Alan Ritchson, known for his iconic role as the titular character in Reacher, has recently shared that he’s in talks to join James Gunn and Peter Safran’s newly launched DC Universe (DCU). While his name has been floated in fan circles for the role of Batman, Ritchson has confirmed that he’s not aiming to wear the Dark Knight’s cape. Instead, he’s seeking a role that lets him delve into something a little “messier” and darker than the typical clean-cut protagonist.
Let’s break down Ritchson’s thoughts on joining the DCU, what kind of character he’s hoping to play, and why his name continues to pop up in discussions surrounding Batman.
Alan Ritchson’s Desire to Join the DCU
Ritchson’s work in Reacher has earned him a strong fan base, and his performances in shows like Titans and Smallville have already connected him to the DC universe. In a recent interview with ScreenRant, Ritchson was asked about the possibility of him joining the DCU. His response indicated that he’s not interested in playing a hero like Batman but would rather take on a character with a more complex, “messy” personality.
| Actor | Role in DCU | Previous DC Appearances |
|---|---|---|
| Alan Ritchson | Potential DCU Character (Not Batman) | Titans (Hank Hall/Hawk), Smallville (Aquaman) |
When asked about his potential role, Ritchson said:
“Yeah, that’s the conversation I’ve been having with them, is like, ‘I want to play somebody a little messier.’ I told them, I described the kind of personality that I’d want to play and what that would mean to their world, and I think it’s something everybody wants to see right now over there.”
A Darker, Messier Role Than Batman?
Though fans and critics have considered Ritchson for the role of Batman, the actor has expressed a clear preference for playing a different type of character. Instead of portraying a “clean-cut” hero, he wants a role that gives him more creative freedom to explore complex, flawed characters.
Ritchson continued,
“I want to play somebody a little dirtier than your typical clean-cut protagonist.”
This statement suggests that Ritchson is seeking to step away from traditional superhero roles, where characters are often morally black-and-white, and instead play someone with more ambiguity, who is deeply human and potentially villainous.
Why Ritchson Would Make a Great Villain?
Ritchson’s desire to play a more “messy” character could point towards the possibility of him joining the ranks of DC’s villains. His previous roles have demonstrated his versatility in playing characters that are both physically commanding and emotionally complex. Whether it’s his role as the tough but compassionate Hawk in Titans or his portrayal of the bold yet flawed Reacher, Ritchson’s ability to balance strength and vulnerability would lend itself well to a villainous DCU character.
Batman in the DCU: The Brave and the Bold
With Ritchson ruling out the role of Batman for himself, fans are left wondering who will play the next incarnation of the Dark Knight in the DCU. The Brave and the Bold, an upcoming film in the DCU that is still in early stages of production, will introduce a new Batman. However, casting for the role has yet to be announced.
While Ritchson has been vocal about his desire to play the iconic role, it appears that he is setting his sights on something more unique and unpredictable.
| Upcoming DCU Project | Expected Release Year | Details |
|---|---|---|
| The Brave and the Bold | Early 2027 | New Batman for the DCU |
Ritchson’s Thoughts on Batman:
“I get asked every day if I’m playing Batman. Yeah, would I play Batman? Yes. Would I pay handsomely to be Batman? You wouldn’t even have to pay me to be Batman. I would, yeah, I would don the suit. ‘Gotham is mine.’ Look at that. I don’t even have to practice. It just comes out naturally.”
Fans Campaign for Ritchson as Batman
While Ritchson’s comments suggest he’s not actively pursuing the role of Batman, many fans still believe he’d be the perfect fit. His appearance and intense screen presence, combined with his experience in action-packed roles, have led to a growing online campaign to have Ritchson cast as the next Batman. His portrayal of the stoic, yet emotionally complex Reacher has led many to believe he has the right qualities to embody the Dark Knight.
Why Fans Want Ritchson as Batman?
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Physical Presence | Ritchson’s build and stature make him a natural fit for the role of Batman. |
| Emotional Depth | Ritchson’s ability to convey emotion through stillness would fit well with Batman’s character. |
| Action Experience | Ritchson has years of experience in action roles, making him well-equipped for Batman’s physical demands. |
Alan Ritchson’s Potential Future in the DCU
For now, it remains unclear which DCU character Ritchson might be joining. Projects like Lanterns, Supergirl, and even potential villains like Clayface could see him cast, but there’s no official word yet on his involvement in these projects.
With Ritchson’s desire to play a character with depth, it’s likely that whatever role he takes will be one that allows him to explore the darker, more complicated side of DC’s universe.
FAQs
No, Alan Ritchson has confirmed he is not in talks to play Batman. Instead, he’s seeking a role that’s more complex and “messy.”
Ritchson has expressed interest in playing a character that is more morally ambiguous, someone “dirtier” than the typical clean-cut protagonist.
As of now, there is no official announcement about which DCU project Ritchson will join, although fans have speculated about his involvement in upcoming films.
The Brave and the Bold is expected to release in early 2027, and will feature a new version of Batman.
Yes, Ritchson played Hawk in Titans and Aquaman in Smallville, both of which are part of the DC universe.
