MCU Star Wants to Play the Joker in the DCU

MCU Star Chukwudi Iwuji Expresses Interest in the Joker

Chukwudi Iwuji is widely recognized for his roles as The High Evolutionary in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and Clemson Murn in Peacemaker. Recently, he revealed his interest in portraying one of DC’s most iconic villains—The Joker—in James Gunn’s expanding DC Universe. As a result, fans of both the MCU and DCU are buzzing with excitement about the possibility of Iwuji bringing his own unique interpretation to Gotham’s chaotic clown prince. Furthermore, many are curious to see how his experience in superhero universes could influence his take on this legendary character.

Exploring the Maniacal Nature of the Joker

Speaking about the character, Iwuji said,

“There has to be something maniacal about The Joker, right? But maniacal has such a huge range.”

His insight shows a thoughtful approach to a role that has been portrayed in vastly different ways by previous actors.

MCU Star Draws Inspiration From Heath Ledger and Joaquin Phoenix

Iwuji drew inspiration from past portrayals of The Joker. On Heath Ledger’s performance, he stated,

“The part of Heath Ledger’s Joker that moved me the most was when you realize that he keeps making up a story about his father each time. And when I asked myself, ‘Well, why would you do that?’ … Again, that loneliness and that he’s covering up with this flamboyant thing, but he keeps making up a story about his father.”

Regarding Joaquin Phoenix’s interpretation, he added,

“I think it comes from a guy that feels the need to make up a story about his father and that there’s a guy that wishes he could be dancing on the steps with water and not give a shit, but he has this mantle of being the Joker to play.”

The Depth and Darkness of the Joker

Iwuji also emphasized the emotional complexity behind the character:

“There will be a deep sadness in him. I just feel there’s so much richness about sadness with the Joker. And when you’re so laser-focused on your inner turmoil, the things you could do to other people without even it counting is very scary.”

This perspective suggests that his version of the Joker could balance both terror and psychological depth, staying true to the villain’s legacy.

Potential DCU Projects Featuring the Joker

Although DCU has not announced any official casting, fans are speculating that The Joker could appear in upcoming projects such as The Brave and the Bold (a Batman-focused film), the untitled Teen Titans movie, a Bane/Deathstroke project, or the 2026 Clayface movie. As the DCU expands rapidly, Iwuji’s potential casting could bring fresh energy to the franchise.

The Legacy of the Joker in Media

Numerous actors have brought The Joker to life over the decades. This includes Mark Hamill’s iconic voice work, Heath Ledger’s Academy Award-winning portrayal, Joaquin Phoenix’s Oscar-winning interpretation, and Jared Leto’s modern take. Iwuji’s MCU background could provide a unique bridge between his experience in high-profile superhero universes and Gotham’s dark, unpredictable world.