A Marvel Cinematic Universe villain actor wants to play Batman in The Brave and The Bold in the DC Universe. While the DCU’s Chapter 1: “Gods and Monsters” has introduced its new Superman, through David Corenswet, there are several more Justice League heroes being reimagined in James Gunn’s superhero franchise.
While The Batman universe will continue through the Elseworlds umbrella, there will be a new Bruce Wayne for DC Studios’ main continuity, as a reboot is currently being worked on for him. As many are wondering who will be cast as the next Caped Crusader, several actors have made it clear that they want a chance at the gig.
In a new interview with Collider, Ben Barnes opened up about his own superhero passion, with Batman being one of his favorite characters growing up. During the interview, the actor revealed that he would love to portray the Dark Knight, as he stated the following:
Ben Barnes: I was actually watching some— my parents just visited me, and they bought some like little kid videos, and we were watching some old family videos. And in every single one, I was dressed like Batman or Robin Hood. I think there may have been a Spider-Man one, but it was mainly Batman. So obviously, I was, from age 4 and up, I obviously requested that. Hey, I accept. […] Just call me, I’ve got Bruce Wayne ready to go.
Barnes portrayed Billy Russo, a.k.a. Jigsaw, in the MCU TV show, The Punisher, starring Jon Bernthal as Frank Castle, on Netflix. In the second season of the Marvel drama, Frank ends up killing Jigsaw, ending the actor’s time in the franchise.
Given the significance of Batman in Hollywood, it’s not shocking that Barnes is another star who wants a chance to play this popular character. Whoever ends up playing Bruce will not just have The Brave and The Bold movie to headline, but years of opportunity to portray him in other DCU projects down the line.
However, it’s crucial to remember that the DC casting process hasn’t started yet for the Gotham City crime fighter, as the script is still being written and developed. Even though Gunn has shared that he has actors in mind, no one will be tapped until they have finalized the screenplay for the film.
Knowing what a talented actor he is, it would be fascinating to see what Barnes could bring to the table if he ends up being cast as the DC legend. While more DC movies are still being added to the slate, The Brave and The Bold will become one of the most highly anticipated projects once the casting process starts.
Even though the movie does not have a release date yet, the script is seemingly going in the right direction based on Gunn’s recent comments. Hopefully, it won’t be long until The Brave and The Bold finalizes the screenplay so that DC Studios can start looking for their new Batman.