Friday, December 26, 2025

James Gunn Talks Batman Casting for The Brave and The Bold

Fans eagerly await the announcement of the actor who will portray Batman in the upcoming DC Universe film, The Brave and The Bold, which will follow Bruce Wayne as he mentors his son Damien to become the new Robin. Despite introducing new characters like fresh Lanterns and a definitive Superman, the DCU has yet to reveal who will don the iconic cape and cowl. DC Studios co-head James Gunn has acknowledged that while no casting has been finalized, he has several actors in mind for the role.

James Gunn Shares Insights on Potential Batman Actors

In an interview with The Ringer-Verse, Gunn confirmed he has clear ideas about who could play Batman, explaining,

“Do I have ideas about actors who could play Batman? Absolutely, I do. I have guys I like. I have guys that are top of the list for me, just like I had people that were at the top of the list for Superman.”

Though he remains cautious about revealing specifics, Gunn indicated that he is following the buzz around popular fan picks.

Names Circulating Among Fans and Gunn’s Comments

One frequently mentioned candidate is Alan Ritchson, known for his outspoken desire to play Batman and rumored to be involved in an upcoming DC project. Gunn appeared to address these rumors by noting,

“One actor in particular, a pretty big star, wants to be Batman. We’ve talked about it, but I don’t think that’s the case.”

While Gunn did not confirm if Ritchson was the actor in question, he conveyed an openness to considering such stars thoughtfully.

Another name that has gained attention from fans is Brandon Sklenar, an actor from the TV series 1923. Fans connected Sklenar to the Batman role after Gunn mentioned watching the Yellowstone spinoff, which he acknowledged during the interview, saying,

James Gunn
Image of: James Gunn

“Okay, I see what you’re doing. 1923, it’s a really good TV show, like I can’t believe how good that show was.”

Project Progress and What to Expect Moving Forward

Gunn emphasized that The Brave and The Bold is still in early development, remarking that the script is not yet complete, stating,

“I mean, we’ve got somebody writing a script, I think it’s really good.”

Because of this, actual casting decisions will likely remain under wraps until the screenplay and overall vision solidify. This careful development process ensures that decisions will align closely with the story’s needs and creative direction.

Current Batman Timeline and Anticipation for New Casting

Although fans await new casting news, Batman’s presence in the DC Universe continues under Matt Reeves’s direction with The Batman Part II, scheduled for release on October 1, 2027. This upcoming film will further develop the character before The Brave and The Bold brings a fresh take focused on Bruce Wayne’s relationship with Damien. Meanwhile, viewers can look forward to numerous other DC projects that will expand the wider universe.