James Gunn is slowly but steadily pulling back the curtain on the future of the DC Universe, and his latest tease has fans of Gotham City’s most cunning antihero celebrating. Alongside Batman, Catwoman might finally be in the new DCU’s plans.
It’s clear that Gunn is crafting a world where relationships matter as much as explosions. And where icons like Catwoman don’t just wait in the shadows.
James Gunn Teases Catwoman’s DCU Debut
When asked on Threads if Selina Kyle, better known as Catwoman, would be part of the DCU, Gunn didn’t hesitate. His answer was a simple and confident “Oh, for sure.” While he didn’t clarify when or where Catwoman will make her entrance, Gunn’s confirmation makes one thing clear: the DCU is wasting no time assembling its Bat-family and Rogues Gallery. Unlike past films where Batman was treated as an isolated entity, the rebooted DC Universe will begin with established heroes and villains already operating in the shadows.
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That means Catwoman is likely already out there. With ‘The Brave and the Bold’ DCU’s upcoming Batman film, directed by Andy Muschietti, still in development, many fans are wondering if Catwoman will make her debut there. It would make perfect sense. This Bruce Wayne will already be a father figure to Damian Wayne, his assassin-raised son. And if Damian exists in this universe, then Batman likely has years of history behind him.
This can easily include a complicated relationship with Selina Kyle. Meanwhile, Matt Reeves’ ‘The Batman’ saga starring Robert Pattinson and Zoe Kravitz continues separately under the Elseworlds banner. This allows both interpretations to coexist. However, Gunn’s DCU will mark the first time Catwoman appears as part of a shared cinematic universe, something that strangely never happened during the DCEU era.
Not even Ben Affleck’s Batman got the chance to cross paths with her. That’s a void Gunn seems determined to fill. Catwoman’s addition opens the door to dozens of exciting story arcs. Could we finally get a Gotham City Sirens project? With Harley Quinn already popular, Poison Ivy due for an overdue return, and Catwoman now confirmed, the stage is set. Or perhaps Gunn has grander plans. Only time will tell.
Former MCU Villain Ben Barnes Wants To Be Batman
While Gunn assembles his roster of villains and antiheroes, casting speculation for ‘The Brave and the Bold’s Batman is reaching a fever pitch. Many actors have tossed their cowl into the ring. However, one recent contender has fans buzzing: Ben Barnes, best known to Marvel fans as Billy Russo (a.k.a. Jigsaw) from Netflix’s ‘The Punisher’. While speaking to Collider, Barnes confessed his lifelong love of the Dark Knight.
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“In every single one of my childhood videos, I was dressed like Batman or Robin Hood. I think there may have been a Spider-Man one, but it was mainly Batman… Just call me, I’ve got Bruce Wayne ready to go.” That’s not just interest, that’s a plea. Moreover, Barnes has the right ingredients for a compelling Bruce Wayne. His performance in ‘The Punisher’ further proved that. Of course, Gunn has been clear that Batman in the DCU won’t be a rookie.
Between Catwoman’s official entry into the DCU and a rising tide of actors vying for the cape and cowl, it’s clear that ‘The Brave and the Bold’ isn’t just another Batman reboot; it’s shaping up to be one of the most anticipated comic adaptations of the decade. Now the question is: Who will be standing beside her when she finally steps into the DCU?
