Joe Manganiello reveals Ben Affleck's scrapped Batman movie would have been brutal

Joe Manganiello is spilling details on the Batman movie that never was. According to Variety, the actor's new memoir says Ben Affleck's canceled film would have seen Deathstroke systematically destroy Batman's world, ending with a major character death.

Manganiello wrote that Affleck described the project as a superhero take on the thriller 'The Game'. The plot would have involved Deathstroke targeting Bruce Wayne after being led to believe Batman killed his son. The actor says the story was set to conclude with a final battle across Gotham City and the death of Commissioner Gordon.

Per the memoir, Manganiello expressed enthusiasm for Affleck's vision, praising the director's previous work and calling the concept a prestige-level superhero film. Affleck reportedly assured the actor he was in good hands despite juggling writing, directing, producing, and starring roles.

In a separate interview covered by /Film, Manganiello detailed other scrapped plans for his Deathstroke. He revealed Warner Bros. considered him for projects including 'Aquaman 2', multiple versions of 'Suicide Squad 2', and a standalone film from director Gareth Evans. One idea even pitched a matchup against Will Smith's Deadshot.

The actor reflected that while he felt unlucky at the time, the role ultimately motivated him to get into peak physical shape. He believes that preparation may have helped him survive a serious health crisis that required major surgery.

All these Deathstroke plans evaporated as the DCEU shifted direction. A new DC Universe film featuring the character is now in development, but Manganiello is not expected to be involved.