Alan Ritchson recently discussed his prospects of portraying Batman in James Gunn‘s DC Universe (DCU), opening possibilities for him to tackle other notable characters instead. With the reboot of Batman planned through the upcoming film The Brave and the Bold, various actors, including Ritchson, have become fan favorites for DC’s new Batman role.
Following his acclaimed performance in Prime Video’s Reacher, Ritchson gained significant attention as a potential candidate for the DCU’s Batman, alongside other popular choices such as Jensen Ackles, Glen Powell, and Brandon Sklenar. Although he has expressed interest in playing Bruce Wayne in interviews, current conversations with James Gunn suggest that Ritchson might instead take on a different DCU character in the near future.
Ritchson himself shared,
“I do think there is something in my future with DC.”
—Alan Ritchson, actor
Wildcat: A Seasoned Hero for DCU‘s Expanding Roster
Wildcat is confirmed to exist in Gunn’s new DC Universe, having been subtly introduced through an Easter egg in the recent Superman movie—a mural in the Hall of Justice features the character. Given Ritchson’s previous experience playing Hawk on Titans, a seasoned and no-nonsense hero like Wildcat aligns well with his acting strengths and physical presence.
Both Hawk and Wildcat share traits of being veteran fighters with a tough demeanor, making Wildcat a role that fits Ritchson’s established skill set naturally. His size, intensity, and familiarity with DC material would lend credibility to portraying this grizzled character who represents an older generation of heroes within the shared universe.
Aquaman: A Potential New Take on the Atlantean King
While Jason Momoa remains part of the DCU, he will no longer portray Aquaman, instead taking on the role of Lobo starting with Supergirl (2026). This departure frees Aquaman to be recast, and Ritchson is a strong candidate for this iconic role. He previously played a young Aquaman in the Smallville TV series and therefore possesses experience depicting the hero’s early form.
Ritchson fits the ideal middle ground between the comic-accurate Aquaman and Momoa’s more rebellious portrayal, potentially serving as the bridge in the transition from the DCEU’s interpretation to a fresh DCU version. His physicality and ability to embody Atlantis’ ruler make him a logical and compelling option for this part.
Midnighter: A Dark and Complex Ally to the Dark Knight
Since Ritchson is unlikely to headline as Batman, he could instead portray Midnighter, a character often described as a darker, more violent counterpart to Batman. Midnighter, alongside his partner Apollo, is expected to appear in The Authority film, a project that has seen stalled development but could gain momentum with Gunn’s renewed focus.
This role allows Ritchson to explore a nuanced character who balances a brutal fighting style with tender emotions, especially his profound love for Apollo. The depth within Midnighter’s personality offers Ritchson chances to showcase both sarcasm and vulnerability, diversifying his performances in the DCU.
Shazam: Channeling Youthful Energy with a Comedic Edge
Considering Shazam’s uncertain future following the underperformance of its second solo movie, the likelihood that Zachary Levi returns as the character is slim. Ritchson, known mostly for his stoic role as Jack Reacher, also has a strong background in comedy from projects like Blue Mountain State and The Wedding Ringer, making him a good fit for Shazam.
Shazam’s character is a child, Billy Batson, who transforms into an adult superhero, a duality that Ritchson could convincingly capture given his comedy chops and ability to portray youthful enthusiasm combined with superhero action. This would allow him to deliver a fresh, engaging take on the character infused with both charm and humor.
Captain Atom: A Powerful Military Hero With a Ties to Reacher
Among fan suggestions, many advocate Ritchson for the role of Captain Atom, a hero distinguished by his U.S. Air Force background and considerable powers, rivaling even Superman’s strength. Ritchson’s Reacher character aligns with this military-honed persona, suggesting a seamless translation to Captain Atom’s disciplined but formidable presence.
Visually and thematically, Captain Atom suits Ritchson well, providing a role that demands imposing physicality and the ability to thrive in narratives involving power struggles and patriotism. The character’s capacity to challenge Superman in the DC Universe places him as a central figure for future stories, potentially elevating Ritchson’s status in DCU.
Deathstroke: A Formidable Foe With Complex Morality
If Ritchson is not cast as Batman, Deathstroke offers a tantalizing alternative as Batman’s adversary. Deathstroke has faced Batman numerous times in comics and adaptations, with DC reportedly planning a movie featuring a team-up of Deathstroke and Bane. This positions the character as a significant villain within the DCU.
Deathstroke combines lethal skill and a twisted code of honor, qualities that Ritchson could convincingly portray, especially given his physicality and experience in authoritative roles. The character’s narrative also provides space for transformation, from villain to possible anti-hero, giving Ritchson a layered and dynamic role to explore.
Orion: Exploring Inner Conflict Among New Gods‘ Legacy
Tom King, a major contributor to James Gunn’s DCU projects, including the Mister Miracle animated series, plays a pivotal role in integrating New Gods characters like Darkseid into the universe. Within this context, Orion, Darkseid’s biological son, could make his live-action debut.
Orion’s story revolves around inner turmoil between his heritage and upbringing by the Highfather, reflecting the classic nature versus nurture struggle. Ritchson’s portrayal of Hawk in Titans exhibited a similar depth that balances toughness with complexity, making him a fitting actor to embody Orion’s multifaceted character.
Booster Gold: Combining Humor with a Touch of Tragedy
Booster Gold is another role where Ritchson’s comedic ability could shine. Although Glen Powell is a favored casting choice, Ritchson has the timing and charm to make Booster Gold both entertaining and emotionally substantial. The character is defined by humor that masks a deeper, tragic past, a balance that Ritchson’s past roles suggest he could handle adeptly.
His background as a former athlete and comedic performer aligns well with Booster Gold’s history as a former football player turned hero, allowing Ritchson to bring both energy and sincerity to this underdog character.
Catman: Adding Depth to a Lesser-Known but Complex Character
Although Catman is less familiar to general DC fans, James Gunn’s successful work with underrated characters—such as elevating Peacemaker—shows the potential of building interest around Catman. This role could feature in a Secret Six project, broadening the DCU’s scope.
The modern Catman embodies a dark Batman-inspired aesthetic combined with a personal code and willingness to be ruthless when necessary. These facets make Catman a multifaceted role that would allow Ritchson to explore themes similar to Batman’s but from a fresh angle, including reinvention due to changing circumstances.
Hawkman: A Mission-Driven Warrior with Emotional Depth
Finally, Hawkman presents a role that fits Ritchson’s physical and acting capabilities exceptionally. Known for his intensity, love of combat, and sometimes short temper, Hawkman also has a compassionate side, particularly in his bond with Hawkgirl. The chemistry between Ritchson’s Hawk and Isabela Merced’s Hawkgirl, featured prominently in Gunn’s Superman film, could evolve meaningfully within the DCU.
While some concerns exist around the 18-year age difference between Ritchson and Merced, Hawkman’s numerous resurrections and complex origin stories could be used narratively to bridge that gap. This would allow the character to be interpreted with nuance and authenticity.
Alan Ritchson’s potential roles beyond Batman highlight the versatility and depth he could bring to the DCU, spanning heroes, anti-heroes, and villains alike. As the DC Universe continues to grow under James Gunn and collaborators like Tom King, audiences can anticipate dynamic casting choices that both honor legacy characters and introduce fresh interpretations. Ritchson’s involvement in any of these roles would strengthen the evolving universe and maintain fan interest while offering him new challenges and career milestones.
