After Chris Pratt’s success as Star-Lord in Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy, speculation has arisen over his possible inclusion in the DC Universe (DCU) with several roles fans believe he could embody. Although DC Studios’ co-CEO recently dismissed the idea of Pratt portraying Batman, there remains a wide range of characters who could suit his talents and offer fresh dimensions within the DCU.
This article explores five distinctive DC heroes and villains that match Pratt’s on-screen persona yet differ significantly from Peter Quill, suggesting compelling opportunities for the actor’s versatility within DC Comics’ expanding world.
5. The Complex Escapades of Mister Miracle
Scott Free, better known as Mister Miracle, carries a profound history tied to New Genesis and Apokolips. As the son of Highfather, ruler of New Genesis, his upbringing took a dark turn as he was raised by the despotic Darkseid following a peace treaty, forcing Scott to endure harsh treatment on Apokolips. His repeated escape attempts earned him the title of the greatest escape artist in the universe.
Once he reached Earth, Scott became a celebrity escape artist while serving as a part-time superhero. His romantic bond with fellow Apokoliptian refugee Big Barda highlights his personal struggles, as he continues to wrestle with his traumatic past. A new animated series set in the DCU is currently in development, centered around this character.
Chris Pratt’s aptitude for blending humor with emotional depth aligns perfectly with Mister Miracle’s persona, balancing the character’s public spotlight and internal battles. Fans familiar with Tom King’s acclaimed Mister Miracle comic run often agree that Pratt would bring authenticity and charm to this demanding role.
4. The Science-Fueled Adventures of The Atom
Ray Palmer, aka The Atom, is a physicist who uncovers a fragment of a white dwarf star granting him the ability to shrink to microscopic sizes while maintaining his strength and mass. Utilizing a specialized bio-belt, he combats crime and explores the subatomic realms.
Though Brandon Routh delivered a well-received portrayal within the Arrowverse, there is ample room for a new interpretation featuring a marquee actor like Chris Pratt. Ray Palmer possesses a subtle comedic flair, setting an unusual challenge for Pratt to play against his usual heroic archetype.
While some may argue that The Atom should be portrayed by a more traditionally “nerdy” actor, the character’s varied depictions through decades of DC lore leave plenty of creative freedom. This role would allow Pratt to explore untapped facets of a brilliant scientist navigating extraordinary powers in unexpected ways.
3. The Time-Traveling Ambitions of Booster Gold
Michael Jon Carter, known as Booster Gold, is a former 25th-century football star who, due to his obscurity and lack of fame in his original timeline, appropriates advanced technology, including the robotic sidekick Skeets, to travel back to the 20th century and reinvent himself as a superhero.
With DC Studios now officially planning a live-action Booster Gold television series, the project is gaining momentum. Pratt’s extensive television experience, highlighted recently by roles like The Terminal List: Dark Wolf, makes him a compelling candidate to lead this adaptation on the small screen.
Pratt’s physicality and persona align well with Booster Gold’s narrative as a former athlete seeking redemption and recognition. This character could evolve into a significant fixture within the DCU, offering Pratt a rich, relatable role that resonates with fans eager for new heroes.
2. Bringing a Modern Edge to Green Arrow
Oliver Queen, the billionaire vigilante known as Green Arrow, defends Star City armed with his bow and arrow, representing a street-level hero with a sharp sense of justice. James Gunn has shown interest in incorporating Oliver Queen into the DCU, and casting an actor of Pratt’s caliber would elevate the character’s on-screen presence.
The CW’s Arrow series delivered a strong foundation for Green Arrow, but it failed to fully explore some significant aspects such as his romance with Black Canary and his progressive social values, which in the comics led to memorable collaborations like his cross-country journey with Green Lantern.
There remains abundant potential to reinvent Green Arrow‘s story in live-action, with Pratt’s natural charisma and swagger fitting the cocky, determined vigilante who frequently challenges Batman’s approach. This role could add dynamic layers to the DCU’s portrayal of street-level heroes.
1. Reimagining a Villain: The Reverse-Flash
In an unexpected twist, Chris Pratt could stretch his acting range by portraying one of the DCU’s most notorious villains: Reverse-Flash. Although The Flash movie faced critical setbacks, the character of Reverse-Flash, or Eobard Thawne, was spared from being diminished.
Thawne, a 25th-century admirer of The Flash, descended into madness attempting to replicate Barry Allen’s speed powers. His time-traveling vendetta seeks to torment and destroy The Flash’s life. This complex antagonist offers a potent challenge and a dark counterpart to the Fastest Man Alive.
Fans hope James Gunn envisions a refreshed, more comic-accurate adaptation of Barry Allen and/or Wally West, stepping away from Ezra Miller’s portrayal. Pratt’s potential portrayal of Reverse-Flash could provide a thrilling, unpredictable foe whose presence would profoundly impact the DCU’s narrative landscape.
The Future Impact of Pratt’s Possible Roles in the DCU
Chris Pratt’s versatility as an actor opens numerous doors within the DC Universe beyond the expected. Whether channeling the resilience of Mister Miracle, the scientific curiosity of The Atom, the time-hopping antics of Booster Gold, the grit of Green Arrow, or the menace of Reverse-Flash, Pratt’s involvement could reshape fan expectations and invigorate the DCU’s cinematic and television offerings.
These roles not only highlight Pratt’s range but also carry significant potential for the expansion and diversification of the DCU’s character roster. As DC Studios continues to develop new projects, fans eagerly anticipate which part Pratt might ultimately claim, knowing his involvement would bring considerable excitement and depth to the franchise.
