Alan Ritchson has confirmed ongoing discussions with James Gunn regarding a significant role within the DC Universe (DCU) but clarified that Batman is not part of the plans. As James Gunn reboots the DCU, Ritchson‘s involvement hints at promising opportunities for the actor to join this expanding superhero world with characters better suited to his talents.
Alan Ritchson Addresses DCU Casting Speculations
The actor known for his role in Reacher has acknowledged that James Gunn is a fan of his work and that conversations about his place in the new DCU have been underway. While Batman has been a popular suggestion, Ritchson made clear that this iconic character is off the table. Speaking to Variety, he said,
“Well, it’s not a rumor that James Gunn is a fan. He said it himself. And am I a fan of James Gunn? Absolutely. I don’t want to mislead people. Words have been exchanged about Batman. But I strongly don’t think that Batman is in my future. I do think there is something in my future with DC. And I would like that to remain true.”
—Alan Ritchson, Actor
Despite the exclusion of Batman, Ritchson’s combination of physical presence, charisma, and versatility makes him an excellent candidate for several other major roles within the DC Universe. Fans and industry insiders alike have begun speculating about which characters would best fit his profile.
Potential DCU Characters Suited for Alan Ritchson
Below are five major DC characters who align well with Alan Ritchson’s strengths and could become his signature superhero roles in the forthcoming DCU projects.
1. Aquaman: The Commanding King of Atlantis
Jason Momoa‘s future as Aquaman in the new DCU reboot remains unclear, opening the door for a new actor to take over the role of Arthur Curry. Standing 6’3″ with an impressive physique, Alan Ritchson brings the size and authority needed for the King of Atlantis. His ability to deliver intense performances infused with occasional humor has resonated well with audiences, much like his portrayal of Jack Reacher.
Fan efforts online have showcased enthusiasm for Ritchson as Aquaman, highlighting his potential to handle underwater action and mythological storytelling convincingly. While Charles Melton and Patrick Wilson have been mentioned by some, Ritchson’s physicality and proven screen presence have generated unparalleled support.
2. Captain Atom: The Quantum-Powered Hero
Captain Atom, aka Nathaniel Adam, is one of DC’s more underused but powerful heroes, boasting abilities nearly on par with Superman, paired with a military background. This role suits Ritchson’s strengths, especially given his commanding performances and action-oriented roles in the past. His physique and demeanor would align well with a character who is an Air Force pilot transformed into a quantum-powered being.
The complexity of Captain Atom’s moral struggles and internal battles with overwhelming power would require an actor capable of expressing both strength and vulnerability. Ritchson’s history of projecting tough but conflicted characters positions him well for this duality. Although fan-casts have suggested Joel Kinnaman and Jake McLaughlin, Ritchson’s energetic action scenes make a compelling case.
3. Shazam: The Adult Hero with a Child’s Heart
Shazam demands an actor who can combine a broad physical build with the spirit and innocence of a teenager. Alan Ritchson’s versatility, having navigated between comedic roles in Blue Mountain State, superhero action in Titans, and gritty drama in Reacher, shows his ability to embody this unique blend. He has a commanding frame and charisma, allowing audiences to believe in the magical transformation central to Shazam’s story.
The role also requires a balance of humor and sincerity without tipping into caricature. Ritchson’s natural charm and quick wit suit this well, possibly bringing a new dimension to the character if James Gunn chooses to present a more mature or grounded Billy Batson. Prior portrayals by Zachary Levi and fan suggestions including John Cena and Channing Tatum set high expectations, but Ritchson offers a fresh take on this beloved character.
4. Hawkman: The Reincarnated Warrior
Hawkman, or Carter Hall, is a complex superhero with a deep historical and mythological background. As the reincarnation of an ancient Egyptian prince named Khufu, this role carries the weight of centuries of conflict and leadership. It requires an actor who can portray both physical dominance and emotional depth, traits that Alan Ritchson has exhibited throughout his career.
The character’s struggle with violence and morality—simultaneously embracing and questioning the necessity of battle—echoes themes Ritchson has explored in previous roles. While Dwayne Johnson was previously linked to Hawkman before taking on Black Adam, other fan-favorite actors like Gerard Butler and Aldis Hodge have been mentioned. Ritchson stands as a strong contender for this multifaceted character.
5. Orion: The Tormented New God
Orion, the son of the tyrannical Darkseid, wrestles with his violent heritage while striving to live as a hero. This character is one of the most psychologically layered in the DC Universe, with cosmic-level stakes and immense power. Playing Orion requires not only considerable physicality but also the ability to convey complex emotional conflict.
Alan Ritchson’s strength and emotional range could bring Orion’s tension between darkness and heroism convincingly to the screen. Though Orion is less well-known than legends like Superman or Batman, fans have long debated who could effectively portray this challenging figure. Other names floated in fan discussions include Sam Heughan and Will Poulter, but Ritchson’s abilities place him near the top of the list.
Alan Ritchson’s Future with the DC Universe
Ritchson’s confirmation of an upcoming DCU role suggests significant negotiations are ongoing. His track record, including portrayals of Aquaman in Smallville and Hawk in Titans, establishes his strong ties to DC’s superhero oeuvre and highlights his proven capacity to carry major characters.
Whether he embodies the King of Atlantis, a powerful quantum soldier, the youthful Shazam, the ancient Hawkman, or the cosmic New God Orion, Alan Ritchson’s casting would signal a promising new chapter for the DCU under James Gunn’s direction. With Batman no longer part of these talks, the possibilities for Ritchson to rise as a leading superhero are both broad and exciting.
Fans are eagerly awaiting official announcements to see which iconic role will become Ritchson’s next defining character in the evolving DC cinematic world.
