Former Superman star Henry Cavill suits up as Batman in stunning image

Henry Cavill’s time as Superman has come to an end, but it’s not hard to see why fans want to see him play Batman next in James Gunn’s new Batman film.

Batman is one of the most iconic and beloved characters in comic book history, and his impact on the big screen has been undeniable. Since the release of Tim Burton’s Batman in 1989, the Dark Knight has appeared in numerous films, each leaving its mark on pop culture.

One of Batman’s biggest legacies on the big screen is the way he’s been interpreted and reinterpreted by different filmmakers. From Burton’s gothic take on Gotham City to Christopher Nolan’s gritty realism, Batman has been presented in many different styles over the years, allowing for new and innovative takes on the character.

The success of Burton’s Batman paved the way for the superhero blockbuster, while Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy raised the bar for what superhero films could achieve in terms of storytelling and cinematic technique.

Just last year, a new Batman finally emerged with the release of Matt Reeves’ The Batman, which saw Robert Pattinson suiting up as the Caped Crusader. Pattinson’s turn as Batman was met with both critical and fan praise and a sequel is already in the works. Perhaps, that’s why it’s so interesting that DC Studios’ new bosses James Gunn and Peter Safran are already looking to bring in a new Batman to lead their connected DC Cinematic Universe.

Is Robert Pattinson being replaced as Batman?

If you were a fan of Robert Pattinson’s Batman, you’ll be relieved to know Pattinson is not being replaced and will be returning for the sequel to Matt Reeves’ The Batman. Reeves’ Batman universe will remain a separate entity within the broader DC Studios plans with the films and any spinoff projects, including The Penguin series in development starring Colin Farrell, will be set in what is being called the DC Elseworlds franchise. These will be films set outside of the connected DC Cinematic Universe.

With Reeves’ Batman films set to continue on via the Elseworlds banner, Gunn and Safran will look to bring in a new Caped Crusader set to make their debut in Batman: The Bold and the Brave. 

Since the announcement has been made, there has been a lot of speculation about who DC should consider for the role of Batman in the new DC Cinematic Universe. One name who has emerged as a contender among fans is a man who is no stranger to playing an iconic DC: Henry Cavill.

What Henry Cavill could look like as Batman

Inspired by rumors of the active conversations between James Gunn and Henry Cavill, digital artist BFHDesign has unveiled a stunning new piece of concept art that imagines Cavill in the role of the Caped Crusader.

“So apparently James Gunn and Henry Cavill are discussing other roles Henry could potentially play in the DCU and I think he would make a great Batman,” BFHDesign explains in introducing the art to his followers.

In the jaw-dropping art, Cavill trades in Superman’s cape for Batman’s cowl in a look that is truly incredible. Drawing inspiration from an Alex Ross blue and grey suit, Cavill is transformed into the Dark Knight in a piece of concept art that makes a strong and compelling argument for why Cavill should be in consideration for Batman: The Brave and the Bold.

Has James Gunn discussed DC roles with Henry Cavill?

Although James Gunn has revealed Henry Cavill will not be returning to reprise his role as Superman in the new slate of DC films, he has been clear he’s not opposed to working with Cavill in the future. In fact, Gunn has revealed that he’s had discussions with Cavill about finding a new role for him

From the moment word broke via Gunn’s Twitter that Cavill would not be back as Superman, the new co-chairmen and co-CEOs of DC Studios made it clear he hopes to work with Cavill in the future.

“We just had a great meeting with Henry and we’re big fans and we talked about a number of exciting possibilities to work together in the future,” Gunn shared at the time. He’s since followed up on his comments telling one fan on Twitter that he’s discussed other roles with Cavill, which seems to hint he has the desire to bring Cavill back into the fold.

Gunn has been careful not to reveal any details about the roles he’s discussed with Cavill, so it’s unclear what characters might have come up. Given how vast the DC Comics character catalog is, there’s no telling which characters might have come up during Gunn’s conversation with Cavill.

It’s entirely possible Batman could have come up during the pair’s conversation; however, we have to admit it might be hard for audiences to see Cavill going from playing one of DC’s most iconic characters to another even more iconic character.