As DC Studios gears up for its Batman reboot, The Brave and the Bold, co-CEO James Gunn addressed speculation on August 28, 2025, denying rumors that Marvel star Chris Pratt would play the Caped Crusader. Gunn, steering the DC Universe (DCU), and Pratt, known for Guardians of the Galaxy, were linked to the project. The film introduces an older Bruce Wayne and his son Damian. Set for a global release, directed by Andy Muschietti. No release date is set, but it’s in active development for 2025. Gunn’s clarification refocuses attention on the film’s script-driven vision.
Debunking the Pratt Casting Rumor
On August 28, 2025, James Gunn, in an interview with PelucheEn ElEstuche, firmly denied rumors that Chris Pratt, his Guardians of the Galaxy star, would portray Batman in The Brave and the Bold, stating, “As Batman? No. As something else? Yes,” hinting at a different DCU role for Pratt. The rumor, fueled by Pratt’s Star-Lord success and fan speculation on X, was quashed after gaining traction.
The Vision for The Brave and the Bold
Announced in January 2023 as part of DCU’s Chapter 1: “Gods and Monsters,” The Brave and the Bold will introduce a veteran Batman alongside his son, Damian Wayne, inspired by Grant Morrison’s Batman & Son arc. Directed by Andy Muschietti (The Flash), the film explores fatherhood and legacy, distinct from Matt Reeves’ The Batman Part II (October 2027), which stars Robert Pattinson under the DC Elseworlds banner. Gunn stressed to Rolling Stone that the DCU Batman must have a unique purpose, avoiding a “campy” tone.
Script First, Casting Later
Gunn reiterated that no casting will proceed until the screenplay, still in development, is finalized, per reports. This approach, prioritizing story over premature casting, aligns with his updates on X, where he noted The Brave and the Bold is progressing well alongside Wonder Woman and Booster Gold. While actors like Winston Duke and Alan Ritchson have expressed interest, no decisions have been made. The DCU Batman, likely in his mid-30s to 40s to match Damian’s age, remains uncast.
-By Manoj H