Reports: Michael Keaton to return as Batman
It’s been nearly 30 years since Michael Keaton played Batman, but he may be answering the Bat-Signal once again.
The Hollywood Reporter says the Pittsburgh native is in talks to reprise the role in Warner Bros.’ upcoming DC movie “The Flash.”
And it might not just be the Flash movie, which is set to star Ezra Miller.
“The role being envisioned for the (Keaton) actor is akin to the role played by Samuel Jackson as Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, something of a mentor or guide or even string-puller,” sources told the Hollywood Reporter. “‘Batgirl’ is one the projects in development that could fall under that (wing).”
The Wrap reports the Flash movie could delve into the DCU’s multiverse, which would allow the introduction of alternate universes and multiple variations of characters. That concept’s been successfully used in the CW’s “Arrowverse” franchise of shows such as “Arrow,” “The Flash,” “Legends of Tomorrow,” “Supergirl” and more.
Keaton played the Dark Knight in the blockbuster “Batman” in 1989 and “Batman Returns” in 1992. Val Kilmer, George Clooney, Christian Bale and Ben Affleck subsequently played the role onscreen. The latest iteration, “The Batman,” stars Robert Pattinson and is slated to be released on Oct. 21, 2021.
Mike Palm is a TribLive digital producer who also writes music reviews and features. A Westmoreland County native, he joined the Trib in 2001, where he spent years on the sports copy desk, including serving as night sports editor. He has been with the multimedia staff since 2013. He can be reached at mpalm@triblive.com.
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