James Gunn Denies Jensen Ackles as DCU Batman Amid Ongoing Fan Speculation

Casting choices for Batman in the DCU have sparked significant discussion among fans, especially since James Gunn and Peter Safran unveiled their plans. Each hint on social media is scrutinized as a potential clue regarding the iconic role.

Jensen Ackles, known for his role in ‘Supernatural’, has frequently been mentioned by fans as a top choice. He has lent his voice to Batman in animated features like ‘Batman: The Long Halloween‘ and ‘Justice League: Crisis on Infinite Earths’. Additionally, Misha Collins revealed that Ackles was close to playing Batman in The CW’s ‘Gotham Knights’, but scheduling conflicts prevented it.

This background fueled the rapid spread of rumors over the weekend, particularly after James Gunn addressed the speculation surrounding Ackles’ casting. On Threads on October 4, the DC Studios co-CEO clarified that the studio has not cast Ackles in any capacity.

Several fan accounts on X noted that Ackles began following Gunn on Instagram on October 3. This led to claims that he had been cast in an unspecified DCU role, which quickly escalated. Some users even suggested that Ackles changed his Instagram profile picture to a Batman icon following the follow.

Gunn responded directly to the rumors, mentioning that he met Ackles only once about two decades ago when the actor was dating a friend of his, describing him as a nice guy.

The follow wasn’t entirely baseless, as several actors have followed Gunn on Instagram before landing roles in the DCU and other major projects. For instance, Grant Gustin followed Gunn, which led to similar speculation, but he ultimately did not secure a role in the franchise.

This marks the second casting rumor Gunn has dismissed in about a week, having previously responded with a “No” to speculation regarding Matthew Lillard potentially playing the Flash in ‘Man of Tomorrow’. In July, he also refuted claims that DC Studios had secretly cast its Batman.

‘The Brave and the Bold’, directed by Andy Muschietti, is set to explore the relationship between Bruce Wayne and his son, Damian. No lead actor has been confirmed yet, and Gunn has reiterated that casting will not commence until the screenplay is finalized.

Gunn mentioned that a writer is currently working on the script, which he believes is promising, but it was not complete at the time of his comments. Muschietti has acknowledged seeing fan casting suggestions, calling them “curious,” according to SuperHeroHype. Gunn has also denied any reports suggesting that the project is on hold.

Ackles has expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating at a convention in Italy that while he wouldn’t disclose anything if he knew, he would be eager to take on the part. He humorously noted he would be upset if Pedro Pascal were to secure the role.

While Gunn hasn’t ruled out Ackles for future roles, it leaves the possibility open for future announcements, even if nothing is confirmed at this time.

In September 2025, Gunn mentioned knowing a prominent actor interested in playing Batman, though he did not reveal any names. Since then, speculation has continued, with actors like Alan Ritchson and Brandon Sklenar also showing interest in the role.

With ‘The Brave and the Bold’ still awaiting a completed script, an announcement regarding Batman may be a while off. Currently, the DCU has no confirmed Caped Crusader, leaving Ackles outside the franchise for now.

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