Although Alan Ritchson is a leading favorite to become the new Batman in the rebooted DC Universe, DC Studios has yet to make an official casting decision. With James Gunn DCU Batman casting set to introduce a fresh face as the Dark Knight in The Brave and the Bold, several alternative actors stand out as promising candidates to take on the iconic role.
The reboot of the DCU marks an important chapter for Batman, one of the most recognizable superheroes in the world. The Brave and the Bold is among the first ten projects revealed for the DCU’s Chapter 1, titled Gods and Monsters. While Matt Reeves continues development on his sequel, The Batman: Part II, James Gunn and Peter Safran are crafting their own distinctive version of Batman, aiming to cast an actor who can carry forward the legacy left by past stars like Adam West, Michael Keaton, Christian Bale, and Ben Affleck.
John Krasinski as an Unexpected Action Hero
John Krasinski, widely known for his role as Jim Halpert on The Office, may seem an unconventional pick for Batman initially. Yet, his portrayal of Jack Ryan on Amazon Prime Video displayed his capacity for action roles that require a blend of physicality and emotional depth. Krasinski possesses the stature, recognition, and fan support that align well with Bruce Wayne’s complex character, balancing authority with vulnerability. Following a less acclaimed superhero part in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, Krasinski has the opportunity to redeem his superhero status through this new casting.
Tom Bateman Emphasizing Bruce Wayne’s Elegance and Intensity
British actor Tom Bateman has made his mark playing aristocratic roles such as Giuliano de’ Medici in Da Vinci’s Demons and Bouc in the recent adaptations of Murder on the Orient Express and Death on the Nile. Bateman offers the commanding presence, height, and intensity often associated with Batman, while also showcasing a nuanced vulnerability that the character demands. Casting Bateman could elevate his profile to new heights and add an element of sophistication to the DCU’s depiction of Bruce Wayne.
Bill Skarsgård’s Dark and Sophisticated Approach
Known for his chilling roles such as Pennywise in It and the vampire Nosferatu, Bill Skarsgård has established himself as a versatile actor capable of delivering formidable villainous performances. His suave portrayal of Marquis Vincent de Gramont in John Wick: Chapter 4 also reveals another side of his talent. Skarsgård’s ability to combine menace with charm makes him a compelling choice for a younger, grittier Batman who could provide a darker foil to David Corenswet’s lighter Superman in the DCU.
Richard Armitage Bringing Depth and Experience
With the possibility that James Gunn’s Batman will offer a younger interpretation alongside introducing the character’s son Damian Wayne, an older, seasoned actor might be well suited for the role. Richard Armitage, recognized for his work in The Hobbit trilogy and series like Berlin Station and Castlevania, fits this profile. Armitage’s theatrical background and nuanced acting could uncover new layers of the Dark Knight’s personality that audiences haven’t seen before, especially considering his brief yet intriguing Marvel role in Captain America: The First Avenger.
Luke Kleintank’s Fresh and Grounded Persona
Luke Kleintank, who gained notice for his role as Joe Blake in The Man in the High Castle, offers a balance of anonymity and credibility, which is ideal for a franchise looking to introduce new faces while maintaining appeal. His experience in espionage-themed dramas like Bones and FBI: International underscores his suitability for Batman’s secretive and strategic nature. At a perfect age for portraying a younger Batman, Kleintank has both the physical presence and acting range necessary for a challenging takedown of Gotham’s villains.
Oliver Jackson-Cohen’s Comic-Accurate Physique and Acting Skill
Standing at 6’3”, Oliver Jackson-Cohen possesses the height and build many fans associate with Batman. His performances in emotionally intense projects such as The Haunting of Hill House, The Invisible Man, and the 2013 Dracula series demonstrate his ability to portray emotional strength alongside vulnerability. Such qualities are crucial for delivering Bruce Wayne’s complex duality as both a determined crime fighter and a charismatic businessman, making Jackson-Cohen an appealing candidate for the DCU’s new Batman.
Jake Gyllenhaal’s Star Power and Moral Complexity
Jake Gyllenhaal is one of today’s most notable and versatile actors, capable of bringing substantial star power to Batman. His physical transformation for the remake of Road House and morally conflicted roles like those in Presumed Innocent highlight his suitability for the psychological complexity of Bruce Wayne. Having already appeared as Mysterio in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Gyllenhaal’s move to play Batman in the DCU would be an intriguing and exciting crossover for fans.
Henry Golding’s Suave and International Appeal
Henry Golding has proven his ability to embody the sophisticated, wealthy charm of Bruce Wayne with roles in films such as Crazy Rich Asians, The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare, and A Simple Favor. His physical capabilities demonstrated as Tuah in The Old Guard 2 further justify his potential as the Caped Crusader. As a British actor of Malaysian descent, Golding would bring fresh cultural diversity and a distinct interpretation to the role of Batman in the DCU.
Richard Madden Merging Brooding Intensity and Public Persona
Famous for his portrayal of Robb Stark in HBO’s Game of Thrones and his recent role as Ikaris in Marvel’s Eternals, Richard Madden embodies the brooding intensity essential for Batman. Madden combines considerable name recognition with experience in superhero storytelling, which could benefit The Brave and the Bold. He has proven both his physical capabilities and emotional range, making him a well-rounded candidate for the dual life of Gotham’s vigilante and businessman.
Jensen Ackles as a Fan’s Dream Come True
Among the actors considered, Jensen Ackles emerges as a top alternative if Alan Ritchson is not chosen. Renowned for his portrayal of Dean Winchester on Supernatural for over 15 years, Ackles also brings experience playing superheroes as the gruff Soldier Boy in The Boys. His previous roles include Jason Teague in Smallville and voice acting as both Robin (Jason Todd) and Bruce Wayne’s Batman in multiple animated DC projects. This unique combination of live-action and animated Batman experience makes Ackles an especially compelling choice for the DCU.
Jensen Ackles recently lent his voice to Batman in animated films such as Batman: The Long Halloween, Legion of Super-Heroes, Justice League: Warworld, and Justice League: Crisis on Infinite Earths through 2024. Given this extensive involvement, his transition from animation to live-action Batman could be seamless, making him a frontrunner already familiar with the character and the DC universe.
While Alan Ritchson, Jensen Ackles, or another actor may ultimately be cast as Batman, DC Studios has yet to officially announce its choice. This decision will be pivotal for shaping the tone and direction of the DCU and will likely generate significant excitement and discussion among fans and industry observers alike.
