In a recent wave of excitement surrounding James Gunn’s reimagined DC Universe (DCU), one name has consistently emerged as a fan-favorite contender for the iconic role of Batman: Alan Ritchson. The towering actor, best known for his commanding presence as the titular character in Amazon Prime’s hit series Reacher, has once again fueled speculation about his potential casting as the Dark Knight. In a candid and enthusiastic statement during a WIRED Autocomplete Interview released on March 6, 2025, Ritchson expressed his unwavering desire to don the cape and cowl, telling DC Studios co-head James Gunn, “You wouldn’t even have to pay me to play Batman in the DCU.” The comment, paired with a playful demonstration of his gravelly “Batman voice,” has reignited discussions among fans and industry insiders alike about whether the 42-year-old star could be the perfect fit for Gunn’s upcoming Batman film, The Brave and the Bold.

Ritchson’s passion for the role is no secret. Over the past year, he has repeatedly voiced his admiration for Batman, a character he describes as one of the coolest in comic book history. His enthusiasm is rooted in a deep personal connection to the Caped Crusader, stemming from childhood memories of watching Batman’s iconic moments unfold on screen. In previous interviews, he’s highlighted the character’s intelligence and resourcefulness as traits that resonate with him, qualities he believes he could bring to life in a fresh and compelling way. This latest declaration, however, takes his campaign to a new level, showcasing not just his interest but his willingness to commit to the role without financial incentive—an unusual stance for a Hollywood star of his caliber.

The timing of Ritchson’s comments couldn’t be more intriguing. Gunn’s DCU is in the midst of a transformative phase, with Superman: Legacy—starring David Corenswet as the Man of Steel—already in production and set to kick off the franchise’s ambitious “Chapter One: Gods and Monsters.” Meanwhile, The Brave and the Bold, which will introduce a veteran Batman mentoring his son Damian Wayne as Robin, remains in early development. Gunn has been vocal about the project’s status, emphasizing that no script has been finalized and no casting decisions have been made. In fact, he’s previously taken to social media to debunk rumors about Ritchson’s involvement, humorously dismissing them with an “LOL, he’s not playing Batman.” Yet, despite Gunn’s clarifications, the rumor mill refuses to quiet down, and Ritchson’s persistent enthusiasm only adds fuel to the fire.

What makes Ritchson such a compelling candidate? For one, his physicality is undeniable. Standing at 6’3” and boasting a muscular build honed through years of action roles, he embodies the imposing figure many associate with Batman. His work in Reacher, where he portrays a sharp-minded, no-nonsense drifter with a knack for solving mysteries, also demonstrates his ability to blend brute strength with subtle intellect—key traits of Bruce Wayne. Beyond Reacher, Ritchson’s superhero credentials are well-established. He’s no stranger to the DC universe, having played Aquaman in Smallville during the 2000s and later taking on the role of Hawk in Titans. These experiences have given him a nuanced understanding of the genre, from lighthearted heroics to gritty vigilantism, making him a versatile contender for Gunn’s vision.

Fans have taken notice, too. Social media platforms like X have been abuzz with support for Ritchson, with many praising his charisma, physical prowess, and genuine passion for the role. Some have even pointed to his performance in Reacher as evidence of his ability to carry a franchise, turning a once-overlooked property into a global phenomenon. Others argue that his relatively lower profile compared to A-list stars could work in his favor, much like Chris Pratt’s casting in Gunn’s Guardians of the Galaxy—a decision that paid off spectacularly. Still, not everyone is convinced. Critics on Reddit and other forums have questioned whether his acting range and vocal tone align with the brooding complexity of Bruce Wayne, though his supporters counter that his dedication and physicality outweigh any perceived shortcomings.

For now, Ritchson’s fate in the DCU remains uncertain. Gunn has made it clear that The Brave and the Bold is still a work in progress, and with no official casting announcements on the horizon, the door remains open for speculation. Whether or not Ritchson ultimately lands the role, his unabashed enthusiasm has endeared him to fans and kept his name in the conversation. As of March 7, 2025, the idea of seeing him patrol the streets of Gotham—potentially for free—continues to captivate imaginations, proving that sometimes, the journey to the Batcave is as thrilling as the destination itself.