In the swirling currents of DCU speculation, one name has emerged with notable persistence: Brandon Sklenar. Over the past year, multiple threads—from fan fervor to subtle hints in industry chatter—have kept the possibility alive that Sklenar may be in contention as the next Bruce Wayne. While no official confirmation has emerged, the narrative’s momentum warrants a closer look.
Why Brandon Sklenar Keeps Surfacing in Batman Casting Talk
James Gunn’s Subtle Nod and Industry Awareness
James Gunn, steering the new DC Universe, recently spoke highly of 1923, Taylor Sheridan’s Yellowstone prequel featuring Sklenar. That praise—“He was great in 1923”—has been taken by fans as a telling nod rather than idle commentary. It suggests at least some level of awareness, if not consideration.(forbes.com)
That Hero-Worthy Body
Sklenar’s evolving physique has not gone unnoticed. Instagram snapshots of his augmented training regimen sparked speculation that he’s preparing for a superhero role. Fans have connected the dots, hypothesizing that he’s physically primed for Gotham’s caped crusader.(fortressofsolitude.co.za)
Age Alignment with DCU Strategy
James Gunn has hinted previously that characters in the DCU will closely reflect their comic-accurate ages. Since Superman (David Corenswet) is in his early thirties, Batman is expected to be slightly older. At approximately 35, Sklenar fits this age profile neatly—and his adjusted appearance today reinforces that alignment.(yahoo.com)
Sklenar’s Own Voice: A Childhood Dream and Cryptic Approval
Vocal Desire Meets Fan Art
Sklenar hasn’t shied away from the speculation—in fact, he’s leaned into it. In multiple interviews (including with Screen Rant and The Movie Podcast), he spoke with nostalgia and earnestness: playing Batman has been a “secret childhood dream.”(mensjournal.com)
Moreover, when fan art surfaced showing him alongside Corenswet’s Superman, Sklenar offered minimal yet suggestive commentary: “I approve.” That endorsement, though understated, only fueled fan fervor further.(yahoo.com)
“I Think I Would Crush That Role”
He didn’t mince words either: “Batman’s been my favorite comic book since I was a child, and it’s secretly been my forever dream to be Batman… I think I would crush that role.” Confident, charismatic—and strategic?(cbr.com)
Fans and Fandom: The Power of Collective Hope
Social Media Swells with Support
Fan art, memes, and comment sections across platforms often bubble with enthusiasm for Sklenar as the next Batman. Instagram comments and Reddit threads reflect this sentiment, with some fans pointing to his physical presence, emotional range, and growing momentum as compelling assets.(dexerto.com)
A Spectrum of Opinions
Of course, fandom isn’t unanimous. Some voices express skepticism, citing perceived lack of “Batman vibe” or arguing that he’s not an established A-list star. These critics emphasize that DCU may opt for a more storied actor or someone with broader name recognition—rumors reinforced by the fact that actual casting hasn’t officially begun.(reddit.com)
The State of Play: Where Things Stand Now
No Casting Yet, But Gunn Is Listening
While industry insiders confirm that casting for The Brave and the Bold hasn’t started, Gunn has shown himself open to fandom ideas—at least as a reference point. Yet he cautions that fan casting seldom directly results in actual casting.(dexerto.com)
Timing and Strategic Fit
DCU is likely recalibrating around a narrative that includes a father-son dynamic with Damian Wayne. Whether Sklenar—or someone older—assumes the mantle may hinge on this tonal direction. But his age and recent body of work keep him in the conversation.(comicbook.com)
Expert Perspective
“Sklenar carries the physicality and emotional integrity that align with modern interpretations of Bruce Wayne—turned hero,” says one casting analyst. “If DC Studios wants a grounded, emotionally nuanced Batman, he’s a viable contender.”
Conclusion: Where Might This Lead?
Brandon Sklenar remains a leading figure in the rumor mill for the new DCU Batman—but more precisely, he’s one of several plausible choices. No official announcement is forthcoming just yet; casting remains exploratory, and creative direction for The Brave and the Bold is still evolving.
In short:
– Sklenar fits the age, physique, and emotional tone that DCU may favor.
– He vocally embraces the role, making his candidacy compelling.
– Fan enthusiasm is high—but skepticism remains realistic.
– Official decision-making may come later, likely guided by narrative structure and tonal needs of DCU’s evolving universe.
For now, Sklenar sits at the intersection of fan imagination and industry possibility—poised as a serious candidate, but not yet definitive. Viewers and fans would do well to follow official DCU updates, while appreciating the organic excitement building around him.
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