James Gunn, co-CEO of DC Studios, has specifically addressed recent rumours surrounding the inclusion of popular comic book villains such as Hush and Clayface in The Batman Part II, the highly anticipated sequel to the 2022 film featuring Robert Pattinson as the caped crusader.
Responding on Threads, Gunn addressed a since-deleted post that asserted several notable DC characters would make appearances in 2025’s The Batman: Part II.
The original post stated that Professor Pyg and Scarecrow were set to join Clayface, Hush, and Dick Grayson in Batman Part II.
Who is James Gunn?
James Gunn, born on August 5, 1966, in St. Louis, Missouri, is a renowned American filmmaker, screenwriter, actor, and producer. Notable for his unique style, Gunn gained early recognition with the 2006 film “Slither.”
He made a significant impact on the superhero genre with his work on Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) films, particularly “Guardians of the Galaxy” (2014) and its sequel. Gunn briefly faced controversy in 2018 but was reinstated for “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.” He directed “The Suicide Squad” (2021), receiving acclaim for his irreverent tone.
The Rumours
While there is still a considerable amount of time before the Twilight star dons the mantle of Gotham City’s hero once again, speculations about his upcoming adventures regularly surface on social media, particularly when an “insider” discloses details about the film.
Recently, a list of alleged villains for the sequel was “leaked” by Daniel Richtman, also known as Daniel RPK, featuring names such as Professor Pyg, Scarecrow, Clayface, Hush, and the introduction of Dick Grayson. However, it appears that none of this information is accurate, according to a source who should be well-informed.
The Gunn Fires!
On Threads, James Gunn addressed a user who shared the news, confirming that it was merely a rumour and not accurate information. While The Batman: Part II won’t be integrated into the new DCU canon, a request made by Matt Reeves himself, it will be produced by DC Studios, ensuring the involvement of both Gunn and Peter Safran in some capacity.
Gunn mentioned recently that he hasn’t had the chance to review a script for the movie yet but has engaged in discussions with Reeves regarding the direction he intends to take The Batman next.
The Characters To Feature
DC has confirmed Robert Pattinson as Batman for The Batman: Part II. Pattinson and director Matt Reeves express interest in exploring characters like Robin and Hush in future Batman projects. In a February 2022 interview, Pattinson hinted at the possibility of Robin’s inclusion, emphasizing a younger age.
Reeves mentioned Hush as a compelling character to explore. Barry Keoghan, who played The Joker, hinted at a potential return. The release date for The Batman—Part II is set for October 3, 2025, in the United States.
Looking For The Perfect Fit For The Villain
Following Batman’s conclusion, a tease of the Joker, portrayed by Barry Keoghan, stirred discussions among fans. A deleted deleted scene fueled speculation about the Joker as the potential villain in Matt Reeves’ sequel, but this notion was short-lived. Fans soon turned their attention to other possible antagonists, including Clayface, Mr. Freeze, and The Court of Owls.
Although many hoped for the live-action debut of these characters, a recent rumour points to Hush potentially being the main villain in The Batman Part II. The speculation originated on The Hot Mic with Jeff Sneider and John Rocha on YouTube when Sneider initiated a conversation about the sequel film.
Sneider acknowledges that he has only heard rumours and doesn’t dismiss the possibility of Hush being the primary antagonist in The Batman Part II. However, the ultimate decision remains pending, as the sequel’s script was incomplete before the writers’ strike. If Hush is indeed the chosen villain for the next film, how would he be integrated into the existing universe?
What Should We Expect?
In the initial instalment, Pattinson’s Batman is a relatively new figure in Gotham City, distinct from previous, more established portrayals of Bruce Wayne. The first movie sets the groundwork for this fresh universe, allowing Pattinson’s Dark Knight to navigate the challenges of becoming the city’s needed hero.
However, the Batman world is not without consequences, and the aftermath of Carmine Falcone’s death and the chaos caused by Paul Dano’s Riddler will extend into other projects, such as the upcoming Max series, The Penguin.
In the forthcoming year, The Penguin’s premiere will broaden Reeves’ universe, offering insights into the Gotham underworld ruled by criminals and the mafia.
With Colin Farrell reprising his role, the series explores Oswald Cobblepot’s ascent to power in Falcone’s absence. The show serves as a connection between The Batman and its sequel, though whether Pattinson will make an appearance remains a mystery.
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