Batman is officially off the table. But Alan Ritchson‘s DC future just got a whole lot more interesting.
The Reacher star has confirmed what comic book fans have been speculating for months, James Gunn wants him in the DCU, but it won’t be as the Dark Knight. In a candid chat that since then has sent shockwaves through the superhero community, Ritchson revealed that while Batman discussions have happened, his destiny lies elsewhere in DC’s expanding universe.
The Reacher star recently addressed these rumors head-on to Variety. He said,
Well, it’s not a rumor that James Gunn is a fan. He said it himself. And am I a fan of James Gunn? Absolutely. I don’t want to mislead people. Words have been exchanged about Batman. But 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.
With Batman apparently off the table, Ritchson’s combination of physicality, acting prowess, and screen presence makes him an ideal candidate for several other major DCU characters.
Here are five powerhouses that could be perfect matches for the 41-year-old actor!
1. Aquaman
While Jason Momoa’s future as Aquaman remains uncertain in Gunn’s DCU reboot, Arthur Curry represents one of DC’s most powerful and visually striking heroes. Ritchson possesses the commanding physical presence needed for the King of Atlantis, standing 6’3″ with an impressive build that rivals even Momoa’s stature.
Fan campaigns have already begun circulating online, with many pointing to Ritchson’s ability to balance intensity with humor. His performance in Reacher has time and again shown his capacity to portray a character who can dominate the screen. The underwater sequences and mythological elements of Aquaman’s world would allow Ritchson to showcase the same larger-than-life presence that made him perfect for Jack Reacher.
Other actors frequently mentioned for the role include Charles Melton and Patrick Wilson, but the demand to see Ritchson in this role is unmatched.
Real NameArthur CurryFirst AppearanceMore Fun Comics #73 (1941)CreatorsMort Weisinger, Paul NorrisPowers/AbilitiesSuper strength, underwater breathing, telepathy with sea life, and durability
2. Captain Atom
Nathaniel Adam, better known as Captain Atom, represents one of DC’s most underutilized powerhouses. A character with near-Superman-level abilities and a military background is just what the DCU needs right now, and Alan Ritchson is the guy for it. The character’s origin as an Air Force pilot transformed into a quantum-powered being could perfectly tap into Ritchson’s strengths and help fill the giant MCU-shaped hole in fans’ hearts right now.
Captain Atom’s complex moral code and struggle with immense power require an actor capable of conveying internal conflict beneath a stoic exterior. Ritchson’s natural ability to project both vulnerability and overwhelming strength serves the character’s dual nature as ultimate weapon and reluctant hero.
While actors like Joel Kinnaman and Jake McLaughlin have been fan-cast, Ritchson’s explosive action sequences throughout his career are making a strong case for him.
Real NameNathaniel AdamFirst AppearanceSpace Adventures #33 (1960, Charlton Comics) / DC debut in Captain Atom #1 (1987)CreatorsJoe Gill, Steve DitkoPowers/AbilitiesNuclear energy manipulation, flight, super strength, energy projection
3. Shazam
Shazam is a tricky role because it asks for something very specific: a grown man with the mind and heart of a teenager. Alan Ritchson, with his track record of hopping from comedy in Blue Mountain State to superhero suits in Titans to the action-heavy Reacher, has already shown he can switch gears without missing a beat. That kind of range is exactly what you need to pull off Billy Batson’s wide-eyed wonder while still looking like someone who could go toe-to-toe with Superman.
Physically, Ritchson checks every box. He’s got the towering frame, the heroic jawline, and the kind of screen presence that makes you believe in magic words turning kids into demigods. And moreover, with his natural charm and quick humor, you have the recipe for a Shazam who could be funny without turning into a full-on cartoon.
If James Gunn decides to age up Billy Batson for a slightly more grounded or mature version of the story, Ritchson could give us a Shazam who’s both larger-than-life and surprisingly relatable.
Sure, Zachary Levi made the role his own, and names like John Cena and Channing Tatum have been tossed around by fans for a reboot. But Ritchson brings something different to the table. Only time will tell which way Gunn will be going.
Real NameBilly BatsonFirst AppearanceWhiz Comics #2 (1940)CreatorsC.C. Beck, Bill ParkerPowers/AbilitiesWisdom of Solomon, strength of Hercules, stamina of Atlas, power of Zeus, courage of Achilles, speed of Mercury
4. Hawkman
Hawkman is not a one-note superhero. Carter Hall comes with centuries of baggage, literally, as the reincarnation of Egyptian prince Khufu. He’s a warrior, a leader, and a man who remembers way too many lifetimes filled with love, loss, and battles. To pull that off, you need an actor who can carry the weight of all that history while still looking like he could crush you with one swing of a mace. Alan Ritchson fits that bill perfectly.
The character’s complex relationship with violence, embracing it as necessary while struggling with moral implications, mirrors themes Ritchson has explored throughout his career.
Dwayne Johnson was once attached before becoming Black Adam, while actors like Gerard Butler and Aldis Hodge remain fan favorites. Ritchson is also a strong contender.
Real NameCarter Hall (also Katar Hol in Silver Age)First AppearanceFlash Comics #1 (1940)CreatorsGardner Fox, Dennis NevillePowers/AbilitiesFlight (Nth Metal wings), super strength, weapon mastery, reincarnation
5. Orion
The son of Darkseid represents one of DC’s most psychologically complex characters, a New God who’s constantly at war with his own violent nature while trying to live up to his heroic ideals. Orion’s story is built on that inner conflict, born from darkness but striving to be a force for good.
On top of that, Orion is no small role. As one of the most powerful New Gods, he brings galaxy-sized stakes with him, so whoever plays him needs the physical presence to sell that cosmic scale. Ritchson, with his strength capabilities and emotional range, could make Orion the next best thing in Gunn’s DCU.
While Orion isn’t as famous as Superman or Batman, fans have long debated who could bring him to the big screen. Other than Ritchson, names like Sam Heughan and Will Poulter get thrown around a lot. Fans are excited to see this character on screen for real, and they really hope Gunn gets it right!
Real NameOrionFirst AppearanceNew Gods #1 (1971)CreatorsJack KirbyPowers/AbilitiesSuper strength, astro-force blasts, advanced technology, warrior training
Ritchson’s confirmation that “something” is in his future with DC does suggest that significant discussions are underway. Each character would benefit from his unique combination of physical presence, emotional range, and proven ability to anchor major productions.
From Smallville’s Aquaman to Titans’ Hawk, Ritchson has already proven his superhero credentials. Whether as the King of Atlantis, a quantum-powered soldier, the World’s Mightiest Mortal, a reincarnated warrior, or the son of Darkseid, he possesses the tools to bring any of these powerhouses to life in Gunn’s evolving DCU. With Batman out of the picture, one of these iconic roles could propel Ritchson to big-screen superhero stardom in no time.
What role do you want to see Alan Ritchson play in DCU? Share your pick with us in the comments below!
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