RUMOR: Could The Joker Have A Role To Play In Joss Whedon’s Batgirl Spinoff?

Josh Gad knows a thing or two about keeping the Internet on tenterhooks.

For weeks, the actor tortured his Murder on the Orient Express co-star Daisy Ridley about all things Star Wars: The Last Jedi – the meaning behind the evocative title, Rey’s parentage…you name it – and was even present at April’s Star Wars Celebration to place Ridley under the spotlight once more. Meanwhile, in the realm of comic book movies, Josh Gad has been recently linked with the role of Penguin in Warner’s DC Extended Universe, leading many to believe that Oswald Chesterfield Cobblepot would crop up in Matt Reeves’ solo Batman movie. And though that may still be true, the latest deluge of DC-related tidbits suggests that the Penguin has been earmarked for a part in Joss Whedon’s Batgirl spinoff.

Much like this morning’s rumor regarding the Caped Crusader and his purportedly harrowing return trip to Gotham City in a post-Justice League world, this speculative tidbit was unearthed via 4chan, and should therefore be approached with a heightened degree of skepticism. But until we hear any official word from Warner and/or Joss Whedon, let’s indulge in some speculation, shall we?

As some of Hollywood’s fiercest leading ladies begin lobbying for a role in Whedon’s Batgirl movie – for the record, Baywatch star Priyanka Chopra is the latest to toss her name in the hat – there’s no question that the wheels are beginning to ache into motion. But when you consider that Whedon is busy shepherding Justice League over the finish line, it’ll surely be some time yet before we receive any official intel from Warner Bros and DC.

Nevertheless, 4chan’s report alleges that not only will Penguin become the main villain of Barbara Gordon’s story, but that the film will also make room for a Joker flashback scene.

The Batgirl movie will focus on Barbara’s mindset after regaining use of her legs and dealing with the trauma she suffered at the hands of the Joker. A flashback scene with the Joker will be in the film. Penguin will be the main villain.

Batgirl has reportedly been placed on the fast track over at Warner Bros., signalling that Joss Whedon could fire up production in 2018. We will, as always, keep you right up-to-date as more information begins to emerge, so be sure to stay tuned for more.