James Gunn and Peter Safran have made it clear that the upcoming DCU project, *The Brave and the Bold*, will introduce a new Batman to the DC Universe, explicitly ruling out Robert Pattinson from reprising his role in this film. During a DC Studios presentation attended by IGN, the co-chiefs confirmed that Pattinson will continue to portray Batman solely within Matt Reeves' *The Batman Epic Crime Saga*.
"It's certainly not the plan," Gunn stated firmly when addressing the possibility of Pattinson crossing over into the broader DCU. Safran echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the necessity of introducing a new Batman for the DCU. "We love him, but we've got to introduce a Batman into the DCU. That's imperative. And so that's the plan with *The Brave and the Bold*," he added.
The speculation about Pattinson potentially playing Batman across the entire DCU stemmed from comments made by Reeves earlier this year. Reeves had hinted at the possibility, saying, "It really comes down to whether or not it makes sense," during an interview with Josh Horowitz at the Golden Globes. However, he also stressed his focus on *The Batman Part 2* and the importance of his vision for *The Epic Crime Saga*.
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Safran expressed enthusiasm for Reeves’ vision for *The Batman Part 2*, stating, "We love Matt's vision for *The Batman Part 2*, and we're looking forward to this film as much as you are." He noted that while Reeves has yet to submit a script, what they have seen so far is promising.
Meanwhile, *The Brave and the Bold* is actively being developed, with Gunn and Safran heavily involved in crafting the script. They plan to present it to *The Flash* director Andy Muschietti to see if it aligns with his vision. "I'm very, very actively involved in that script," Gunn confirmed. Safran hinted that more details about *The Brave and the Bold* would be announced soon.
*The Batman Part 2* faced another delay, now set to release on October 1, 2027, extending the wait to five years since Pattinson first donned the cape. Regarding a release window for *The Brave and the Bold*, Safran remained coy, only stating, "Well, I think we've announced October, 2027 there will be a Batman movie. That is all we can tell you right now."
Fans got a glimpse of Gunn's Batman in Episode 6 of *Creature Commandos*, where he was seen standing on a rooftop, overseeing crime boss Doctor Phosphorus. The image showcased a muscular Batman in his iconic costume, though it was intentionally kept vague. Gunn explained to Rotten Tomatoes TV that he requested a more silhouetted look, as he wasn't ready to reveal more detailed aspects of his Batman at that stage.
This brief appearance of Batman in *Creature Commandos* confirms his existence within the DCU, alongside the upcoming *Superman* movie, and underscores that his origin story will not need to be retold. Gunn also teased a potential collaboration between Batman and Superman in the future, expressing his deep affection for the character: "Listen, I gotta tell you, I just love Batman. I love him. I've loved him since I was a little kid. He's one of my favorite characters... He's the most popular superhero in the world and I can't wait for people to see more of him, along with Superman, and together."
