Batman has yet to make his debut in the DC Universe, but Bruce Wayne isn’t to be forgotten. Much of 2026 has been quiet for the franchise, as they build the world around Batman before introducing him.
That’s become more apparent with ‘Lanterns’ and the upcoming ‘Clayface’ movie, which may go even further. We may not have seen the new DCU Batman yet, but Gotham and its connections are slowly becoming part of the universe.
‘Lanterns’ Is Quietly Building Gotham’s History
‘Lanterns’ has teased a few things about Batman, but it isn’t a Batman show. Kerry Kane’s history in Gotham immediately connected the Green Lantern mystery to Bruce Wayne’s hometown. Her surname is also important, since the comics have had a long history of the Kanes being related to the Wayne family.
Related: Before ‘The Batman Part II’, Matt Reeves Has Another Dark Knight Story Ready
Then, there was a more direct reference. Guy Gardner had installed a Green Lantern signal in Rushville, following “that bat guy in Gotham,” says Hal Jordan. It’s a small line but it makes a big difference. Batman is not a new character who just began his actions in the new DCU.
At this stage of the DCU, he’s already established and well known enough that other heroes can easily recognize his tactics. And let’s be honest, that makes his eventual appearance more interesting.
‘Clayface’ Could Make Gotham Feel Real Before Batman Arrives
The next big piece in the jigsaw puzzle is ‘Clayface’. Bruce Wayne won’t appear in the movie, but Gotham finally will, giving the DCU an opportunity to show the city that Batman will eventually inherit. The film also focuses on Matt Hagen’s transformation into Clayface.
In case you missed it: Why ‘Supergirl’ Ending Could Have A Huge Impact On Kara’s DCU Future
The character is one of Batman’s most iconic villains, so his backstory may set the tone for the darker side of Gotham before Bruce ever becomes the city’s protector. There’s also ample opportunity for familiar Gotham elements to come into play, like criminal organizations or even possible mentions of Wayne Enterprises.
However, none of this is an exact indication of when we’ll get to see Batman. ‘The Batman Part II’ is still set to be released in 2028 outside of the DCU, and ‘The Brave and the Bold’ is still the planned Batman film.
However, it seems that Gunn’s plan is starting to make sense: develop Gotham first, then introduce Batman. And that world building might make Bruce Wayne’s eventual arrival seem a lot bigger.
You might also like to read: Sebastian Stan Compares ‘The Batman Part II’ To ‘The Godfather Part II’
