James Gunn and Peter Safran have confirmed that The Brave and the Bold will introduce a new Batman to the DC Universe (DCU), definitively ruling out Robert Pattinson's portrayal. During a DC Studios presentation, Safran and Gunn clarified that Pattinson will remain exclusive to Matt Reeves' The Batman Epic Crime Saga. Gunn stated unequivocally, "It's certainly not the plan," regarding Pattinson's crossover into the DCU, a sentiment echoed by Safran: "We love him, but we have to introduce a Batman into the DCU. That's imperative. And so that's the plan with The Brave and the Bold."
Earlier speculation about Pattinson's potential DCU-wide role stemmed from Reeves' own comments earlier this year, leaving open the possibility.
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Reeves, speaking to Josh Horowitz at the Golden Globes, emphasized his focus on The Batman Epic Crime Saga, 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." Safran expressed enthusiasm for The Batman Part 2, highlighting that while the script is still in progress, "what we've read so far is very encouraging."
The Brave and the Bold is currently in active development, with the story progressing well. While Andy Muschietti's involvement as director remains uncertain, Safran explained that the script will be shown to him once finalized to assess its suitability. Gunn confirmed his active participation in script development, promising further announcements "very soon."
The previously announced delay of The Batman Part 2 to October 1, 2027, raises questions about The Brave and the Bold's release window. Safran offered only this: "I think we've announced October 2027 there will be a Batman movie. That is all we can tell you right now."
A brief, silhouetted appearance of Batman in Creature Commandos Episode 6 subtly established his pre-existing presence and renown within the DCU, eliminating the need for an origin story. Gunn clarified that the initial design was more detailed than he intended, opting for a more suggestive silhouette. He also hinted at a future team-up between this DCU Batman and Superman, stating, "This is the DCU Batman… 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.”