Alan Ritchson is in discussions to join the DC Universe, attracting attention for roles that suit his intense and gritty style. Despite strong fan support for Ritchson as a Batman candidate during James Gunn’s DCU Chapter One reboot announcement, the actor appears to be pursuing more complex, morally ambiguous characters in upcoming DC projects.
Ritchson has suggested he is aiming for a character who is
“dirtier than your typical clean-cut protagonist,”
implying a shift from the traditional heroic archetype. He is currently in talks with DC Studios, exploring opportunities to embody roles that showcase a messier, more conflicted side. Several candidates for these roles align well with Ritchson’s unique blend of physicality and emotional depth.
Midnighter: A More Violent Counterpart to Batman
Midnighter ranks high among suggested characters fitting Ritchson’s vision. Often seen as a more brutal and aggressive Bruce Wayne, Midnighter is a perfect fusion of Ritchson’s past interest in Batman and his current preference for complex antiheroes. The character is expected to be part of the DC Universe through The Authority, a superhero team slated for a movie within Gunn’s slate.
Ritchson’s experience playing strong, dynamic roles lends itself well to Midnighter’s violent nature balanced by moments of emotional nuance, particularly his relationship with Apollo. This blend of toughness and depth could allow Ritchson to reveal a softer side beneath the character’s hard exterior.
Wildcat: The Mentor for a New Generation
Wildcat is among the most popular fan picks for Ritchson, especially since Batman is no longer in the running. Known as a seasoned hero with a gruff yet caring attitude, Wildcat suits Ritchson’s established persona. His role as Hawk in DC’s Titans series gives him a direct link to the franchise, making him a credible candidate for this veteran mentor.
At 42 years old, Ritchson’s age and demeanor would convincingly position him as a trainer to younger heroes like the Teen Titans and Damian Wayne, Batman’s son. Wildcat’s tough exterior contrasts with his genuine affection for those he guides, mirroring Ritchson’s strength in portraying the “gentle giant” archetype.
Deathstroke: Potential Leading Villain in the DCU
With Batman off the table, Ritchson could assume the role of a major antagonist, such as Deathstroke. Originally planned as the main villain in Ben Affleck’s Gotham film, Deathstroke remains a high-profile figure in DC lore. Ritchson’s physical presence and tactical intelligence align well with Slade Wilson, who is reportedly part of a planned movie teaming him up with Bane.
Deathstroke is expected to feature prominently in the DCU’s upcoming Teen Titans film, where he is the group’s greatest adversary. Ritchson’s strong action background and commanding screen presence could elevate Deathstroke into a leading villain status within the franchise.
The Multiverse’s Dark Knights: Owlman and the Crime Syndicate
James Gunn’s exploration of alternate dimensions in Peacemaker Season 2 hints at the future use of multiverse characters like Owlman. Alongside Ultraman and others, Owlman forms part of Earth-3’s Crime Syndicate, an evil mirror of the Justice League. Since Ultriman’s fate remains uncertain following the recent Superman film, characters from this alternate reality are viable for future storylines.
Ritchson’s capability to portray a darker, more flawed Batman variant makes Owlman a fitting choice. This role offers the chance to capture a “messier” hero who embodies the twisted reflection of traditional heroism.
Captain Atom: A Military Powerhouse with Nuclear Might
Captain Atom stands out as one of DC’s most formidable and powerful figures, able to unleash nuclear energy and challenge Superman himself. With David Corenswet’s Superman maintaining an undefeated three-year streak in the DCU, only extraordinary opponents like Captain Atom would credibly threaten him.
Ritchson’s military experience in Reacher enhances his suitability for this role, which centers on a character with an Air Force background. His commanding presence fits Captain Atom’s imposing nature, and his physicality would make the superhero’s strength believable, alongside the potential for complex moral challenges.
Mongul: The Ruthless Ruler of Warworld
The upcoming Man of Tomorrow film introduces a significant threat that could be Mongul, a powerful alien warlord. Ritchson’s physique and intensity are well-matched for Mongul, the sovereign of Warworld, known for his brutal gladiatorial arenas and ruthless conquests.
Mongul presents a formidable adversary who threatens Earth and the broader DCU. Ritchson’s commanding screen energy would serve well in crafting a villain who is both physically menacing and emotionally intimidating, elevating the stakes of any conflict.
Orion: The War-Torn Son of Darkseid
Orion’s story is marked by internal conflict and a violent temper, shaped by his unique upbringing as the son of the evil Darkseid but raised by the benevolent Highfather of New Genesis. This nurture versus nature struggle creates a layered character full of rage and complexity.
Taking on Orion would give Ritchson the opportunity to explore intense emotional battlegrounds. His acting range aligns with this character’s struggle to reconcile his inherited fury with his upbringing, making Orion one of the messiest and most compelling roles in the DCU.
Hawkman: A Fighter with a Fiery Temper
Hawkman’s connection to Hawkgirl, portrayed by Isabela Merced in the DCU, may complicate Ritchson’s casting, given their significant age difference. Nonetheless, Hawkman’s temper and fighting spirit suit Ritchson’s previous roles, especially considering his portrayal of Hawk in Titans.
This character’s aggressive approach to conflict echoes Ritchson’s ability to portray intense, confrontational heroes, suggesting a natural fit despite the potential challenges of linking to Hawkgirl’s storyline.
Bane: Muscle and Mind Combined
Bane offers an exciting avenue for Ritchson to engage with Batman’s world in the DCU without playing Bruce Wayne. As a towering physical presence with a sharp intellect, Bane requires an actor who can blend brute strength with strategic insight—traits Ritchson has displayed in Reacher.
Bane’s narratives often emphasize his calculated approach to battle, making him a complex foe rather than just a strongman. Ritchson’s skill in portraying characters who can both intimidate and outthink opponents positions him well for this multifaceted villain.
Azrael: The Dark Knight’s Troubled Successor
Azrael embodies chaos and darkness, gaining future prominence with the announcement of a four-part animated Batman: Knightfall project. Azrael’s tale involves stepping in after Bane breaks Batman’s back and becoming a tormented, violent replacement.
Ritchson could bring to life Azrael’s internal battles and hyper-violent style, leveraging his ability to capture characters with complicated pasts and intense fighting skills. This role represents a deeply “messy” figure in DC’s mythos—ideal for Ritchson’s talents.
All these characters align with James Gunn DCU roles that favor complexity, grit, and intensity, qualities that Ritchson embodies. As discussions with DC continue, fans expect an official announcement detailing his future in the franchise, which may redefine the landscape of the DC Universe through these darker, more troubled characters.
