# Is James Gunn Scouting the New Batman from ‘1923’? Here’s the Real Story
When you’re the head of DC Studios, everything you do gets put under a microscope. So, when James Gunn recently mentioned he was watching the *Yellowstone* prequel, *1923*, the internet immediately lit up with theories.
Why all the excitement over a TV show? Well, *1923* stars an actor named Brandon Sklenar, who happens to be a huge fan-favorite to become the next Batman in the DCU. Fans connected the dots, and suddenly a rumor was born: Gunn must be scouting his new Dark Knight!
It’s an easy conclusion to jump to, especially since Sklenar himself has said playing Batman would be a “childhood dream.” But is there any fire to go with all this smoke? Let’s dive in.
## Gunn Shuts Down the Batman Rumors
In a recent interview, James Gunn decided to clear the air. Was he watching *1923* with a casting director’s notebook in hand, picturing Brandon Sklenar in the iconic cowl?
Not exactly.
Gunn explained that he’s simply a big fan of the show’s creator, Taylor Sheridan. He loves Sheridan’s work and considers *1923* his favorite of all his shows. He made it very clear that he’s watching for fun, not because he’s looking for a Batman.
However, he did have high praise for the actor at the center of the rumors. While he isn’t considering him for Batman, Gunn said he thinks Brandon Sklenar is a “great” actor. So, while the door to the Batcave might be closed for now, you never know if another DCU role could be in his future.
## An Unexpected Casting Twist
Here’s where the story gets really interesting. While Gunn wasn’t scouting Sklenar for a role, another actor from *1923* did catch his eye.
Gunn was incredibly impressed with Julia Schlaepfer, who plays Sklenar’s love interest in the series. He called her “fantastic” and revealed that he was so taken with her performance that he has already suggested her for a role in an upcoming project.
Now, he didn’t specify if this was for a DCU movie or something else entirely. But it’s a fascinating twist! The internet was looking at one star, while the man in charge was impressed by another. It just goes to show you that talent can be found anywhere.
## What’s Next for the DCU’s Batman?
So, if it’s not Brandon Sklenar, who will be our next Caped Crusader? The new Batman will officially debut in the upcoming DCU film, *The Brave and the Bold*. The movie is set to be directed by Andy Muschietti, who directed *The Flash*.
Gunn recently gave a promising update, saying they have a “really, really good story” locked in. He also confirmed that he has a list of potential actors he’s interested in. He even shared a little tidbit that a major star has reached out about wanting the role, though it’s unlikely to happen.
Fan castings are still running wild, with popular names like Alan Ritchson (*Reacher*) and Jensen Ackles (*Supernatural*, *The Boys*) frequently topping the lists. For now, we’ll have to wait and see who Gunn and his team ultimately choose.
While the *1923* theory didn’t pan out the way some fans hoped, it gave us a fun peek behind the curtain of the DCU’s creative process.
Who do you think should be the next Batman in *The Brave and the Bold*? Share your top picks in the comments below