Top 15 Actors Perfect for DCU’s Batman Role
The DC Universe is gearing up for a fresh take on Batman with ‘The Brave and the Bold,’ a film that will introduce a new Dark Knight alongside his son, Damian Wayne, as Robin. With James Gunn leading the charge, the search for the next Bruce Wayne is heating up, and we’re excited to dive into the actors who could bring this iconic hero to life.
This reboot promises a seasoned Batman, likely in his late 30s or 40s, balancing the charm of a billionaire playboy with the grit of Gotham’s vigilante. Here are 15 actors we think could nail the role, each bringing something unique to the cowl.
Jensen Ackles
Jensen Ackles has long been a fan favorite to play Batman, and it’s easy to see why. His work as Dean Winchester in ‘Supernatural’ (2005-2020) shows he can handle a tough, brooding character with a sharp wit, perfect for Bruce Wayne’s duality. Ackles also voiced Batman in animated projects like ‘Batman: The Long Halloween’ (2021), proving he’s got the gravitas for the role.
At 46, Ackles fits the mold of an older Batman mentoring a young Robin. His action-hero experience in ‘The Boys’ (2019-2024) and his natural charisma make him a strong contender to embody both the Dark Knight’s intensity and Bruce’s charm.
Alan Ritchson
Alan Ritchson’s towering 6’3” frame and action-hero credentials make him a compelling choice for Batman. His role as Jack Reacher in ‘Reacher’ (2022-2024) highlights his ability to play a smart, physically imposing figure who bends the rules, much like Batman does in Gotham. Ritchson’s enthusiasm for the role is clear—he’s openly said he’d love to take on the part.
His commanding presence and dry humor could bring a fresh edge to Bruce Wayne, while his physicality ensures a Batman who feels unstoppable. Ritchson, at 41, strikes a balance between seasoned and dynamic, ideal for a Batman guiding his son.
Tom Bateman
Tom Bateman’s suave demeanor and knack for mystery roles make him a dark horse for Batman. Known for playing Bouc in ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ (2017) and ‘Death on the Nile’ (2022), he’s got the charm to pull off Bruce Wayne’s playboy facade. His work in ‘Based on a True Story’ (2023-2024) shows he can handle layered characters.
At 35, Bateman aligns with the younger end of the DCU’s vision, able to grow with the role alongside David Corenswet’s Superman. His ability to blend sophistication with intensity makes him a great fit for a Batman navigating family and crime-fighting.
Brandon Sklenar
Brandon Sklenar’s rise in Hollywood, thanks to his role as Spencer Dutton in ‘1923’ (2022-2023), positions him as a strong Batman candidate. His portrayal of a war hero with tracking skills and a commanding presence mirrors the Dark Knight’s resourcefulness. Sklenar’s enthusiasm for the role adds to his appeal.
At 34, he’s young enough to pair with Corenswet’s Superman while bringing the maturity needed for a Batman with a son. His action sequences and intense demeanor in ‘1923’ suggest he could deliver a grounded, emotional Bruce Wayne.
Oliver Jackson-Cohen
Oliver Jackson-Cohen’s versatility makes him an intriguing pick for Batman. His roles in ‘The Haunting of Hill House’ (2018) and ‘The Invisible Man’ (2020) show he can handle dark, emotional characters with a brooding edge. At 38, he’s the right age to portray a seasoned Bruce Wayne.
His 6-foot stature and ability to shift between charm and intensity fit both the billionaire and the vigilante. Jackson-Cohen’s work in horror and mystery genres proves he can carry the weight of Batman’s darker moments while maintaining a relatable humanity.
Jonathan Bailey
Jonathan Bailey’s dramatic range, seen in ‘Wicked’ (2024) and ‘Bridgerton’ (2020-2024), makes him a bold choice for Batman. His ability to portray charismatic yet complex characters suits Bruce Wayne’s public and private sides. At 36, he’s a fresh pick for a trailblazing Dark Knight.
Bailey’s physicality and emotional depth could bring a new spin to Batman, especially as a mentor to Damian. His rising star power and ability to handle intense roles make him a contender for a Batman who stands out in the DCU.
Luke Evans
Luke Evans brings a commanding presence that screams Batman. His roles in ‘Dracula Untold’ (2014) and ‘The Hobbit’ trilogy (2012-2014) showcase his ability to embody dark, action-driven characters. At 44, Evans fits the older Batman mold, perfect for a father figure to Robin.
His experience with high-stakes action and his cool, charismatic vibe make him ideal for both Batman’s intensity and Bruce Wayne’s charm. Evans could deliver a Batman who feels both intimidating and approachable, a rare balance.
John Krasinski
John Krasinski’s action-hero turn in ‘Jack Ryan’ (2018-2023) proves he can handle Batman’s detective and combat skills. His brief role as Reed Richards in ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’ (2022) showed he can tackle iconic heroes. At 45, he’s a great fit for a seasoned Batman.
Krasinski’s ability to blend intelligence with physicality makes him a strong candidate. His charm and everyman appeal could ground Bruce Wayne, while his action experience ensures a Batman who feels capable and driven.
Richard Madden
Richard Madden’s roles in ‘Game of Thrones’ (2011-2019) and ‘Bodyguard’ (2018) highlight his ability to play intense, morally complex characters. At 39, he’s well-suited to portray a Batman balancing leadership and personal struggles, especially with a young Robin in tow.
Madden’s physicality and emotional depth could bring a fresh take on Bruce Wayne’s duality. His experience in high-stakes dramas suggests he can handle Batman’s darker moments while keeping the character relatable and engaging.
Jake Gyllenhaal
Jake Gyllenhaal’s versatility, seen in ‘Nightcrawler’ (2014) and ‘Prisoners’ (2013), makes him a top contender for Batman. His ability to portray dark, driven characters fits the Dark Knight’s psyche, while his charm suits Bruce Wayne’s public persona. At 44, he’s in the right age range.
Gyllenhaal’s range allows him to tackle Batman’s trauma and intensity with ease. His action roles and ability to convey complex emotions make him a compelling choice for a Batman navigating family and justice.
Jon Hamm
Jon Hamm’s suave, commanding presence in ‘Mad Men’ (2007-2015) screams Bruce Wayne. At 54, he’s a bit older, but his comic book fandom and experience with layered characters make him a strong fit for a seasoned Batman mentoring his son.
Hamm’s ability to balance charm with gravitas could redefine the Dark Knight. His interest in superhero roles and his imposing frame suggest he could bring a unique, mature take to the DCU’s Batman.
Winston Duke
Winston Duke’s powerful presence in ‘Black Panther’ (2018) and ‘Us’ (2019) makes him an exciting choice for Batman. At 38, he could bring a fresh perspective, potentially as the first Black actor to play Bruce Wayne in live-action, shaking up the role.
Duke’s physicality and ability to portray skilled warriors fit Batman’s combat prowess. His interest in challenging traditional casting norms could lead to a groundbreaking, dynamic Dark Knight for the DCU.
Taron Egerton
Taron Egerton’s energy and versatility, seen in ‘Kingsman: The Secret Service’ (2014) and ‘Rocketman’ (2019), make him a vibrant pick for Batman. At 35, he’s young enough to grow with the DCU while bringing the maturity needed for a fatherly Bruce Wayne.
His ability to blend vulnerability with strength suits Batman’s complex nature. Egerton’s action experience and charismatic screen presence could deliver a fresh, engaging take on the Caped Crusader.
Ethan Peck
Ethan Peck’s nuanced performance as Spock in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ (2019-2024) and ‘Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’ (2022-2024) shows he can handle iconic roles with depth. At 39, he’s a great fit for a Batman balancing family and vigilantism.
Peck’s ability to portray duality—calm yet intense—mirrors Bruce Wayne’s public and private lives. His rising star status and physical presence make him a compelling choice for a new DCU Batman.
John David Washington
John David Washington’s commanding presence in ‘Tenet’ (2020) and ‘BlacKkKlansman’ (2018) positions him as a bold choice for Batman. At 40, he could bring a unique spin, potentially as a non-traditional Bruce Wayne, distinguishing him from past portrayals.
His action-hero credentials and ability to convey intensity make him ideal for the Dark Knight. Washington’s fresh take could add diversity and depth to the DCU’s Batman, making him a standout.
Who’s your pick to don the cowl as the DCU’s Batman, or did we miss a perfect candidate? Share your thoughts in the comments!
