The online petition had 10,000 signatures, fueled by fan theories and fueled by hope. Someone even mocked up a composite image: Pattinson’s haunted eyes peering from under one cowl, Corenswet’s earnest jawline set against another. But James Gunn just extinguished that particular flame with a single word.
As the world waits for more Batman to grace the big screen, James Gunn wants you to know, unequivocally, that Robert Pattinson won’t be pulling double duty.
On Threads, a fan directly asked if Pattinson might portray a DCU variant of the Bat, separate from Matt Reeves’ established universe. Gunn’s reply? A firm “no,” reiterating his previous statements about keeping the two continuities distinctly separate. It’s a line in the sand, drawn with a batarang.
He’s been upfront about Batman’s tricky nature within the broader DCU. Back in 2025, he stated it was “certainly not the plan” for Pattinson to juggle two Dark Knights, despite fervent online hopes.
Welp no Pattison as DCU Batman pic.twitter.com/BLR4RCcitr
— Daniel Richtman (@DanielRPK) January 28, 2026
James Gunn stands by Christina Hodson, writer of Brave and the Bold
Imagine having your work judged before anyone’s even seen the final product. That’s the situation Christina Hodson, writer of Birds of Prey and The Flash, finds herself in as she takes on Brave and the Bold.
This film, announced early in Gunn’s tenure, recently secured Hodson as its writer. In a separate Threads post, Gunn defended her, stating that anyone holding the latter film against her “has almost certainly never read an actual screenplay by Christina. She’s one of the writers who was with us early in the DCU planning stages. I don’t think you can judge my writing based on films others directed, as massive liberties are sometimes taken.” He’s essentially saying: don’t shoot the messenger.
Why is Batman such a tricky character to incorporate into a shared universe?
The challenge with Batman lies in his inherent nature. He’s a creature of the shadows, a loner operating outside the system. Integrating that deeply ingrained solitude into a bright, team-oriented universe like the DCU requires careful balancing. Too much darkness, and he overshadows the other heroes. Too little, and he’s no longer Batman. Gunn’s approach seems to be creating distinct pockets, allowing different versions to flourish without stepping on each other’s toes.
Separate Batmans: A Multiverse or a Strategic Division?
Think of it like this: you have your favorite coffee shop, the one that consistently delivers that perfect latte. Now, imagine a new coffee shop opening across the street, promising something similar but different.
This is what Gunn is doing with Batman. For fans hoping to see David Corenswet and Pattinson share the big screen, patience is key: a different actor will don the cowl for Brave and the Bold and any subsequent Batman appearances within Gunn’s universe. Meanwhile, Pattinson will continue his journey in October 2027’s The Batman Part II.
When can we expect the next Batman movie in the DCU?
While The Batman Part II is slated for October 2027, the timeline for Batman’s introduction into the DCU remains fluid. Brave and the Bold is in development, but no release date has been confirmed. The key is to watch for announcements from DC Studios and James Gunn himself via platforms such as Threads.
The Future of the Bat: A Tale of Two Caped Crusaders
Consider the comics for a moment. For decades, multiple versions of Batman have coexisted, each with their own distinct style and story. This separation allows writers and artists to explore different facets of the character without disrupting the core narrative.
Gunn appears to be mirroring this approach in film. Pattinson’s Batman occupies a grounded, gritty world, a stark contrast to the potentially more fantastical DCU. One is a slow burn mystery, the other an operatic superhero saga. This divergence allows for creative freedom and caters to a wider range of audience preferences.
Who might be cast as the DCU’s Batman?
The million-dollar (€920,000) question. With Pattinson definitively out of the running, speculation is rife. Names are being tossed around, from established actors looking for a franchise role to up-and-comers eager to make their mark. Gunn’s track record suggests he’ll prioritize talent and suitability over star power. Keep an eye on casting announcements from reliable sources like Variety and The Hollywood Reporter.
Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.
So, with one Batman brooding in the shadows of Gotham and another waiting in the wings for the DCU, is this a smart move for DC, or does it dilute the Batman brand?