Robert Pattinson Out as DCU Batman: Confirmed

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 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 when asked about Pattinson potentially crossing over into the DCU. 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."

Speculation arose earlier this year when Reeves hinted at the possibility of Pattinson playing Batman across the DCU. However, in an interview with Josh Horowitz at the Golden Globes, Reeves emphasized his focus on The Batman Epic Crime Saga, stating, "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."

Regarding The Batman Part 2, Safran expressed enthusiasm for Reeves’ vision, saying, "We love Reeves’ vision for The Batman Part 2, and we're looking forward to this film as much as you are." Although Reeves has yet to submit a script, Safran found the material read so far to be "very encouraging."

As for The Brave and the Bold, it's in "very active development" with the story "coming together very nicely." While Andy Muschietti was previously linked to direct, Gunn and Safran are still developing the script and will present it to him when it's ready. "I'm very, very actively involved in that script," Gunn affirmed. Safran promised more details on The Brave and the Bold would be revealed "very soon."

Last year, The Batman Part 2 was delayed to October 1, 2027, marking a five-year gap between the first film and its sequel. When asked about a potential release window for The Brave and the Bold, Safran cryptically noted, "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 await The Brave and the Bold to see Gunn's Batman, Episode 6 of Creature Commandos provided a brief glimpse of Batman, showing him on a rooftop observing crime boss Doctor Phosphorus. This image, credited to Max, portrayed a robust Batman in his iconic costume. Gunn explained to Rotten Tomatoes TV that he requested a more silhouetted appearance to keep the details minimal, indicating that Batman is already established and well-known within the DCU during the events of Creature Commandos and this year’s Superman movie.

Gunn also hinted at future collaborations, stating, "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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