James Gunn and Peter Safran have officially announced that *The Brave and the Bold* will introduce a new Batman to the DCU, confirming that actor Robert Pattinson will not be reprising his role as the Dark Knight in this new universe. During a DC Studios presentation, which IGN attended, the co-chiefs clarified that Pattinson's Batman will remain exclusive to Matt Reeves' *The Batman Epic Crime Saga*.
"It's certainly not the plan," Gunn stated firmly about the possibility of Pattinson crossing over into the DCU. Safran added, "And 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*."
This announcement puts to rest earlier speculations sparked by Reeves, who had hinted at the possibility of a crossover. Speaking to reporter Josh Horowitz at the Golden Globes, Reeves mentioned, "It really comes down to whether or not it makes sense... What’s been great is there was a story that I wanted to tell with what we’re calling The Epic Crime Saga and all that, which is the thrust of what we want to do."
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Reeves expressed his focus on *The Batman Part 2*, stating, "What the future brings? I can’t really tell you. I have no idea right now except that my head is down now about getting *The Batman Part 2* shooting and to make it something really, really special which, of course, is the most important thing."
Safran expressed enthusiasm for Reeves' vision, saying, "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, the initial drafts are promising.
Meanwhile, *The Brave and the Bold* is in "very active development," with Gunn and Safran deeply involved in crafting the script. They plan to present it to *The Flash* director Andy Muschietti once it's ready, to see if it aligns with his vision. Safran hinted that more details about *The Brave and the Bold* will be revealed soon.
*The Batman Part 2* faced another delay, now set for release on October 1, 2027, marking a five-year gap since Pattinson's debut as Batman. When asked about the potential release window for *The Brave and the Bold*, Safran cryptically responded, "Well, I think we've announced October, 2027 there will be a Batman movie. That is all we can tell you right now."
Fans eager to see Gunn's take on Batman got a glimpse in Episode 6 of *Creature Commandos*, where Batman was shown standing on a rooftop, observing crime boss Doctor Phosphorus. The image, while generic, confirmed Batman's existence and prominence within the DCU. Gunn explained to Rotten Tomatoes TV that he opted for a more silhouetted look to keep details under wraps.
Batman in Creature Commandos. Image credit: Max.
Gunn emphasized that this Batman is already well-known within the DCU, negating the need for an origin story. He also hinted at future collaborations, stating, "This is the DCU Batman... I just love Batman. I love him. I've loved him since I was a little kid. He's one of my favorite characters... I can't wait for people to see more of him, along with Superman, and together."