Jensen Ackles Opens Up About Playing Batman: “I’d Be Proud” to Wear the Cape and Cowl
Jensen Ackles, best known for his iconic role as Dean Winchester in Supernatural, has long been a fan-favorite pick to take on the mantle of Batman. With his rugged charm, intense screen presence, and proven acting range, many believe he’s the perfect candidate to portray the Dark Knight in James Gunn and Peter Safran’s evolving DC Universe (DCU).
In a recent interview that quickly went viral among DC and Supernatural fans alike, Ackles finally addressed the Batman buzz that has followed him for years. “Would I play Batman? Of course I would,” he said. “I’d be proud to wear the cape and cowl. Who wouldn’t want to step into those boots?”
This isn’t the first time Ackles has been linked to the legendary superhero. He voiced Bruce Wayne/Batman in the Batman: The Long Halloween animated films, earning praise for his gritty yet emotional portrayal of Gotham’s greatest detective. That performance only fueled speculation about a potential live-action role.
Ackles acknowledged the passion of fans who continue to campaign for him. “It’s flattering, honestly,” he said. “When people tell you they can see you as Batman — a character that has stood the test of time — it means a lot.” But he also emphasized his respect for the role and what it demands, stating, “It’s not a part you just take lightly.”
Since the launch of the new DCU under Gunn and Safran, speculation has been rampant over who will succeed Ben Affleck as the next cinematic Batman. With The Brave and the Bold movie already in development, fans are eager to know who will be cast as Bruce Wayne in this new chapter — one that will also introduce Damian Wayne, Bruce’s son and the latest Robin.
Ackles’s name continues to appear on fan-casting shortlists alongside other popular choices like Jake Gyllenhaal and Richard Armitage. But what sets Ackles apart is his established connection to DC projects, both animated and live-action, and his massive fan base, which has proven to be fiercely loyal over the years.
His Supernatural co-star and real-life friend Jared Padalecki has also weighed in on the idea, previously saying Ackles would make an “incredible” Batman and bring a grounded humanity to the character that few actors can achieve. The support from fellow actors only reinforces the idea that Ackles has both the talent and the temperament for such a demanding role.
While he didn’t confirm any talks with DC Studios, Ackles did leave the door wide open. “If the call comes, I’m answering,” he said with a smile. “It’s a character I’ve always admired. And I’d give it everything I’ve got.”
James Gunn, who is known for shaking up expectations with his casting decisions (Guardians of the Galaxy, Peacemaker), has yet to reveal who will play the DCU’s Batman. With filming expected to begin in the coming year, the pressure is on to find the right actor who can redefine the role for a new generation.
Ackles is no stranger to long-running franchises and complex characters. After 15 seasons on Supernatural, a recurring role on The Boys, and a standout performance as Soldier Boy, he’s proven he can handle dark, layered heroes — or anti-heroes — with ease.
Whether or not he eventually suits up as Gotham’s protector remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: Jensen Ackles has the voice, the look, and the passion to make a compelling Batman. And if the DCU is listening, fans are more than ready to see him take the leap from Winchester to Wayne.
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