Robert Pattinson Won’t Join the DCU, Confirms James Gunn

At Comic-Con this past weekend, DC Studios co-head James Gunn addressed a question that’s been on many fans’ minds. Will Robert Pattinson’s Batman ever join the DCU alongside David Corenswet’s Superman? Unfortunately, for those holding out hope, Gunn made it clear. Robert Pattinson won’t be stepping into the DCU—at least not anytime soon.

Why Robert Pattinson’s Batman Stays in the Robert Pattinson Universe

While fans continue to dream of a crossover between Matt Reeves’ gritty Gotham and Gunn’s rebooted DC Universe, James Gunn has drawn a clear line. In a conversation with Entertainment Tonight, he clarified:

“I’ve said it before, we’ve talked about it before … it’s not what’s happening right now,” Gunn said. “You know … everything is in flux, so we’ll figure out what we’re doing next.”

The statement leaves the door slightly open for future developments, but it reinforces that Robert Pattinson’s version of Batman remains in a standalone continuity—for now.

Why Robert Pattinson’s Batman Won’t Be Joining the DCU

This decision stems from Gunn and Reeves’ mutual respect for one another’s creative visions. Rather than merge timelines and styles, they are developing their worlds separately. Reeves continues to expand his noir-inspired Batman universe with Robert Pattinson at the center. Meanwhile, Gunn is actively rebooting the DCU with fresh faces and a new tone.

Meanwhile, the DCU is prioritizing projects like Supergirl, the Lanterns TV series, and a fresh take on Wonder Woman. Gunn is also preparing for The Brave and the Bold, which will introduce a new Batman—and this one will exist inside the DCU alongside characters like Superman and Green Lantern.

The DCU’s Batman Will Be a Different Character

Rather than force a merger, Gunn will develop a different Batman, one who fits the tone and purpose of the new DCU. The film The Brave and the Bold will introduce a more seasoned Batman alongside Damian Wayne.

This strategy avoids confusion for general audiences and gives both franchises—Reeves’ Gotham and Gunn’s DCU—room to breathe and evolve. Pattinson can continue exploring a younger, more detective-driven Batman, while the DCU crafts its own vision of the Dark Knight.

Fan Reactions Are Still Divided Over Robert Pattinson

Unsurprisingly, fan reactions are split. Some fans love the grounded realism and emotional complexity Pattinson brings to the role. Others argue he doesn’t embody the physical presence or heroic stature expected of a Batman who would fight side-by-side with Superman.

Some fans see him as a compelling character study. Others dismiss him as “emo Batman.” They prefer a bulkier, more battle-ready Dark Knight for team-up scenarios.

A Multiverse with Clear Boundaries

Ultimately, Gunn’s decision allows each creative vision to flourish without compromise. Pattinson remains the central figure in Reeves’ grounded Gotham City, while a new Batman will rise in the DCU—a universe already in motion with multiple high-profile projects.

As Gunn put it, “everything is in flux,” meaning the future is never fully set. But for now, don’t expect to see Robert Pattinson’s Batman standing beside Superman on the battlefield. Instead, he’ll be defending Gotham solo—just the way Reeves intended.