Alan Ritchson Confirms Deep Talks for a "Messier" Role in James Gunn's DC Universe

Forget the clean-cut heroes; Alan Ritchson, known for his imposing presence in Reacher, is in serious discussions with DC Studios, and he's got a clear vision: he wants to get his hands dirty with a more complex character.

TL;DR: The Latest Buzz on Alan Ritchson and the DCU

• Alan Ritchson confirms he's actively in talks with James Gunn's DC Studios for a role in the new DC Universe.
• He explicitly stated his desire to play "somebody a little messier" and "dirtier than your typical clean-cut protagonist."
• While a fan-favorite for Batman, Ritchson himself doesn't believe the Dark Knight is in his immediate DCU future, despite prior "words exchanged" with Gunn.

Stepping into the Shadows: Alan Ritchson's "Messier" DC Universe Vision Unveiled

Imagine a superhero landscape where the lines between good and bad blur, where protagonists aren't always polished, and their methods are, well, a bit rough around the edges. This is precisely the kind of world actor Alan Ritchson is pitching to James Gunn and Peter Safran for his potential entry into the new DC Universe.

The star of Prime Video's hit series Reacher recently confirmed he's been in discussions with DC Studios. But here's the kicker: he's not looking to reprise a squeaky-clean hero. Instead, Ritchson expressed a keen interest in tackling a character with more depth and moral ambiguity. He revealed, "I want to play somebody a little messier. And I told them, I said, if I'm going to do this, I described to them the kind of personality that I'd want to play and what that would mean to their world, and I think it's something everybody wants to see right now over there." He elaborated, "So yes, I want to play somebody a little dirtier than your typical clean-cut protagonist." Source: ScreenRant, "Alan Ritchson Confirms He's in Talks With DC Studios for a 'Messier' Role", published November 8, 2025 (in context of Playdate promotion).

A Long and Winding Road Through DC Comics Adaptations

This isn't Ritchson's first rodeo with DC Comics properties. Long before commanding screens as Jack Reacher, he made history as the first actor to bring Arthur Curry, A.K.A. Aquaman, to live-action television in Smallville season 5. He later took on the grittier role of Hank Hall, or Hawk, in the live-action Titans TV series, appearing from season 1 through 3 before his character was killed off. His established presence in the DC multiverse underscores his appeal to fans and, seemingly, to DC Studios itself.

DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn has openly voiced his admiration for Ritchson. In a July 2024 interview on the Happy, Sad, Confused podcast with Josh Horowitz, Gunn stated, "I am a big Alan Ritchson fan, both as an actor and as a guy. Let's just wait to see what happens." This public endorsement from one of the architects of the new DCU certainly adds weight to the ongoing discussions and suggests a strong mutual interest. Source: Josh Horowitz on the Happy, Sad, Confused podcast, July 2024.

"Yeah. Yes. That's the conversation that I've been having with them is like, 'I want to play somebody a little messier.' And I told them, I said, if I'm going to do this, I described to them the kind of personality that I'd want to play and what that would mean to their world, and I think it's something everybody wants to see right now over there. So yes, I want to play somebody a little dirtier than your typical clean-cut protagonist."

— Alan Ritchson, on his DCU ambitions

The Dark Knight Deliberation: Why Batman Might Not Be the Destination

For months, fan-casting lists have consistently placed Ritchson at the top for the role of Batman in the upcoming The Brave and the Bold movie. His imposing physique, intense screen presence, and experience with action roles make him a natural fit in many fans' eyes. However, Ritchson himself has pumped the brakes on this particular dream. In an August 2025 interview with Variety, he acknowledged that "Words have been exchanged about Batman" with Gunn, but firmly added, "I strongly don't think that Batman is in my future. I do think there is something in my future with DC. And I would like that to remain true." Source: Variety interview, August 2025.

This creates an interesting counterpoint: a highly vocal fan base champions him for a role, while the actor himself suggests it's unlikely. One possible reason for this divergence could be the DCU's own timeline. The Brave and the Bold is expected to debut sometime after The Batman Part II, which is slated for October 2027, potentially pushing the DCU's Batman debut to 2028 or later. Ritchson might be eager to jump into the DCU sooner, or perhaps Gunn's specific vision for the character simply doesn't align with what Ritchson hopes to explore. For instance, while Gunn has described Batman as a "fing maniac" – a phrase that suggests a raw, intense character – the DCU has also integrated Batman's no-kill rule into its canon. This foundational rule might limit how truly "dirty" and "messy" the character can become, perhaps not reaching the level of moral complexity Ritchson desires.

Exploring the "Messy" Spectrum: Beyond the Traditional Heroes

So, if not Batman, what kind of "messier" role could Ritchson be eyeing? The concept of a "dirtier" protagonist or an anti-hero has proven incredibly popular with audiences recently. Think of characters like Marvel's Deadpool or even DC's own Peacemaker, who, despite their questionable methods, resonate deeply with viewers due to their layered personalities and willingness to operate outside conventional heroic norms. Shows like The Boys have also demonstrated a strong appetite for superhero stories that delve into morally gray areas.

For example, if Ritchson were to embody a character like Slade Wilson, also known as Deathstroke, he could explore the nuanced motivations of a former military operative turned deadliest assassin. This role would allow him to portray the physical prowess he's known for, combined with the moral compromises and complex past that define an anti-hero. The internal conflict of such a character – perhaps struggling with past actions while fighting for a twisted sense of justice – fits perfectly with Ritchson's stated desire for a "messier" personality.

Intriguing Candidates for a Complex DC Universe Role

Given Ritchson's preference for a character that isn't a "typical clean-cut protagonist," a range of existing DC characters come to mind, many of whom are known for their morally ambiguous nature or villainous turns. It's worth noting these are speculative fan suggestions and possibilities floated in various articles, not confirmed targets:

• Bane: A physically formidable and intellectually brilliant super-criminal, Bane's origins in a harsh prison environment and his strategic mind could offer a compellingly "messy" character. He's an antagonist, but one with a deeply personal, driven narrative.
• Deathstroke (Slade Wilson): As mentioned, the deadliest assassin in the DC universe, Deathstroke operates in shades of gray. His super-soldier serum-enhanced abilities and mercenary background would perfectly suit Ritchson's action capabilities and desire for a character who isn't strictly heroic.
• Lobo: An intergalactic bounty hunter, Lobo is known for his extreme violence, irreverent attitude, and chaotic neutrality. He's definitely not "clean-cut" and would offer Ritchson a chance to embrace a truly wild, unconventional role.
• Hawkman: While often a hero, Hawkman's complex history, frequent reincarnations, and sometimes brutal methods of justice could allow for a "messier" interpretation, particularly if exploring his more ancient, warrior-like aspects.
• Wildcat (Ted Grant): A street-level vigilante with a boxing background, Wildcat is tough, gruff, and unafraid to bend rules. His morally flexible approach to crime-fighting could align with Ritchson's vision.
• Midnighter: Known for his brutal efficiency and willingness to use lethal force, Midnighter is a character whose methods are undeniably "messy" even if his intentions are often heroic.
• Azrael (Jean-Paul Valley): A character with a fractured psyche and a violent "System" instilled in him, Azrael briefly took over as Batman and his tenure was marked by extreme and often brutal justice, making him a truly "dirty" anti-hero.
• Cyborg Superman (Hank Henshaw): A villainous character with a tragic origin, Henshaw's transformation into a cyborg replica of Superman driven by vengeance offers a dark, complex antagonist role.
• Mongul: A powerful alien tyrant, Mongul is a formidable adversary known for his gladiatorial arenas and vast power. Playing such a dominant, evil figure would be a definitive departure from Ritchson's previous DC roles.
• Kalibak: Darkseid's firstborn, Kalibak is a brute known for his ferocity and loyalty to his tyrannical father. This role would emphasize physical power and a dark, imposing presence.

Any of these roles, from an anti-hero to a full-blown villain, could provide Ritchson the opportunity to sink his teeth into the kind of "dirty" and "messy" character he's so clearly passionate about.

What's Next for Alan Ritchson and the DC Universe?

While we await official announcements from James Gunn and DC Studios, fans can catch Alan Ritchson in his upcoming action-comedy Playdate, where he stars alongside Kevin James. The movie is set to debut on Prime Video on November 12, 2025. Source: Collider, "Alan Ritchson Confirms He's in Talks With DC Studios for a ‘Messier’ Role", published November 9, 2025.

The DC Universe, currently in its "Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters" phase, has several projects on the horizon. HBO's Lanterns TV show is eying an early 2026 premiere, with Supergirl and Clayface slated for June 26 and September 11, 2026, respectively. The highly anticipated Superman film (previously known as Man of Tomorrow) is set to begin shooting early next year. Any of these projects, or future unannounced ones, could be the perfect landing spot for Ritchson's "messier" ambitions, whether he debuts in a TV show or a feature film.

Practical Takeaways for DCU Fans and Moviegoers

• Keep an Eye on Official Announcements: While Ritchson's confirmed talks are exciting, the specific role is still under wraps. Stay tuned to official DC Studios channels for concrete news.
• Expect More Complex Characters: Ritchson's desire for a "messier" role aligns with a growing trend in superhero narratives that explore morally ambiguous figures, suggesting a richer, more nuanced DCU.
• Don't Rule Out Unexpected Castings: James Gunn is known for surprising choices. Ritchson's casting, whatever the role, could be a pivotal one for the new universe.
• Catch Ritchson's Latest Work: While waiting for DCU news, enjoy Alan Ritchson's performance in his upcoming film Playdate, premiering November 12, 2025, on Prime Video.

FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered About Alan Ritchson and the DCU

When is Alan Ritchson's next movie, Playdate, coming out?

Alan Ritchson's next movie, an action-comedy titled Playdate co-starring Kevin James, is scheduled to premiere on Prime Video on November 12, 2025.

What DC characters has Alan Ritchson played before?

Alan Ritchson has played Aquaman (Arthur Curry) in Smallville season 5 and Hawk (Hank Hall) in the live-action Titans TV show from season 1 through 3.

Is Alan Ritchson going to play Batman in James Gunn's DCU?

While Alan Ritchson is a popular fan-favorite for Batman and has discussed the role with James Gunn, he has stated, "I strongly don't think that Batman is in my future." He is, however, in talks for another role within the DC Universe.

What kind of role does Alan Ritchson want in the DCU?

Alan Ritchson has clearly expressed his desire to play "somebody a little messier" and "dirtier than your typical clean-cut protagonist" in the DC Universe, indicating an interest in a morally complex or anti-hero type of character.

Sources

• ScreenRant, "Alan Ritchson Confirms He's in Talks With DC Studios for a 'Messier' Role", November 8, 2025 (context of Playdate promotion).
• Variety interview, August 2025.
• Josh Horowitz on the Happy, Sad, Confused podcast, July 2024.
• Collider, "Alan Ritchson Confirms He's in Talks With DC Studios for a ‘Messier’ Role", November 9, 2025.
• MovieWeb, "Alan Ritchson Could Be Playing a Hero or Villain in the DCU", November 9, 2025.
• Dark Horizons, "Alan Ritchson Eyeing A "Messier" DC Role", November 12, 2025.
• ComicBook.com, "Alan Ritchson Sheds More Light on What Kind of DCU Role He Wants to Play", November 8, 2025.