James Gunn’s Recent Show Of Support For A New DCU Batman Casting Choice Has Me Convinced This Actor Would Be A Perfect Dark Knight

James Gunn has shown support for a DCU casting choice that I think would be perfect to play the franchise’s new Batman. The DCU is undergoing a massive transformation under the leadership of James Gunn and Peter Safran, with a new slate of interconnected films and TV series collectively called Chapter One: Gods and Monsters. This ambitious reboot brings fresh opportunities to reimagine iconic heroes and villains, and at the center of the speculation is the new Batman.

James Gunn’s vision for the DCU emphasizes character depth and storytelling, which makes the casting of Batman a critical decision. Batman is known for bringing a darker edge to superheroes in the DCU timeline and casting the right actor will be essential to the DCU’s future. Batman is expected to debut in the DCU’s The Brave and the Bold.

The excitement surrounding Jonathan Bailey as a potential Batman candidate began with a social media post that went viral on Reddit. A user named Robemilak suggested that Bailey would be a fantastic pick for the DCU, saying that they’re surprised nobody had suggested him for the Dark Knight. The post caught fire among DC fans, generating both excitement and debate. What truly set the rumor mill ablaze, however, was when James Gunn liked the post.

While Gunn didn’t explicitly endorse Bailey as Batman, his social media activity hinted at his openness to the idea. Gunn has previously been vocal about his casting philosophy, emphasizing the importance of picking the right actor for the character rather than relying solely on star power. His engagement with the post has fueled speculation that Bailey is either being considered or that Gunn is at least intrigued by the suggestion.

Jonathan Bailey is known for his standout role as Anthony Bridgerton in Netflix’s Bridgerton. He is a rising star with acting chops, a growing fan base, and an Olivier Award under his belt. His inclusion in Batman casting conversations highlights how Gunn may be looking for actors who bring both charisma and emotional depth to the DCU.

Why Jonathan Bailey Could Be A Great Batman For The DC Universe

Jonathan Bailey brings a unique combination of traits that could make him an exceptional Batman. Known for his ability to portray layered, emotionally complex characters, Bailey has demonstrated his acting range in roles like the brooding and driven Anthony Bridgerton. These qualities align well with Bruce Wayne, who is not just a masked vigilante but also a man wrestling with deep personal trauma and a relentless sense of justice.

Physically, Bailey has the versatility to transform into a convincing Dark Knight. His lean frame is deceptively muscular and his ability to embody grace and precision could harken back to a sleeker, more acrobatic portrayal reminiscent of Batman’s earlier comic book iterations. With proper training and preparation, he could evolve into a formidable physical presence that aligns with the character’s dual nature as both detective and warrior.

Bailey also has an intensity that can bring the necessary gravitas to Batman. His piercing gaze and ability to deliver nuanced performances make him an ideal candidate to tackle the duality of Bruce Wayne and the Dark Knight. Moreover, his experience in period dramas like Bridgerton could lend itself to portraying Bruce’s aristocratic demeanor and the dark, brooding energy that defines Batman’s persona.

How Jonathan Bailey Compares To Other DCU Batman Fan Casting Choices

Jonathan Bailey is not the only actor suggested who could play the next Batman. Fan-favorite suggestions include Jensen Ackles, Richard Madden, and Nicholas Hoult, all of whom bring unique strengths to the table. Comparing Bailey to these choices highlights what sets him apart and where he might face challenges.

Jensen Ackles, for instance, has already voiced Batman in numerous animated projects like Batman: The Long Halloween. Ackles was lauded for his performance in each of these, leading many to call for his live-action casting. His familiarity with the character and extensive experience playing heroic roles in Supernatural makes him a strong contender. However, casting Ackles could risk feeling predictable, given his well-established association with genre television. Bailey, by contrast, represents a fresher and less conventional choice, which could resonate with Gunn’s penchant for taking risks.

Richard Madden, Bailey’s Bridgerton co-star, has also been a popular fan choice. Known for his role in Game of Thrones and his recent Marvel outing in Eternals, Madden carries more mainstream recognition. However, Madden’s polished, heroic aura might lean more toward a Superman-like character, whereas Bailey’s edgier persona aligns better with Batman’s darker tone.

Nicholas Hoult, a versatile actor who has tackled roles in films like Mad Max: Fury Road and The Great, has also been frequently discussed as a Batman candidate. Hoult’s experience with darker, more cerebral characters makes him a strong competitor, but his softer features might make it harder to embody Batman’s commanding presence. Bailey’s sharper, more angular features give him an advantage in this regard, allowing him to naturally exude a sense of intensity and mystery from behind a mask.

Ultimately, Bailey’s relative lack of blockbuster experience could be a double-edged sword. On the one hand, he would bring a sense of freshness and unpredictability to the role, avoiding the baggage of established franchise actors. On the other hand, some might question whether he has the star power to carry a tentpole DCU project. However, Gunn’s emphasis on character-driven storytelling suggests that an actor’s ability to inhabit the role is more important than their level of fame.

Who Else Jonathan Bailey Could Play In The DC Universe

If Jonathan Bailey doesn’t end up donning the cape and cowl, there are plenty of other roles in the DCU where he could shine. His versatility and charisma make him an ideal candidate for a range of characters, both heroic and villainous. One intriguing possibility is Dick Grayson/Nightwing.

As Batman’s former protégé and the leader of the Titans, Nightwing requires an actor who can balance charm, athleticism, and emotional depth. Bailey’s background in character-driven drama could help him convey the complex relationship between Grayson and Bruce Wayne, while his physicality would lend itself to Nightwing’s acrobatic fighting style.

Another strong option is Green Arrow. Oliver Queen’s mix of cocky humor and hardened vigilante grit aligns well with Bailey’s ability to portray layered characters. The role would allow him to bring both levity and seriousness to the DCU, making Green Arrow a standout in Gunn’s interconnected universe.

On the villainous side, Bailey could excel as Hush (Dr. Thomas Elliot), a childhood friend of Bruce Wayne turned bitter enemy. Hush’s deep personal connection to Batman and his intricate schemes would give Bailey the chance to play a complex and psychologically rich antagonist. Regardless, Jonathan Bailey’s potential in the DCU is vast, whether as Batman or another iconic character. His ability to bring depth, charisma, and intensity to his performances positions him as an actor who could thrive in James Gunn’s reimagined DCU.

Source: Robemilak

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