Popular Batman Fancast Actor Teases the DCU Role He Wants to Play

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Now that Robert Pattinson won’t be continuing as Batman in the main DC Universe – his films will exist separately as ‘Elseworlds’ stories – fans have been actively suggesting who should play the Dark Knight next. A leading contender is Alan Ritchson, known for his role in Reacher, as he has the physique and commanding presence the part requires. The buzz increased when James Gunn, co-head of DC Studios, publicly stated he’s a fan of Ritchson, and the actor hinted at discussions with Gunn. While fans wait to see if he’ll take on the role, Ritchson has shared what kind of character he’d like to play within the DC Universe.

In an interview with Screen Rant, Alan Ritchson discussed his conversations with DC about potential roles. He explained he’s not interested in playing a traditional hero, but rather a more complex and flawed character. He told DC he envisions a personality that would add a different dynamic to their universe, and believes audiences are ready for that kind of portrayal. Ritchson is looking to play someone with more depth and imperfections than the typical ‘clean-cut’ protagonist.

Could Alan Ritchson Play the DCU’s Batman?

James Gunn recently described Batman as intensely driven and even a bit unhinged, highlighting the contrast with Superman. This suggests actor Joe Ritchson, who has expressed interest in playing a morally complex character, could be a good fit for the role. While details about Batman’s future in the DC Universe are still secret, Gunn has stated it won’t be a lighthearted or campy portrayal. This opens the possibility of a darker, more morally ambiguous Batman who might use questionable tactics to protect Gotham. If Gunn envisions an older, more seasoned hero, the character could be portrayed as weary and disillusioned.

While the new Batman could be portrayed with flaws, he remains fundamentally a hero. The established rule that he won’t kill is currently part of the official DC Universe storyline, and it seems likely that will continue. Though this version of Batman will be intimidating and focus on frightening criminals in Gotham, there’s probably a limit to how far the filmmakers will go in changing his core principles. He might not be perfect, but he likely won’t be as ruthless as the actor envisioned.

Despite initial interest, Alan Ritchson seems hesitant about playing Batman. While he’s still open to joining the DC Universe, he’s stated he doesn’t believe he’ll be taking on the role. The reason isn’t clear, but it could be that discussions with DC Studios revealed a vision for Batman that didn’t feel right for him. Another possibility is that Ritchson wants to be involved in a DC project sooner, as the first Batman movie under James Gunn’s leadership isn’t expected until 2028 at the earliest. Gunn intends to space out DC films, so The Brave and the Bold won’t be released in the same year as The Batman Part II (scheduled for October 2027), and may even be delayed further to fit between installments of Matt Reeves’ Batman series.

Director Andy Muschietti, who is working on The Brave and the Bold, has hinted that some announcements are coming soon. While Joe Manganiello recently expressed doubt about his involvement, fans are still hoping he’ll be cast in a leading role. However, even if that doesn’t work out, the DC universe has plenty of complex characters – both heroes and villains – that would be a good fit for Manganiello and allow him to play a more morally ambiguous role.

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2025-11-07 23:12