James Gunn addressed the role of Chris Pratt within the DC Universe (DCU) in a recent interview, dispelling rumors about Pratt potentially playing Batman. Gunn explicitly stated that Pratt will not portray The Dark Knight but confirmed that he does have a place in the DCU in another capacity. This announcement came during a conversation focused on the upcoming Peacemaker Season 2, where Gunn emphasized his enthusiasm for working with Pratt in a different role.
Gunn and Pratt famously collaborated on all three Guardians of the Galaxy films, where Pratt is known for his portrayal of Star-Lord. Their long-standing working relationship strengthens the possibility of Pratt joining the DCU cast in a separate part. Gunn remarked,
“would love to do something at DC. I would love for him to do something at DC…”
and added that he
“have to think about [what character],”
indicating that while the role is undecided, Pratt’s involvement remains highly probable.
Gunn’s pattern of welcoming former Guardians cast members into DC projects supports this likelihood. Actors like Bradley Cooper, Michael Rooker, and Pom Klementieff have all appeared in small roles within the DCU, while Gunn’s brother, Sean Gunn, plays Max Lord in Peacemaker Season 2. This strategy highlights Gunn’s preference for collaborating with familiar talent across different franchises.
Current Status of Batman Casting and Related Projects
The question of who will embody Batman within the DCU remains open, especially concerning the highly anticipated project The Brave and The Bold, which appears to be temporarily deprioritized as creators focus on other initiatives. James Gunn has ruled out Robert Pattinson reprising Batman within the DCU, confirming that Pattinson will remain exclusive to Matt Reeves’ separate Batman universe.
Instead, the DCU might consider other actors known for physicality and strong screen presence, such as Alan Ritchson or Jensen Ackles, as potential candidates for the role of Batman. This approach suggests a different direction for the character within the shared DC Universe, distinct from Reeves’ Batman storyline.
Updates on The Batman Part 2 and Its Continuity
Matt Reeves completed the script for The Batman Part 2 earlier this year, receiving positive feedback from James Gunn, Peter Safran, and DC executives. The sequel is scheduled to begin filming early next year, with a planned release date of October 1, 2027. Notably, Colin Farrell will return as The Penguin in a smaller role, alongside Jeffrey Wright and Andy Serkis reprising their parts as Commissioner Gordon and Alfred.
These developments confirm The Batman Part 2’s active production status, separate from the DCU’s Bat-related projects overseen by Gunn. Fans can expect more details on both The Brave and The Bold and The Batman Part 2 as these projects progress.
