Robert Pattinson Out as DCU Batman

James Gunn and Peter Safran have officially confirmed that The Brave and the Bold will introduce a new Batman into the DC Universe (DCU), explicitly ruling out actor Robert Pattinson from this role. During a DC Studios presentation covered by IGN, co-chiefs Safran and Gunn clarified that Pattinson will only portray Batman within director Matt Reeves' The Batman Epic Crime Saga.

Gunn emphasized, “It's certainly not the plan,” regarding Pattinson crossing over into the DCU. Safran added, “And we love him, but we've got to introduce a Batman into the DCU. That's imperative. And so that's the plan with The Brave and the Bold.”

Speculation about Pattinson potentially playing Batman across the entire DCU was fueled earlier this year when Reeves hinted at the possibility. Reeves told reporter Josh Horowitz at the Golden Globes, “It really comes down to whether or not it makes sense. What’s been great is there was a story that I wanted to tell with what we’re calling The Epic Crime Saga and all that, which is the thrust of what we want to do. And it’s been important to me to be able to play that out. And James and Peter have been really, really great about that and they’re letting us do that. What the future brings? I can’t really tell you. I have no idea right now except that my head is down now about getting The Batman Part 2 shooting and to make it something really, really special which, of course, is the most important thing.”

Safran expressed enthusiasm for Reeves' vision for The Batman Part 2, stating, “We love Matt’s vision for The Batman Part 2, and we're looking forward to this film as much as you are.” Although Reeves has yet to submit a script, Safran noted that what they have seen so far is “very encouraging.”

Meanwhile, The Brave and the Bold is in “very active development,” with the story “coming together very nicely.” Regarding director Andy Muschietti, who helmed The Flash, Gunn and Safran are currently developing the script and will present it to him once it reaches a stage they feel is ready. Safran mentioned being “very, very actively involved in that script,” and more details about The Brave and the Bold will be announced “very soon.”

The Batman Part 2 faced another delay last year, pushing its release to October 1, 2027, resulting in a five-year gap between the original film and its sequel. When asked about the release window for The Brave and the Bold, Safran responded, “Well, I think we've announced October, 2027 there will be a Batman movie. That is all we can tell you right now.”

While fans await The Brave and the Bold to see Gunn's Batman, Episode 6 of the DCU canon series Creature Commandos showcased a brief glimpse of Batman, portrayed as a silhouette on a rooftop overlooking crime boss Doctor Phosphorus. This image, while generic, hinted at Batman's existence and recognition within the DCU during the events of Creature Commandos and this year’s Superman movie, eliminating the need to retell his origin story.

Gunn explained to Rotten Tomatoes TV that he requested “more silhouette” for the Batman cameo to keep the character's look non-committal at this stage. He also hinted at a future collaboration between Batman and Superman, stating, “This is the DCU Batman. Listen, I gotta tell you, I just love Batman. I love him. I've loved him since I was a little kid. He's one of my favorite characters. I've gone on the record in the past when I was at Marvel saying my favorite character is Batman. I love him and we're going to do great things with him. He's the most popular superhero in the world and I can't wait for people to see more of him, along with Superman, and together.”

Confirmed DCU Projects

11 Images