The search for the DCU’s new Batman is becoming increasingly exciting, especially after a surprising twist involving actor Tom Brittney. Although he lost the Superman role to David Corenswet, Brittney may still find himself leading the franchise in a different, yet equally iconic, direction. As a result, fans are buzzing with speculation, while industry insiders are watching closely.
How a Superman Audition Opened the Door for Batman
Tom Brittney, known for his work on Grantchester, was reportedly a finalist for Superman. Although he ultimately lost the role, fans quickly began speculating about his future in the DCU. A Threads post pitched Brittney as Batman, prompting James Gunn to respond:
“That guy is a great fking actor!”**
This brief but enthusiastic praise instantly fueled online discussions. Many fans believe that Brittney’s talent and versatility make him a strong contender for the Caped Crusader.
Hints From Past DCU Casting Decisions
James Gunn has shown a willingness to repurpose impressive talent. Nicholas Hoult, another Superman finalist, was later cast as Lex Luthor. This indicates that Gunn is more interested in quality performance than initial role placement, keeping doors open for actors like Brittney.
Additionally, Gunn has received numerous inquiries from actors vying for Batman, emphasizing how competitive the casting process is. Fans eagerly watch for any hint or subtle confirmation in his comments and social media interactions.
Other Actors Rumored for the New Batman
While Brittney is a popular fan pick, other names are also being floated.
Brandon Sklenar Enters the Conversation
Brandon Sklenar has gained attention due to Gunn publicly praising his performances. Industry speculation suggests he fits the rumored casting criteria:
- Mid-30s age range
- Superhero-ready physique
- Strong acting chops
Given these factors, multiple actors appear to be in contention, making the final casting choice highly anticipated.
The Competitive Casting Environment
The Batman role is highly sought after, with many actors auditioning and engaging with fans on social media. James Gunn’s approach shows that talent and fan engagement both play a role in casting decisions.
Timeline for The Brave and the Bold
Currently, The Brave and the Bold does not have a confirmed release date. Script approvals and broader DCU rollout plans are still in progress. Industry insiders speculate that Batman’s DCU debut may arrive around 2028–2029.
Until official announcements, casting speculation and fan theories will continue to dominate discussions.
This iteration of Batman will not replace Robert Pattinson, whose version exists in the Elseworlds storyline. Instead, the DCU’s Batman may embrace a Grant Morrison-inspired storyline, which explores themes beyond crime-fighting, including parenting and personal growth.
Damian Wayne is expected to play a significant role, introducing a mentor-student dynamic and adding emotional depth to the superhero narrative. Fans can anticipate a more nuanced Batman, balancing heroism with family responsibilities.
For now, casting remains unconfirmed, and James Gunn has not provided official confirmation. Nevertheless, his praise for Tom Brittney has amplified speculation. Until official news drops, fans will continue connecting dots surrounding the future Batman of the DCU.
With Gunn at the helm, it’s clear that the DCU is prioritizing talent, vision, and storytelling. This makes the eventual reveal of the new Batman one of the most anticipated events in the DC fandom.
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Ambily Sajan 
Patrick Webb