James Gunn says DCU Batman casting is close, will be similar age to Superman

DC Studios co-chief James Gunn has given a major update on the search for a new Dark Knight. In a video from the upcoming "The Suicide Squad: Is It Canon?" podcast, Gunn stated that casting the DC Universe's Batman "won't be too long" and "isn't very far away," per Variety. He also shot down rampant rumors, bluntly stating, "We haven't cast yet, by the way - all the people thinking he'll show up in this or that, it's all bullshit."

Gunn shared some key criteria for the role. He emphasized that Batman will be "around the same age" as Superman in his new universe, describing them as "future best pals" and "contemporaries," according to /Film. With Superman actor David Corenswet being 33, this suggests a Batman in his mid-30s is likely.

The director also revealed a distinct philosophy for the casting process. He told the podcast hosts that one thing exciting him is "being able to pick a Batman who's actually the best actor for that role," reports ScreenRant. Gunn contrasted this with his view that "Superman's have always been chosen based on who the best actor for that role is. And for some reason, Batman's are always chosen as movie stars."

He clarified that no potential actor is ruled out, even if they had a small role in a previous DC project like "The Suicide Squad." Gunn said, "If I gave somebody a day role in 'The Suicide Squad' that is going to be the best Batman, I'm not going to rule him out from that," per Variety.

This new Batman will star in the announced film "The Brave and the Bold" and will exist separately from Robert Pattinson's version in Matt Reeves' "The Batman" series. While the character has made a silent, silhouetted cameo in the animated "Creature Commandos," his live-action debut is still to come.