James Gunn Confirms Changes to DCU Batman Plans Since ‘The Brave and the Bold’ Announcement

Few superhero projects have been anticipated as much as the DCU’s take on the Dark Knight. For years, fans have speculated about the new Batman’s arrival, who would don the cowl, and what story would introduce him. Recently, James Gunn provided a small yet significant update regarding the DCU Batman plans.

When Gunn and Peter Safran revealed their DC slate in January 2023, ‘The Brave and the Bold’ was set to be the introduction of the DCU’s Batman. Gunn described it as the story of Batman and his biological son, Damian Wayne, marking the beginning of the Bat-Family in the DCU. Andy Muschietti, known for directing ‘The Flash,’ was later chosen to helm the project.

After years of anticipation, Gunn stated in late 2024 that there was no established timeline and that the film would not proceed without a script he was completely satisfied with. In January 2026, The Hollywood Reporter revealed that Christina Hodson, who previously wrote ‘The Flash’ and ‘Birds of Prey,’ had been selected to write the script, and Gunn mentioned he was collaborating closely with her.

Fast forward to this week. On Threads, a fan inquired whether the creative plans for the DCU Batman had changed since the announcement of ‘The Brave and the Bold’ in 2023. Gunn simply confirmed that they had, without providing further details on what had shifted.

This exchange occurred just hours after the premiere of ‘Clayface,’ which Gunn described as his favorite premiere in quite some time. It also aligns with earlier hints he provided. Gunn told IGN that he appreciated the direction of the script but noted that many elements were still in flux. When asked about Damian Wayne, he mentioned that some aspects had changed, including details regarding Bruce Wayne’s parentage.

Gunn was questioned about whether Damian remains in the film, and he advised fans to wait and see what unfolds. This leaves a significant question mark over the narrative that initially defined the project. Since the original concept focused on Bruce and his son, any alteration to that dynamic would represent a major shift.

Currently, the film lacks a release date, and no actor has been cast as Batman in the DCU. Reports indicate that work on the project was paused, with Muschietti reportedly informing a filmmaker in August that everything was on hold until the Paramount merger was finalized. Muschietti has also previously stated that the project was delayed.

Gunn has expressed that he does not wish to compete with Matt Reeves’ ‘The Batman Part II,’ which is scheduled for February 18, 2028, although filming is currently on hold due to Reeves addressing a family matter. Safran has assured that there is no scenario where that film will not resume.

Meanwhile, the animated ‘Dynamic Duo’ is also slated for 2028, existing outside the main continuity. This means a DCU Batman movie would have a crowded landscape to navigate, which helps explain why Gunn has been cautious about timing.

Responses to Gunn’s comment indicate that fans have a specific hope for the eventual casting: an actor around the same age as David Corenswet, the DCU’s Superman. This would suggest a Batman capable of anchoring the universe for years, rather than an older, more established figure. Some fans have speculated whether the changes imply that Gunn is taking a more significant creative role himself.

While this remains speculation, Gunn has not clarified who is writing what at this stage. What is evident is that the project has evolved since its initial announcement. The question remains how extensive that evolution is.

For now, the best interpretation is that the DCU Batman is still in development, albeit not in the form originally proposed. Fans will have to wait for more concrete updates, which may not arrive until after ‘The Batman Part II’ resumes and the studio’s other projects clear the path. Until then, a one-word confirmation will have to suffice.

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