Robert Pattinson Approved by Warner Bros. to Play Batman

After casting rumors revealed that actor Robert Pattinson was the frontrunner to portray the role of Bruce Wayne/Batman in the new live-action film from Matt Reeves, it looks like the news is now official. Deadline reports that “Warner Bros. has approved” Pattinson as the new star of the upcoming film The Batman.

According to the report, The Batman would be the first of a planned trilogy of films. Reeves is slated to direct the first one, which is set to begin production “later this year.” Pattinson was said to be the frontrunner for director Reeves. However, the studio was said to be torn between Pattinson and Nicholas Hoult, who appears this month in Dark Phoenix. He also appeared in WB’s Mad Max: Fury Road.

WB reportedly wanted both actors on tape as this was a major decision with the DC franchise at a major crossroads following Ben Affleck’s exit. Ben Affleck was originally going to reprise the role as the Caped Crusader and also direct The Batman before he exited the project, and Reeves took over later on.

The report notes that Hoult was seen as impressive, but Pattinson ultimately seemed to get the nod. One hiccup could be is that it seems while the deal is in place, Pattinson has not completely signed on. The report even states, “negotiations will get underway any moment.” That’s as of Friday, May 31. An announcement should be expected “imminently.”

Robert Pattinson is most known for the Twilight film franchise. His other credits include Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, The Lost City of Z, The Lighthouse, High Life, and he’s also attached to star in the next Christoper Nolan film for Warner Bros.

Pattinson’s deal needs to be work out and would include options for two more films, which is reportedly seen as a formality for the signing process. The new film trilogy would focus on a younger version of Bruce Wayne, which is why Warner Bros. was looking for an actor in his early 30s.

The Batman does not yet have an official release date.