Top 15 Actors to Bring Ocean Master to Life in the DC Universe

The DC Universe is charging toward a bold new era under James Gunn’s leadership, with fresh takes on iconic characters. Ocean Master, the fierce Atlantean rival to Aquaman, demands an actor who can embody regal intensity, complex ambition, and commanding presence.

We’ve handpicked 15 actors who could nail this villainous role, each bringing a unique spark to Orm Marius. From seasoned stars to rising talents, these performers have the charisma and depth to make Ocean Master unforgettable in the rebooted DCU.

Alexander Skarsgård

Alexander Skarsgård has a knack for playing layered, intense characters. His towering presence and sharp emotional range make him a strong fit for Ocean Master’s regal yet ruthless vibe.
Known for roles in ‘The Northman’ (2022) and ‘Big Little Lies’ (2017-2019), he blends raw physicality with deep inner conflict, perfect for a villain torn between duty and vengeance.

Sam Claflin

Sam Claflin’s charm and versatility shine in high-stakes roles. His experience in water-bound adventures makes him a natural choice for the Atlantean prince.
With standout performances in ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides’ (2011) and ‘The Hunger Games’ series (2013-2015), Claflin could bring a youthful, driven edge to Orm’s quest for power.

Jensen Ackles

Jensen Ackles thrives in gritty, charismatic roles that demand heart and intensity. His commanding screen presence would make Ocean Master a fan favorite.
From ‘Supernatural’ (2005-2020) to his bold turn as Soldier Boy in ‘The Boys’ (2019-present), Ackles could deliver a villain who’s both menacing and magnetic.

Austin Butler

Austin Butler’s rising star power and intense performances mark him as a contender. His ability to channel charisma and danger suits Ocean Master’s complex nature.
With roles in ‘Elvis’ (2022) and ‘Dune: Part Two’ (2024), Butler could portray an Orm who’s both a regal leader and a fierce warrior.

Joe Alwyn

Joe Alwyn brings subtle intensity and classic appeal to his roles. His lean frame and emotional depth align with a more traditional take on Ocean Master.
Seen in ‘The Favourite’ (2018) and ‘Conversations with Friends’ (2022), Alwyn could craft a younger, conflicted Orm discovering his path to power.

Dev Patel

Dev Patel’s dynamic range makes him a bold pick. His ability to balance intensity and relatability could refresh Ocean Master’s outsider status.
From ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ (2008) to ‘The Green Knight’ (2021), Patel could bring a unique energy to an Atlantean torn between worlds.

Adrian Grenier

Adrian Grenier’s laid-back charm and grounded performances offer a fresh angle. He could portray a relatable yet ambitious Ocean Master.
Best known for ‘Entourage’ (2004-2011) and ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ (2006), Grenier’s charisma could highlight Orm’s journey from doubt to dominance.

Alex Aiono

Alex Aiono’s youthful energy and rising star status make him an intriguing choice. His fresh face could resonate with a new generation of DCU fans.
With roles in ‘Royal Crush’ (2014-2016) and a growing music career, Aiono could embody a young Orm grappling with his royal destiny.

Alan Ritchson

Alan Ritchson’s imposing physique and proven heroics make him a standout. His experience with Aquaman gives him a unique edge for Ocean Master.
Having played Arthur Curry in ‘Smallville’ (2005-2011) and voiced him in ‘Justice League: The New Frontier’ (2008), Ritchson could flip to a commanding villain.

Jack Quaid

Jack Quaid’s versatility and dark edge make him a compelling fit. His ability to shift from charming to sinister suits Ocean Master’s duality.
Known for ‘The Hunger Games’ (2012) and ‘Scream’ (2022), Quaid could bring a sarcastic, menacing vibe to a younger Orm.

Jamie Campbell Bower

Jamie Campbell Bower’s gothic charm and intense presence scream villain. His ability to blend elegance with darkness fits Ocean Master’s regal menace.
With roles in ‘Stranger Things’ (2016-present) and ‘The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones’ (2013), Bower could craft a haunting, poetic Orm.

Giovanni Ribisi

Giovanni Ribisi’s knack for twitchy, cerebral characters offers a unique take. His subtle menace could redefine Ocean Master as a calculating foe.
From ‘Boiler Room’ (2000) to ‘Sneaky Pete’ (2015-2019), Ribisi could portray an Orm who outsmarts his enemies with quiet intensity.

Robert Pattinson

Robert Pattinson’s grasp of dark, complex roles makes him a bold choice. His ability to play unhinged characters could mirror Ocean Master’s obsession.
Already Batman in ‘The Batman’ (2022), Pattinson’s work in ‘The Lighthouse’ (2019) shows he could deliver a chaotic yet regal Orm.

Cillian Murphy

Cillian Murphy’s chilling intensity and commanding presence make him a top pick. His ability to play cerebral villains suits a psychological Ocean Master.
Known for ‘Peaky Blinders’ (2013-2022) and ‘Oppenheimer’ (2023), Murphy could create an Orm who’s both a thinker and a ruthless force.

Joe Manganiello

Joe Manganiello’s imposing physique and nerdy passion for comics make him ideal. His brief DCU role hints at his potential for a bigger part.
After playing Deathstroke in ‘Justice League’ (2017), Manganiello could channel his action-hero charisma into a fierce, commanding Ocean Master.

Which actor do you think would rule as Ocean Master, or did we miss a perfect pick? Drop your thoughts in the comments!