Robert Pattinson Out as DCU Batman

James Gunn and Peter Safran have officially announced that a new Batman will be introduced to the DCU through the upcoming film The Brave and the Bold, confirming that Robert Pattinson, who plays Batman in Matt Reeves' The Batman Epic Crime Saga, will not reprise his role in the broader DCU.

During a DC Studios presentation covered by IGN, Gunn and Safran made it clear that Pattinson's portrayal of Batman is exclusive to Reeves' universe. "It's certainly not the plan," Gunn stated firmly about any potential crossover. Safran added, "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 around Pattinson possibly playing Batman across the DCU was fueled earlier this year when Reeves hinted at the possibility. Speaking to reporter Josh Horowitz at the Golden Globes, Reeves said, "It really comes down to whether or not it makes sense. What’s been great is there was a story that I wanted to tell with what we’re calling The Epic Crime Saga and all that, which is the thrust of what we want to do. And it’s been important to me to be able to play that out. And James and Peter have been really, really great about that and they’re letting us do that. 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."

Safran expressed enthusiasm for Reeves' vision for The Batman Part 2, saying, "We love Reeves’ 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 turn in a script, "what we've read so far is very encouraging."

Meanwhile, The Brave and the Bold is in "very active development," with Gunn stating, "The story is coming together very nicely." There's uncertainty about whether Andy Muschietti, the director of The Flash, will helm this project. Gunn and Safran are still developing the script and will present it to Muschietti "when we have it in a place where we think it's ready to go... and see if it's a fit for him," Safran explained. Gunn added, "I'm very, very actively involved in that script." Safran teased that more details about The Brave and the Bold will be announced "very soon."

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

While fans eagerly await The Brave and the Bold to see Gunn's take on Batman, a glimpse of the character was offered in Episode 6 of the DCU canon series Creature Commandos. The episode showed Batman standing on a rooftop, observing crime boss Doctor Phosphorus. The image showcased a robust Batman in his iconic costume, but little else was revealed about Gunn's vision for the character. Gunn explained to Rotten Tomatoes TV that he requested "more silhouette" for the initial depiction, indicating he wasn't ready to fully commit to a detailed portrayal at that stage.

This brief appearance in Creature Commandos confirmed that Batman already exists within the DCU timeline during the events of the series and the upcoming Superman movie, and he is a well-known figure within the universe, eliminating the need for an origin story. Gunn's enthusiasm for Batman was palpable as he said, "This is the DCU Batman. 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."

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Batman in Creature Commandos. Image credit: Max.