Robert Pattinson Out as DCU Batman

James Gunn and Peter Safran have officially announced that The Brave and the Bold will introduce a new Batman to the DCU, confirming that actor Robert Pattinson will not reprise his role in this new universe. During a DC Studios presentation attended by IGN, the co-chiefs clarified that Pattinson's portrayal of Batman will be exclusive to Matt Reeves' The Batman Epic Crime Saga.

"It's certainly not the plan," Gunn stated firmly about the possibility of Pattinson crossing over into the DCU. Safran echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to introduce a new Batman for the DCU. "And we love him, but we've got to introduce a Batman into the DCU. That's imperative. And so that's the plan with The Brave and the Bold."

The speculation about Pattinson potentially playing Batman across the entire DCU arose earlier this year when Reeves hinted at the possibility. However, Reeves later clarified his stance during an interview with Josh Horowitz at the Golden Globes. "It really comes down to whether or not it makes sense," Reeves explained. He emphasized his focus on The Batman Epic Crime Saga and expressed gratitude for Gunn and Safran's support in allowing him to pursue his vision. "What the future brings? I can’t really tell you. I have no idea right now except that my head is down now about getting The Batman Part 2 shooting and to make it something really, really special which, of course, is the most important thing."

Confirmed DCU Projects

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Safran expressed enthusiasm for Reeves' upcoming project, The Batman Part 2, stating, "We love Matt's vision for The Batman Part 2, and we're looking forward to this film as much as you are." He noted that while Reeves has yet to submit a script, the initial drafts are promising.

Meanwhile, The Brave and the Bold is in "very active development," with Gunn and Safran actively working on the script. Regarding the director, Safran mentioned that they will present the script to Andy Muschietti, the director of The Flash, once it's ready. "I'm very, very actively involved in that script," Gunn added. Safran hinted that more details about The Brave and the Bold will be revealed soon.

The Batman Part 2 faced another delay last year, pushing its release to October 1, 2027. This means a five-year gap between the first film and its sequel. When asked about the potential release window for The Brave and the Bold, Safran was cryptic, saying, "Well, I think we've announced October, 2027 there will be a Batman movie. That is all we can tell you right now."

Fans eager to see Gunn's take on Batman got a glimpse in Episode 6 of Creature Commandos, where Batman was shown standing on a rooftop overlooking crime boss Doctor Phosphorus. The image featured a muscular Batman in his classic costume, but little else was revealed about Gunn's vision for the character. Gunn explained to Rotten Tomatoes TV that he requested a more silhouetted look for Batman, as the initial design was too detailed for the stage of development they were at.

Gunn further clarified that this version of Batman already exists within the DCU during the events of Creature Commandos and the upcoming Superman movie, and is well-known within the universe. This eliminates the need to retell his origin story. Additionally, Gunn hinted at a future collaboration between Batman and Superman, expressing his deep affection for the character. "This is the DCU Batman," he said. "Listen, I gotta tell you, I just love Batman. I love him. I've loved him since I was a little kid. He's one of my favorite characters. I've gone on the record in the past when I was at Marvel saying my favorite character is Batman. I love him and we're going to do great things with him. He's the most popular superhero in the world and I can't wait for people to see more of him, along with Superman, and together."