The highly anticipated Scarlett Johansson Batman 2 role was almost given to another prominent actress before final casting decisions were made. DC Studios’ The Batman 2, directed by Matt Reeves and starring Robert Pattinson, will return to United States theaters in 2027, but early casting developments reveal an unexpected twist involving Emma Stone.
Emma Stone Passed on a Key Role in The Batman 2
Scarlett Johansson, renowned for playing Black Widow in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, was not the studio’s first choice for her mystery role in The Batman 2. According to Jeff Sneider from The InSneider, Emma Stone was initially approached for the part but declined the offer. While the public does not know the exact reason for Stone’s decision, industry speculation centers on financial disagreements.
Jeff Sneider reported,
“I know [Stone] wanted a big payday for Marvel’s Fantastic Four movie, and I imagine she’d want the same for The Batman Part II,”
– Jeff Sneider, The InSneider. He further explained,
“…As a two-time Oscar nominee, Johansson doesn’t exactly come cheap, but I’ve heard whispers that she may have taken a lower salary upfront for The Batman Part II in exchange for points on the backend, ultimately betting on the success of the sequel. It’s unclear whether Stone was willing to make a similar concession or if the role simply didn’t speak to her.”
– Jeff Sneider, The InSneider.
Emma Stone, who received Oscars for her roles in “La La Land” (2017) and “Poor Things” (2024), and Best Supporting Actress nominations for “Birdman” (2015) and “The Favourite” (2019), was perhaps expected to command a significant salary. This could have contributed to the discussions falling through between her and Warner Bros. Pictures.
Details Emerge About The Batman 2’s Cast and Production
Official plot information is still under wraps, but rumors suggest Johansson’s character could be a complicated love interest for Bruce Wayne. The sequel, co-written by Matt Reeves and Mattson Tomlin, will see the return of key actors: Jeffrey Wright as Jim Gordon, Andy Serkis as Alfred Pennyworth, and Colin Farrell as the Penguin. However, Zoe Kravitz is not slated to reprise her role as Catwoman/Selina Kyle.
Filming on The Batman Part II is scheduled to start in the spring. While Johansson’s willingness to accept a performance-based deal underscores the high stakes attached to the film, Stone’s reasons for declining remain undisclosed, reflecting the complexity of top-tier casting negotiations in major franchises.
What Lies Ahead for The Batman Sequel and Its Cast
The Batman 2 will open in United States theaters on October 1, 2027. With Scarlett Johansson stepping into a pivotal, secretive role—after Emma Stone’s departure—the sequel promises both intrigue and high expectations. Fans will be watching closely to see how these casting choices influence the direction of Matt Reeves’ evolving Gotham saga. As production ramps up, the conversation around creative decisions and casting dynamics continues to spark industry and audience interest.
