THE NEW BATMAN

There has been much speculation about Robert Pattinson's Batman becoming the DCU Batman. James Gunn has been evasive, but recent evidence suggests a completely different Batman for the DCU, with distinct Gotham City branding already appearing in the Clayface movie.

Alan Ritchson is frequently mentioned as a potential new Batman, having expressed his desire to play the role. James Gunn is a known fan of Ritchson, who has even met with Gunn about playing Batman, though Ritchson believes the role isn't in his immediate future for DC, suggesting a different DC project instead. His portrayal of Reacher has drawn comparisons to Batman.

James Gunn has discussed future plans for Batman, including the "Superman Batman World's Finest" crossover which will occur after "Batman: Brave and the Bold." The current strategy involves subtle Batman cameos and references until the new actor is officially introduced in "Brave and the Bold." The script for "Brave and the Bold" is still being developed, and an actor announcement is not expected until closer to its release, possibly after "The Batman Part II" in 2027.

Several major references to the DCU Batman have appeared: a road sign to Gotham City in the Superman movie, a mention of moving to Gotham in Peacemaker Season 2, news reports of Arkham Asylum escapes, and a Batman comic character, Sasha Bordeaux, introduced in Peacemaker. There were also allusions to Bruce Wayne in the Superman movie.

Batman made two cameo appearances in Creature Commandos, set in different time periods. One showed a "chonky" Batman encountering Dr. Phosphorus at the Ice Lounge, fueling Alan Ritchson theories. The other was in Cersei's future vision, depicting various DC superheroes including Batman, demonstrating his planned involvement in the future Justice League.

Despite speculation about Brandon Sklenar, James Gunn is open to many actors for Batman, and the casting process will be extensive, similar to how David Corenswet was chosen for Superman. More Batman references are anticipated in upcoming Peacemaker Season 2 episodes.