Alan Ritchson’s recent comments on whether he’s playing theDCU’s Batman has made m sure he’d be ideal for another DC hero. Alan Ritchson, renowned for his roles inReacherandSmallville, has been at the center of fervent discussions regarding his potential portrayal of iconic DC superheroes. While many have championed him as a fitting candidate for Batman in the DC Universe, a closer examination suggests that Ritchson’s unique attributes might make him an even more compelling choice for another major DC hero.

The DCU is undergoing a transformative phase, with new leadership under James Gunn and Peter Safran aiming to revitalize its cinematic landscape, beginning withChapter 1: Gods and Monsters. This evolution has sparked widespread speculation about casting choices for beloved characters inthe DCU’s future, notably Batman. Amidst this speculation, Alan Ritchson’s name has frequently emerged as a potential Dark Knight, igniting both support and debate.

A closeup of Alan Ritchson as Jack Reacher in Reacher

Alan Ritchson Literally Cannot Escape The DCU Batman Fancasting Even After James Gunn’s Comments On It

Alan Ritchson seems unable to free himself from a rife fancasting, with many suggesting he should portray the iconic Batman in James Gunn’s DCU reboot. DespiteJames Gunn’s public clarification that Ritchson is not being consideredfor the role of the Dark Knight,these rumors persist. In a recent interview, Ritchson addressed this, expressing his enthusiasm for the character and even jesting that he would don the cape and cowl without compensation:

What’s amazing to me about this rumor of the Batman desire and the zeitgeist, is the fact that James Gunn has personally announced publicly on his Twitter or X or whatever, “LOL, he’s not playing Batman. He is not playing Batman!” And this thing will not die.I get asked every day if I’m playing Batman. Yeah, would I play Batman? Yes. Would I pay handsomely to be Batman? You wouldn’t even have to pay me to be Batman.I would, yeah, I would don the suit. [Said in his Batman voice] “Gotham is mine.” Look at that. I don’t even have to practice. It just comes out naturally.

Robin Williams and Michael Keaton’s Batman

Evidently, Alan Ritchson is primed to don the cape and cowl despite confirmation that he will not. Nevertheless, Ritchson even demonstrated his readiness by delivering an impromptu Batman voice, showcasing his playful engagement with the idea. Impressive as this voice is,Gunn has indeed dismissed the notion that Ritchson will be the DCU’s Batman, but that doesn’t mean he can’t portray a different hero from the DC pantheon.

Alan Ritchson’s Commentary About His Batman Fancasting Shows He’d Be An Even Better Green Arrow

While Ritchson’s physicality and charisma align with the traditional image of Batman, his natural comedic leanings and existing appearance arguably align more closely with another DC hero: Green Arrow. Oliver Queen, the alter ego of Green Arrow, is known for hiswit, charm, and a certain lightheartednessthat complements his vigilante persona. Ritchson’s ability to seamlessly blend intensity with humor makes him a prime candidate for this role.

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Furthermore, Ritchson’s previous portrayals, such as his role as Hawk inTitans, highlight his capacity to embody characters who balance seriousness with a roguish charm –a quintessential trait of Green Arrow. His physical resemblance to the comic book depictions of Oliver Queen, combined with his proven action-hero credentials, strengthens the argument for this casting choice.

Reacher (Alan Ritchson) looking determined in season 3 episode 5

Indeed, Ritchson’s history in the superhero genre proves has is more than capable of portraying such a character. Ritchson has played numerous DC characters, including Aquaman inSmallvilleand Hawkman throughout the CW’s Arrowverse. Theseprove he has the acting chops to join the DCU.

Alan Ritchson Would Be A Perfect DCU Hero Casting, Whether He’s Batman Or Someone Else

Image via Prime Video

Beyond the debate about Batman versus Green Arrow, it’s evident that Alan Ritchsonpossesses the versatility and presence to enrich the DCU’s rosterof heroes. His dedication to embodying complex characters, coupled with his physical prowess and nuanced performances, positions him as an asset to any superhero narrative. As the DCU continues to evolve, integrating actors who bring both depth and relatability to their roles will be crucial.

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Ritchson’s potential inclusion, especially as Green Arrow, could offer audiences a fresh and engaging portrayal that honors the character’s legacy while introducing a dynamic new energy to the franchise. While the allure of seeing Alan Ritchson as Batman persists among fans,his attributes may, in fact, align more harmoniously with the character of Green Arrow. Such casting would not only satisfy the aesthetic and narrative demands of the role but also provide the DCU with a hero who embodies both gravitas and levity – a combination thatAlan Ritchsonis uniquely equipped to deliver.

Cassandra Cane in Birds of Prey, Robin in Lego Batman and Damian Wayne in Merry Little Batman

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