batman under DC Studios’ vision.
Tyler Hoechlin Shares His View on Reprising Batman in the New DC Universe
At this year’s FAN EXPO Canada, where ScreenRant was a media partner, actor Tyler Hoechlin, known for playing Superman in the Arrowverse, shared his thoughts about Robert Pattinson’s Batman and the possibility of reprising the Dark Knight himself in Gunn’s DCU. During the Men of Steel panel hosted by ScreenRant’s Joe Deckelmeier, Hoechlin commented:
ScreenRant: Have you guys seen Robert Pattinson [as] Batman? Do you think that Robert Pattinson’s Batman fits into James Gunn’s DCU?
Tyler Hoechlin: Well, selfishly, I’m going to say no because I still want to play Batman. I think and I say that Rob did a fantastic, fantastic job and [with] Matt Reeves it was great. So I’m happy to let them keep doing their thing, and maybe leave the door open for maybe an additional whole new envisioning of Batman versus Superman.
—Tyler Hoechlin, Actor
Hoechlin first stepped into the role of Superman during season 2 of Supergirl and appeared in several Arrowverse crossover events. He later portrayed the Man of Steel in the series Superman & Lois until its conclusion in 2024, making him a familiar face within the DC multiverse. Given his experience with superhero roles and his connection to the franchise, Hoechlin’s interest in playing Batman is a notable development for fans and the industry.
Understanding the Implications of Hoechlin’s Interest in Batman
Despite some fans hoping to see Robert Pattinson’s Batman incorporated into the DCU, DC Studios has repeatedly stated that Matt Reeves’ Batman universe will remain an Elseworlds story, separate from Gunn’s cinematic vision. Hoechlin acknowledged this distinction, recognizing that Pattinson’s Batman works well as a standalone interpretation, while Gunn’s DCU will offer a fresh perspective on the character.
Since the casting for the Batman role in The Brave and The Bold has not started and will likely depend on the completion of the film’s script, the question of who will portray Bruce Wayne remains open. Hoechlin’s explicit wish to take on Batman leaves the door open for potential consideration, although nothing is confirmed at this stage.
Why Tyler Hoechlin Could Be a Strong Choice as Batman
Hoechlin’s enthusiasm for playing Batman aligns with the qualities needed for The Brave and The Bold, especially given his background in portraying serious and layered characters. His previous role as Superman featured a father figure struggling with complex family dynamics, which mirrors the intended focus of the upcoming Batman movie on Bruce Wayne’s relationship with his son, Damian.
The storyline of The Brave and The Bold will delve deeply into the Bat-Family, particularly the unique father–son connection between Batman and Robin. Hoechlin’s prior experience with emotional and family-centered storytelling in the Arrowverse could make him well-suited to bring authenticity and depth to this new version of Bruce Wayne. When DC Studios begins casting, his name could be a compelling option for audiences eager to see a multifaceted Batman.
Overall, the film aims to reboot Batman within James Gunn’s DC Universe, further expanding the narrative of one of comics’ most iconic superheroes. This reboot will not only redefine the Dark Knight for a new generation but also highlight themes of legacy and family through the dynamic between Bruce Wayne and Damian Wayne, setting the stage for a fresh chapter in the evolving DC superhero saga.
