Glen Powell, known for his roles in Hidden Figures and Top Gun: Maverick, has had a change of heart when it comes to the superhero genre. Despite previously being nonchalant about this field, he now eagerly awaits the chance to join the Marvel or DC universe.
Despite receiving praise for his commendable acting in both the action and rom-com genres, Powell hasn’t had the opportunity to play a larger role in the superhero genre. He did appear in The Dark Knight Rises (2012), but it was a cameo. Now, since the breakthrough of such movies due to their recent popularity, the actor is willing to play a superhero. Fans have also been casting Brandon Sklenar for the one role Powell desired: Batman.
The Batman exception: Glen Powell’s love for the DC hero
In an interview with GQ (as per CBR), the Twisters actor revealed that he had no interest in playing a superhero, except for one role. Glen Powell stated he loved the caped crusader’s role, aka Batman, and wouldn’t refuse if it were offered.
I was always a Batman guy.
I would have a wild take on Batman. It definitely would not be like a Matt Reeves tone – it’d probably be closer to Keaton.
The actor assured that his portrayal of the DC hero would be different and closer to Michael Keaton’s Batman (1989). Even though he had no special love for superhero movies, this was one role he wouldn’t turn down.
In 2012, Powell came super close to his wish when he was cast in a small role in Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight Rises. His character met an unfortunate end at the hands of Tom Hardy’s Bane, but the actor still recalls this memory fondly.
Brandon Sklenar’s popularity changed the actor’s mind
Paramount’s 1923 star Brandon Sklenar has been going viral ever since the show, and his new movie It Ends With Us has hit theatres. DC fans have found him to be a perfect choice for portraying James Gunn’s Batman. People on social media have been struck by the actor’s undeniable charm and personality, which they think are reminiscent of Gotham’s hero.
I’ve seen Brandon Sklenar pop up for DCU Batman and I can see why he’s 6’2 and 33 years old which makes him a perfect pairing with David and is a rising star in Hollywood right now he’s on a lot of directors radars after his performance in the Yellowstone spinoff 1923 pic.twitter.com/86iwbo77WK
— UltimateWayne 🦇 (@ultimatewayne) January 31, 2024
In this clip you can definitely tell he has the voice and presence for it too I wouldn’t be surprised to see him on the shortlist if Gunn decides to go the young Hollywood hopeful into superstar route like he did with David pic.twitter.com/Gui6ASOZhK
— UltimateWayne 🦇 (@ultimatewayne) January 31, 2024
Oh this is my new top choice.
— anonymous (@FrozenBlitzz) February 1, 2024
I have to congratulate you, might be the most "plausible" fancasting I've seen so far. This guy is a fucking chad.
— Victor Nascimento (@OVictorComC) January 31, 2024
Powell had expressed his reluctance to play any superhero except Batman, but his opinion since then has evolved. The recent popularity of the Deadpool & Wolverine movie has made him more attracted to the genre. While on the Discourse Podcast (as per Comic Book), the actor spoke about his changed stance.
I just saw Deadpool & Wolverine. I freaking had a blast. I think what Shawn Levy and Ryan Reynolds did with that is extraordinary and just such a fun flavor for audiences. And I cheer for them, and I love what [they do.]
The Top Gun: Maverick star loved the movie and admired the actor’s and director’s brilliance. He is now open to joining not only DC but also the Marvel universe, if given a chance. Fans of the actor rejoice at this news because he would be perfect in the role of a superhero.
You know I’ve never gotten a call from DC or Marvel. but I’m a fan of everything they do.
Although neither Kevin Feige nor James Gunn have approached him yet, Powell remains hopeful. Due to the recent success of two of his movies, it is quite possible that the directors may approach him for a role, but nothing has been confirmed yet. His change of heart makes one thing certain: the actor is ready to take on the challenge.