James Gunn, James Gunn Batman casting [Image Source: COMICBOOK]
Jensen Ackles, well known for playing Soldier Boy in The Boys, is generating excitement among fans around the potential James Gunn Batman casting for the new DC Universe reboot. After artist Captain Raccoon shared a striking image of Ackles as Batman, online speculation about Ackles taking on the Dark Knight role has only intensified, with many urging director James Gunn to consider him.
The buzz around Ackles started when Captain Raccoon posted an Instagram illustration featuring Ackles as Bruce Wayne donning his iconic crime-fighting suit. The artwork merges elements from Ben Affleck’s Batman suit and the New 52 look, with the Bat-Signal shining over a rainy cityscape—though some wondered about Bruce getting dressed outside of the Batcave, perhaps with Alfred occupied elsewhere. The post prompted an outpouring of support, with numerous fans calling for Ackles to be cast. In the comments, one supporter wrote,
“We need this. And Jensen would kill in the role.”
– User, Instagram. Many even tagged James Gunn directly, hoping to catch his attention amid ongoing excitement about the future of DC films since the Peter Safran and James Gunn relaunch was announced.
Jensen Ackles Shares His Thoughts on Playing Batman
The enthusiasm within the Ackles Army for Jensen as Batman is clear, but the key question remains whether Ackles himself is interested. Speaking to Collider in June 2025, Ackles expressed eagerness while acknowledging the stakes:
Image of: James Gunn
“You talk about not wanting to fumble the football — that’s one that I would be nervous as hell to carry,”
– Jensen Ackles, Actor. He added,
“But also proud. A certain feather in the cap. Anybody who gets to wear the cowl, they got something.”
– Jensen Ackles, Actor.
This openness isn’t new for Ackles. During San Diego Comic-Con in 2013, he addressed the possibility while proudly wearing a Batman shirt and answered E! News about taking on the role:
“Any guy in his right mind would die to play Batman,”
– Jensen Ackles, Actor. He continued,
“It would be a dream come true.”
– Jensen Ackles, Actor. Ackles’ readiness and the consistent fan support enhance the possibility that, if approached, he would welcome the chance to join the DC Universe as Batman.
Voice Work as Batman Strengthens Ackles’ Suitability
Ackles holds an advantage among the candidates for live-action Batman thanks to his experience voicing the character in acclaimed DC animations. The Dallas native brought the Caped Crusader to life in Batman: The Long Halloween, a standout adaptation of a renowned comic, as well as in Legion of Super-Heroes, Justice League Warworld, and Justice League: Crisis on Infinite Earths—some of the most praised animated films of 2024. The latter trilogy showcased Ackles’ continued growth with the character.
Critics have highlighted his strong performance. IGN’s review found Ackles’ Batman to be both intimidating and youthful:
“scary while still having a youthful aura about him.”
– IGN, Review. Beyond his voice work, Ackles even dressed as Batman for Halloween in 2019, sharing professional photos on his social media and reinforcing his enthusiasm for the role.
This passion, combined with his substantial experience as Batman in animation, signals a deep commitment that fans and commentators like IGN note as a major credential for taking on the live-action role. Ackles’ background sets him apart as DC and James Gunn continue to search for the next cinematic Dark Knight.
What Ackles’ Candidacy Means for the DC Universe
Jensen Ackles is a leading fan choice for the role as the DC Universe prepares for a new chapter under James Gunn. His blend of previous Batman performances, open interest, and significant fan backing places Ackles front and center in conversations about who should wear the cape and cowl next. While decisions from Warner Bros. and Gunn are still pending, the steady interest and momentum behind Ackles show him as a credible contender if Gunn pursues a familiar-but-fresh face for Batman. The continued speculation keeps the fandom energized and attentive to every development in the casting search. For now, the excitement around James Gunn Batman casting seems far from over, and Ackles remains firmly part of the conversation as eagerly as ever.
