Fans Have Spoken: Their Top Choice for Batman in Gunn’s DCU

It’s no secret that Matt Reeves’ The Batman was a tremendous success. Since it introduced a new version of the Dark Knight and exists in a different universe from the former DCEU, many fans speculated that this series wouldn’t connect to James Gunn’s upcoming DCU either.

While Reeves continues to develop his own narrative, the DCU revamp has prompted some shifts that could impact the broader landscape.

Despite concerns that the changes within the DCU might pose challenges for Reeves’ universe, it appears that he will still have the opportunity to shape his own world.

As it stands, Gunn will pursue his interpretation of Batman, while Reeves will stick with Robert Pattinson in his iteration.

The Brave and the Bold will mark the DCU’s first Batman project, but the identity of the Caped Crusader in this new universe remains unclear. Recent reports indicate that Warner Bros. is advocating for Pattinson to continue in the role, though that seems unlikely.

Consequently, we are revisiting earlier rumors that presented three potential candidates. Recently, fans have voiced their preferences, making it clear who they want to see as Batman in the DCU.

In case you missed it, three names have emerged as strong contenders among fans for the role of Batman in the DCU. However, it’s important to note that James Gunn has not commented on this, so these suggestions remain speculative.

The three candidates generating buzz are Jensen Ackles (known for Supernatural and The Boys, who has voiced Batman before), Alan Ritchson (star of Reacher), and Jake Gyllenhaal (a well-established actor with an impressive resume).

In a recent poll conducted on Reddit, fans made their preferences clear regarding who they want to see take on the mantle of Batman in the DCU:

DCU Batman rumored Fan-cast Poll.
byu/ApprehensiveFee4028 inDC_Cinematic

If you’re unable to view the poll, here’s the breakdown: Jake Gyllenhaal and Alan Ritchson received third and second place, respectively, with 82 and 88 votes. Meanwhile, Jensen Ackles led the poll with 166 votes—nearly double that of the other two combined. It’s clear that fans are eager to see Ackles as the next Batman. Here are some notable comments reflecting that sentiment:

I’m glad most people as of the time I’m making this comment agree that my boy Jensen Ackles would be the best out of the three choices.

Especially considering the hate he gets on Reddit for some reason… (I’m not talking about people who simply disagree with the fancast btw, I respect that opinion).

I think one thing that distinguishes him from the other two is that he’s actually a fan, and it doesn’t come off as “I want this role because it would be the best for my career” which it would be he actually is a fan for years at least a decade.

The dedication Jensen Ackles would have to this role would be as high as it can get and that’s what the DCU needs for the two most iconic DC characters of all time Superman and Batman.

David Corenswet has shown us he’s a fan of Superman and we see his dedication at the gym, it would be no different with Jensen Ackles.

This is only one reason I have for why Jensen should play Batman, I could go on and on and on.

– SnooRobots281

Gyllenhall has the acting range to give us something charming, brooding, playful—dynamic, in a word.

The rest are great talents. I just think we’ve been waiting for someone who can do this much with the role for a long time. Wouldn’t mind seeing Ritchson in an Elseworlds film one day.

– ProsePilgrim

Alan Ritchson may have the most Batman physique, but IMO I really don’t think he would make a good Bruce Wayne. Physique isn’t everything when it comes to playing Batman, acting ability is WAY more important.

I also never understood why people fancast Ackles as Batman.    

Jake Gyllenhaal is a genuinely great actor, and really underrated. With all due respect to Ackles and Ritchson, in terms of range and acting ability, neither of them are in the same league as Gyllenhaal. Plus he’s proved that he can bulk up and get bigger, for those who are concerned that he’s smaller than Ritchson.

– Forsaken_Ad709

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