James Gunn, the co-CEO of DC Studios, has recently been tuning into the series 1923, a prequel to the popular Yellowstone. This has sparked speculation about whether Brandon Sklenar, who plays Spencer Dutton in the show, might be in line to don the cape and cowl as Batman in the DC Universe. Sklenar himself has expressed that portraying the iconic Dark Knight has been a lifelong aspiration for him, describing it as a "childhood dream" (https://www.joblo.com/brandon-sklenar-batman/).
But here's where it gets interesting: while some fans are jumping to conclusions that Gunn is scouting for Batman talent, he clarified in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter (https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-features/james-gunn-peacemaker-batman-interview-1236387190/) that his interest in 1923 is purely for enjoyment. "I’m watching [1923] because I like Taylor Sheridan’s work, especially this series. It’s my favorite of all his shows," Gunn explained. He emphasized that his viewing is not a search for a new Batman, although he did express admiration for Sklenar, stating, "I think he’s great. I really do. I honestly think he’s great."
While Sklenar may not be on Gunn's immediate radar for the role of Batman, another actress from 1923 has caught his attention. Gunn mentioned, "I really like the young woman [Julia Schlaepfer] in 1923. She is just so fantastic that I suggested her for something recently." Schlaepfer plays Sklenar's significant other in the series, but whether this "something" pertains to a project within the DC Universe remains uncertain.
Looking ahead, Batman is slated to appear in the upcoming film The Brave and the Bold. Although there hasn't been significant progress on the project since Andy Muschietti was announced as the director (https://www.joblo.com/andy-muschietti-batman-movie/), Gunn recently provided an encouraging update (https://www.joblo.com/the-brave-and-the-bold-james-gunn-update/), stating, "I think we have a really, really good story now for what’s happening with Batman."
Gunn also revealed that he has a list of potential actors for the Batman role. "I have guys I like," he noted. "I have guys that are at the top of the list. One actor in particular… a pretty big star, wants to be Batman. We’ve talked about it, but I don’t think that’s the case." Alongside Sklenar, other fan-favorite candidates for the role include Alan Ritchson (known for Jack Reacher) and Jensen Ackles (from The Boys) (https://www.joblo.com/jensen-ackles-batman-the-brave-and-the-bold/).
So, what do you think? Would you be excited to see Brandon Sklenar take on the role of Batman in the DC Universe? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
