Work on the DC Universe (DCU) project continues despite delays with The Brave and the Bold. The plan remains to focus on Batman as he trains his son, raised by Talia al Ghul and the League of Assassins, to become the new Robin. This indicates that several iterations of Robin, including Dick Grayson, Jason Todd, and Tim Drake, have already existed off-screen.
This approach allows DC Studios to quickly bring Dick Grayson’s Nightwing to the forefront. Given the urgency surrounding casting and the character’s age, here are six actors who could excel as Nightwing in upcoming DCU films or a solo venture.
Walker Scobell: A Young Hero Starting His Own Path
After standout roles in Secret Headquarters and The Adam Project, Walker Scobell has proved himself as a rising actor with leading man potential, particularly through his role in Disney+’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians. While Scobell might seem more suited to a younger Robin, he has the qualities needed to portray a Dick Grayson who’s just stepping out from Batman’s shadow. His skill with action scenes suggests he could adeptly handle Nightwing’s signature Escrima sticks, transitioning smoothly from Percy Jackson’s swordplay.
Louis Partridge: Portraying a Complex Nightwing
Known for his recurring role in Netflix’s Enola Holmes and appearances in Disclaimer and House of Guinness, Louis Partridge carries a mature presence ideal for a Nightwing who’s gained several years of experience. Dick Grayson is a layered character, initially grappling with conflicted feelings toward Batman after breaking away from the Robin mantle. Partridge’s talent offers the potential to bring depth to that tension in a credible performance. Moreover, Dick Grayson is envisioned by Bruce Wayne as a successor, adding emotional weight to the role.
Kit Connor: The Everyman Vigilante for Blüdhaven
Kit Connor, often discussed by fans as a candidate for a superhero role, notably alongside Heartstopper co-star Joe Locke, is well-positioned to take on Nightwing. His performance in Warfare demonstrated he can command the screen, and his portrayal would fit the narrative of Dick Grayson as a previously ordinary boy before becoming Bruce Wayne’s ward. The depiction of Dick’s origins, as seen in Mark Waid and Chris Samnee’s Batman & Robin: Year One, aligns well with Connor’s everyman appeal. He also convincingly matches the idea of Nightwing as the protector of the gritty Blüdhaven.
Liam Woodrum: A Fresh Face Ready to Grow
Liam Woodrum may not be a household name, but that might work in his favor. DC Studios has often cast lesser-known actors in key roles, as demonstrated by David Corenswet’s recent portrayal of Superman. Woodrum’s performances in Geek Girl, Based on a True Story, and 213 Bones exhibit promising range. The Nightwing role would challenge him to embody Dick Grayson’s evolution from a sidekick to a confident crime-fighter who isn’t afraid to confront his former mentor. His look fits the character, and he offers potential to mature into this complex role.
Mason Thames: Bringing Humor and Energy to Nightwing
Mason Thames has gained attention for his role in How to Train Your Dragon and has demonstrated strong franchise-carrying abilities. Although the similarities between Hiccup and Nightwing are limited to shared plucky spirit, this attitude might serve Thames well as he portrays Dick Grayson stepping away from Batman’s moody world. Gotham’s often dark tone contrasts with the lighter spirit Dick brings as Robin and later Nightwing. Thames offers the combination of humor and intense action necessary to capture this essential balance in the character’s portrayal.
Asher Angel: A Versatile Actor Ready for a Major Role
Asher Angel won acclaim in Shazam! and was widely seen by fans as a better fit for that role than Zachary Levi. While casting him as Shazam in the DCU would be exciting, Angel is equally compelling as Nightwing. His performances in Darby and the Dead and Lazareth showcase his range, and he has many qualities suited to giving Dick Grayson a strong, authentic presence on screen. With a lead role long overdue, Angel could bring the depth and charisma Nightwing demands, whether in The Brave and the Bold or a dedicated spin-off.
The casting decisions for James Gunn Nightwing will significantly influence the DCU’s direction, as the character’s transition marks a pivotal shift from Batman’s legacy to a new generation of heroes. These six actors each bring unique strengths and qualities, fitting different interpretations of Dick Grayson as he breaks away from his mentor’s shadow and asserts his own identity. The urgency around finding the right talent underscores the importance of Nightwing’s role in the evolving DC cinematic landscape.
