Tyler Hoechlin has expressed his ongoing interest in portraying Batman within James Gunn’s DC Universe, continuing a connection to the character that dates back several years. Initially, when DC was developing a younger Batman movie centered on the hero’s second year, Hoechlin was considered for the role.
At that time, the direction hinged on whether “Man of Steel” reached $1 billion at the box office. When it fell short, DC shifted focus to an older Batman played by Ben Affleck, cancelled plans for “Man of Steel 2” and a new Batman movie featuring a younger hero, and instead pursued “Batman vs. Superman.” Meanwhile, Hoechlin was cast as Superman in The CW’s DC Universe series, including “Superman & Lois,” where his portrayal has been highly regarded, drawing comparisons to Christopher Reeve’s iconic take on the character.
The Batman film eventually took a different route under director Matt Reeves, who released a movie starring Robert Pattinson as the Dark Knight in his second year as a hero. It’s noted that Reeves was initially interested in overseeing DC’s cinematic universe, but ultimately, Zack Snyder retained control of that franchise direction.
Tyler Hoechlin Shares His Perspective on Playing Batman
During the recent Toronto Fan Expo Canada, Tyler Hoechlin addressed questions from Screen Rant about whether Robert Pattinson’s Batman would be incorporated into James Gunn’s DC Universe. Hoechlin expressed hope that the different versions wouldn’t merge, as he still desires to take on the Batman role himself.
“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…”
—Tyler Hoechlin, actor
Upcoming Developments for Batman in James Gunn’s DC Universe
James Gunn has indicated that the DC Universe will wait until “The Batman 2,” expected in 2027, before moving forward with their own Batman project. Gunn is also reportedly writing a new film within the “Superman Saga,” which may potentially include the Dark Knight character.
Director Andy Muschietti remains attached to the film “Brave and the Bold,” with the script still in development. Muschietti, along with Matt Reeves, attended the premiere for Gunn’s latest Superman film. There are suggestions that Gunn favors Robert Pattinson to continue as Batman in the DCU, although Reeves may have differing views.
Besides Hoechlin and Pattinson, another actor mentioned as a candidate for Batman in Gunn’s universe is Brandon Sklenar, though no official casting decisions have been confirmed.
