As the DC Universe (DCU) expands, one of the most pressing concerns among fans is the identity of its Batman. Unlike Matt Reeves’ Batman saga, which follows a separate storyline, the DCU is developing its own take on the Dark Knight. James Gunn, co-head of DC Studios, has acknowledged the complexity of this casting challenge but assures there is a plan underway. The upcoming film The Brave and the Bold will center on an older Bruce Wayne, and anticipation is building around which actor will embody Batman in this fresh chapter.
Progress and Insights on The Brave and the Bold’s Script and Casting
During a recent episode of the podcast The Ringer-Verse, James Gunn provided updates on the development of The Brave and the Bold. He revealed that the screenplay is still a work in progress and has not been finalized. Discussing the search for the right Batman, Gunn confirmed,
“Do I have ideas about actors to play Batman? Absolutely, I do,”
expressing his interest in several candidates. He compared this to how he once approached Superman’s casting with a shortlist of prospects but emphasized that no decisions have been made yet.
Gunn also noted that the casting process requires traditional steps like screen tests rather than simply selecting someone outright. He stated,
“It’s unlikely that I’m gonna hire someone … like Sylvester Stallone as Batman, we’re just hiring him, he’s not gonna audition … it’s unlikely that Batman’s gonna be one of those guys, but it is possible.”
This openness points to a thoughtful, careful search for a suitable actor. He mentioned one well-known star who has expressed interest in playing Batman, although Gunn was uncertain if this pursuit would come to fruition.
Exploring Unknown Talent Versus Established Stars for the DCU Batman
James Gunn’s remarks shed light on the evolving nature of casting for such a pivotal character. Though David Corenswet was an ideal fit for the role of Superman’s Kal-El, the casting process considered numerous other options before finalizing. Similarly, the hunt for Batman will be exhaustive and broad, potentially spotlighting a previously lesser-known actor if they prove the perfect match for the role.
Given that The Brave and the Bold will focus on an older, seasoned Batman, Gunn might lean toward casting a recognizable name. Historically, actors who have donned the cape and cowl—like Ben Affleck and Robert Pattinson—were already familiar to audiences when they took on this iconic character. Gunn once expressed openness to casting a star like Chris Pratt as Superman, regardless of prior fame, indicating that he values both name recognition and suitability.
However, selecting an emerging actor also has advantages. It could manage production budgets more efficiently by lowering salary costs. Moreover, fresh faces might allow the character to feel more genuine, as audiences would not associate them with previous roles or personal celebrity baggage. Gunn’s willingness to consider all options signals a flexible approach to casting, ensuring the best actor embodies Batman’s complexity. The mention of a “pretty big star” in talks to assume the role has reignited speculation about Alan Ritchson—star of Reacher—though Ritchson himself has cast doubt on taking the part.
Timeline and Expectations for Revealing the DCU’s Batman
Fans should temper expectations for an immediate announcement, as The Brave and the Bold remains several years away from release. James Gunn has made it clear that this film will not premiere in 2027, the same year as The Batman Part II by Matt Reeves. Instead, the earliest possible release is 2028, allowing ample opportunity for a comprehensive casting search and production process.
This delayed timeline provides Gunn and his team space to carefully weigh all potential candidates and conduct extensive auditions to identify the actor who best represents their vision of Batman. The DCU’s diverse offerings and ongoing projects only heighten the importance of getting this casting right, as Batman remains a cornerstone character expected to carry significant weight in the franchise.
With the intense scrutiny surrounding Batman’s casting, the decision will greatly influence the DCU’s tone and direction moving forward. Fans remain eager to see if Gunn will choose a familiar figure or elevate fresh talent into the role, both of which come with meaningful implications for storytelling and franchise dynamics.
“Do I have ideas about actors to play Batman? Absolutely, I do,” James Gunn, DC Studios Co-head
“I have guys I like. I have guys that are at the top of the list for me, just like I had people that were at the top of the list for Superman. But let me tell you something … they aren’t David Corenswet. They didn’t get the job … we’d have to screen test, we’d have to do the whole thing. It’s unlikely that I’m gonna hire someone … like Sylvester Stallone as Batman, we’re just hiring him, he’s not gonna audition … it’s unlikely that Batman’s gonna be one of those guys, but it is possible. I know one actor in particular who’s a pretty big star who wants to be Batman. We’ve talked about it, but I’m not sure that’s the case,” James Gunn, DC Studios Co-head
