James Gunn Confirms Plans for New Batman in DCU, Seeks Mid-30s Actor
The director of 'The Suicide Squad' is on the hunt for a new Dark Knight, with casting expected to take place soon.
James Gunn, the acclaimed director behind 'The Suicide Squad', has officially commented on his plans to cast a new Batman for the DC Universe (DCU), marking a significant step in the ongoing reshaping of the beloved superhero franchise. According to reports, Gunn is seeking a candidate who matches the approximate age of Superman, placing the ideal age range for the new Batman at around mid-30s.
Gunn's vision for the character diverges from the current iteration played by Robert Pattinson, as the latter's portrayal will continue to exist in a separate cinematic universe. This decision underscores Gunn's ambition to create a fresh and distinct identity for the iconic hero within his own DCU narrative.
In an interview with Variety, Gunn emphasized that while the new Batman doesn't have to be a household name, he must possess exceptional acting skills. This approach opens up the possibility for a wider pool of talent to be considered for the role, potentially leading to a more diverse and exciting casting choice.
The casting process is anticipated to commence shortly, with no final decision having been made as of yet. Meanwhile, the current incumbent of the Superman role, David Corenswet, is 33 years old, fitting perfectly into the age range Gunn envisions for his new Batman. This similarity in age could make for an intriguing dynamic between the two characters in future DCU films.
Interestingly, Alan Ritchson, known for his roles in 'Hanna' and 'The Mortal Instruments', had discussions with the studio regarding a potential part in the DCU, although it was not for the role of Batman. These talks highlight the studio's active engagement in shaping the future of their cinematic universe, even as they focus on finding the right fit for the Caped Crusader.
What we know
- - James Gunn is planning to cast a new Batman for the DC Universe. 123
- - Casting for the new Batman is expected to happen soon, though no decision has been made yet. 123
- - The new Batman will be around the same age as Superman, approximately in his mid-30s. 123
- - Gunn mentioned that the new Batman does not necessarily need to be a movie star, but should be a great actor. 1
- - Robert Pattinson's Batman will exist in a separate universe from Gunn's DCU. 3
- - David Corenswet, who plays Superman, is 33 years old. 1
- - Alan Ritchson had conversations with the studio about a non-Batman role. 3
Verification report
Likely accurate — probability of truth 82%, weighted across 7 claims from 3 independent outlets.
- confirmed James Gunn is planning to cast a new Batman for the DC Universe. (92%)
- confirmed Casting for the new Batman is expected to happen soon, though no decision has been made yet. (92%)
- confirmed The new Batman will be around the same age as Superman, approximately in his mid-30s. (92%)
- likely Gunn mentioned that the new Batman does not necessarily need to be a movie star, but should be a great actor. (71%)
- likely Robert Pattinson's Batman will exist in a separate universe from Gunn's DCU. (68%)
- likely David Corenswet, who plays Superman, is 33 years old. (71%)
- likely Alan Ritchson had conversations with the studio about a non-Batman role. (68%)
Sources
- Variety — Batman Casting in DC Universe ‘Isn’t Far Away,’ Says James Gunn: A ‘Movie Star’ Isn’t Mandatory but He’ll Be ‘Around the Same Age’ as Superman
https://variety.com/2026/film/news/batman-casting-dc-superman-age-james-gunn-1236934350/ - Polygon — James Gunn Officially Comments on Casting the DCU's New Batman
https://www.polygon.com/batman-dcu-casting-james-gunn-comment/ - IGN — James Gunn Says It 'Won't Be Too Long' Before DCU Batman Is Cast, Will Be Close in Age to David Corenswet's Superman
https://www.ign.com/articles/james-gunn-says-it-wont-be-too-long-before-dcu-batman-is-cast-will-be-close-in-age-to-david-corenswets-superman