Nearly ten years after his last turn as the Caped Crusader, Will Arnett has revealed that he would love to return as Batman if given the opportunity. Meanwhile, as DC Studios continues building its new shared universe, fans have been revisiting the many actors who have portrayed DC’s iconic heroes over the years. Among them, one of the most unique and beloved Batman performances came from Arnett, who voiced the Dark Knight in The LEGO Batman Movie (2017) and The LEGO Movie.
Will Arnett on Returning as Batman
Despite The LEGO Batman Movie receiving strong reviews—earning 89% on Rotten Tomatoes—and also grossing $312 million worldwide, a sequel ultimately never materialized.
In fact, speaking in a new interview with Variety, Arnett made it clear that he still has deep affection for the role and the creative team behind the film.
“I love Lord and Miller. Those guys are the best.”
“That was a really fun time in my life.”
At one point, a sequel was in development. However, the project was ultimately canceled after Universal acquired the LEGO film rights in 2020, while at the same time Warner Bros. retained the rights to Batman and other DC characters, thereby creating a rights conflict that stalled progress. Even so, Arnett said he would “love” to return as Batman in the future if the opportunity ever came along. Overall, his comments reflect the lasting connection many actors continue to feel toward their DC roles.
Other DC Actors Interested in Returning as Batman and More
Since the DCU reboot under James Gunn and Peter Safran, several former DC actors have publicly expressed interest in returning, as long as the story is worth telling. As a result, their comments clearly highlight the continued appeal of DC’s characters, even as the franchise continues to evolve.
Zachary Levi – Shazam
Meanwhile, Zachary Levi has been vocal about his desire to return as Shazam, as long as the story feels meaningful.
“Oh, yeah. I love playing Shazam. It was one of the most fun experiences…”
“So long as it was something that was really worthy… something new or different that we haven’t seen yet.”
Despite his enthusiasm, Levi has also acknowledged that he does not know what the future holds for the character.
Tyler Hoechlin – Interested in Playing Batman
After previously portraying Superman across the CW’s Arrowverse from 2016 to 2024, Tyler Hoechlin has also expressed interest in stepping into another iconic DC role.
Speaking with Screen Rant at Fan Expo Canada 2025, Hoechlin joked:
“Well, selfishly, I’m going to say no because I still want to play Batman.”
“Rob did a fantastic job… I’m happy to let them keep doing their thing, and maybe leave the door open…”
Meanwhile, with The Brave and the Bold rumored to feature an older Batman, fans have continued to speculate about potential casting choices.
Jai Courtney – Captain Boomerang
Jai Courtney, who played Captain Boomerang in both Suicide Squad films, has also shared interest in returning to DC.
“If there’s any more mileage to milk out of it, I’m your guy.”
Given that characters like Peacemaker and Rick Flag have already carried over into the DCU, the possibility remains open.
Pierce Brosnan – Doctor Fate
Pierce Brosnan, who portrayed Doctor Fate in Black Adam, has said he would be open to returning.
“I enjoyed that, the philosophy of that character, very much, and I would definitely be open to it.”
The ongoing presence of the Justice Society in DC storytelling keeps that door ajar.
Stephen Amell – Green Arrow
Meanwhile, Stephen Amell remains closely connected to his role as Green Arrow.
“I love playing the Green Arrow… Not a day goes by that someone doesn’t talk to me about Arrow.”
“They always relate it back to how the show made them feel.”
So far, no new Green Arrow project has been announced.
David Dastmalchian – Polka-Dot Man
Meanwhile, David Dastmalchian, a frequent collaborator of James Gunn, says he is always ready if called.
“I talk to James all the time; he’s one of my best friends.”
“If James were to call me tomorrow… I’d be there before we got off the phone.”
Aldis Hodge – Hawkman
Similarly, Aldis Hodge, who played Hawkman in Black Adam, has also left the door open.
“If the story is right [and] the timing right, absolutely.”
“I’m also happy just being a fan.”
Meanwhile, while DC Studios continues moving forward with new versions of its heroes, many former actors still remain eager to return—either as their original characters or in entirely new roles.
Ultimately, whether Will Arnett returns as Batman or any of these hopes turn into reality remains to be seen. However, the continued interest from both actors and fans clearly shows just how strong the connection to these characters still is as the DCU moves into its next phase.
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Patrick Webb