All summer long, Justice League was dogged by allegations that Ben Affleck was weighing up his future as the Caped Crusader.
Back then, ardent Batfleck supporters brushed aside any and all claims on the belief that they were manufactured hit-pieces designed to stir up controversy. The ensuing ‘will he, won’t he?’ saga gripped the Internet for months, but on the eve of Justice League‘s theatrical debut, it now looks certain that Ben Affleck is headed for the exit door.
It all started when Affleck himself cast doubt on his future within the DC Extended Universe two weeks ago, leading many to conclude that Matt Reeves was ready to cast another Hollywood A-lister in time for The Batman. Fast forward to now, and with reports suggesting that Jake Gyllenhaal is high on Reeves’ radar, Rob Keyes of Screen Rant has offered a little context to the whole situation.
Essentially, Warner Bros. has allegedly been bracing for the inevitable changeover for some time, as Matt Reeves is said to be plotting a whole new trilogy built around Gotham’s Dark Knight. Should that hold true, The Batman may herald the introduction of the ninth Bruce Wayne, who will seemingly supplant Ben Affleck for all future DC projects – Justice League 2 included.
Via Twitter:
Ben Affleck won't be in Matt Reeves' Batman movie(s). Reeves doesn't want him. I don't know the plans for #JusticeLeague sequel but don't be surprised if the age of Batfleck is over. THR was right long ago and reports aren't just "rumors" or speculation. pic.twitter.com/xoffNnRDN6
— Rob Keyes (@rob_keyes) November 16, 2017
Superhero roles have been recast before, of course – just look at Marvel’s decision to replace Terrence Howard with Don Cheadle in time for Iron Man 2 – but none quite on this level. And unless Ben Affleck’s Batman is scheduled to appear in Aquaman late next year, the actor will bow out after only three appearances in the cape and cowl: Dawn of Justice, Suicide Squad and the imminent Justice League.
How this all shakes out will be told in time, but for now, Warner’s sole focus will be ensuring Justice League‘s opening weekend bests Thor: Ragnarok, otherwise DC’s A team threatens to be overshadowed by Marvel’s underdog. The Batman, meanwhile, is still targeting a production start mid-way through 2018.
