James Gunn’s DC Universe is actively working on bringing the next cinematic version of Batman to the big screen, with The Brave and the Bold movie currently in development. While Robert Pattinson’s The Batman universe will remain as an Elseworlds property, DC Studios’ main continuity will have its own incarnation of the Gotham City crime fighter.

It franchise director Andy Muschetti has been attached to The Brave and the Bold since June 15, 2023, and the script for the upcoming DCU movie is still being written. It’s still unknown who the writer is for the screenplay, despite it being worked on.

While casting hasn’t started for the Batman reboot, @Bosslogic shared new artwork of what Ben Barnes could look like as the famous Justice League hero. The design offers a good look at him as both Bruce Wayne in and out of costume. See this artwork, shared on X, in the post below:

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Barnes opened up about the possible gig in a Collider interview on October 1, 2025, and said that he would love to play Batman in The Brave and the Bold movie. The 44-year-old British actor stated: “Hey, I accept. […] Just call me, I’ve got Bruce Wayne ready to go.“

Gunn also revealed to The Ringer-Verse on September 18, 2025, that he has stars in mind for the role of Batman. The Man of Tomorrow director stated: “Do I have ideas about actors to play Batman? Absolutely, I do. I have guys I like. I have guys that are at the top of the list, just like I had people that were at the top of the list for Superman.“

Whoever is cast as the next Caped Crusader will be the second version of the hero to exist in a shared live-action film universe, following Ben Affleck, who portrayed the icon in the DCEU movie timeline. The hero has already appeared in DCU animation, making his debut during Creature Commandos.

Other actors who have expressed interest in playing the popular superhero include Alan Ritchson and Jensen Ackles, with the Reacher star even having conversations with Gunn. Ritchson revealed to Variety on August 29, 2025: “Words have been exchanged about Batman. But I strongly don’t think that Batman is in my future.“

With The Batman Part II set to start filming in 2026, that will be DC Studios’ next focus for the DC icon, even while they are tackling the one for Gunn’s franchise. As of right now, The Brave and the Bold has no release date.