James Gunn has given a new update on the hunt for the next Batman in the DC Universe. The filmmaker, who is leading DC Studios along with Peter Safran, confirmed that the search is still open, but he already has some names in mind. During an interview on The Ringer-Verse podcast, Gunn explained that while fans may be guessing, the decision is not final yet.
Do I have ideas about actors to play Batman? Absolutely, I do. I have guys I like. I have guys that are at the top of the list, 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, right? They didn’t get the job. People can guess, and maybe they’ll be right about certain things. I don’t know. I don’t know what you’re talking about specifically.
[It’s] totally up in the air. We’d have to screen test, we’d have to do the whole thing. It’s unlikely that I’m going to hire someone that’s [like] Sylvester Stallone as Batman [where] we’re just hiring him. It’s unlikely that Batman’s going to be one of those guys. But it’s possible! I know one actor in particular who’s a pretty big star that wants to be Batman. We’ve talked about it, but I’m not sure that’s the case.
He revealed that there’s even one big Hollywood star who has shown interest in playing Batman, and that they’ve already had conversations about it. Still, James Gunn stressed that the role will not be given without proper auditions and screen tests, even if the actor is well-known. So far, the speculations are heavy about who will wear the cape and cowl next.
Brandon Sklenar and Alan Ritchson Are Rumored as Potential Dark Knight Choices
So far, two names have been linked with Batman in James Gunn’s DCU: Brandon Sklenar and Alan Ritchson. Although neither of them has been confirmed, both seem to be strong contenders in the fan conversation. James Gunn has admitted that casting is still open, but these rumors keep growing stronger.
Alan Ritchson, who plays the lead role in Reacher, recently revealed via Variety that he had spoken with James Gunn about the Batman role. This has made many believe he could be the “big star” Gunn mentioned in his interview. Even his tall build and action-star presence make him an easy fit for the character.
It’s not rumor that James Gunn is a fan. He said it himself. And am I a fan of James Gunn? Absolutely. I don’t want to mislead people. Words have been exchanged about Batman. I do think there is something in my future with DC. And I would like that to remain true.
But he isn’t the only one chasing the role; even Brandon Sklenar has been mentioned in reports. His performance as Spencer Dutton in 1923 showed off traits that line up with Bruce Wayne’s personality: dark, brooding, and serious. Fans believe he has the right mix of age, acting skills, and screen presence to take on Batman for the long run.
But so far, James Gunn has refused to reveal any names or even drop solid hints on who might be the next Caped Crusader.
James Gunn Says The Brave and the Bold Script Is Promising but Still Unfinished
Meanwhile, along with updates on casting, James Gunn also shared news about the Batman movie script. Considering how The Brave and the Bold was announced in 2023, and yet the story is still being written, Gunn confirmed during the podcast that he is happy with the script so far. Although the screenplay is not finished yet, it looks promising.
He explained that someone is working on the script, and so far, it looks very good. However, Gunn also made it clear that there is still a significant amount of work left to do before it is ready. This shows that the highly anticipated movie is moving forward step by step, without rushing into production.
The script isn’t done, I mean, we’ve got somebody writing a script, I think it’s really good. But it isn’t finished yet.
So far, fans are excited because this movie will introduce a brand-new Batman into the DC Universe. It will also bring in Damian Wayne, Batman’s son, for the first time on the big screen. Even if the script isn’t done, James Gunn’s positive words give fans hope that the project is on the right track.
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