Casting the Perfect Reverse-Flash for the DC Universe

The DC Universe is charging into a new era under James Gunn’s leadership, bringing fresh energy to iconic characters like the Flash and his nemesis, Reverse-Flash. Eobard Thawne, the sinister speedster obsessed with tormenting Barry Allen, demands an actor who can capture his cunning, intensity, and twisted charisma.

Choosing the right talent for this villain is key to making the DCU’s storytelling pop. We’ve handpicked 15 actors who could slip into the yellow suit and bring Thawne’s dark legacy to life, each with the range to make him a thrilling foe.

15. Justin Hartley

Justin Hartley shone as Oliver Queen in ‘Smallville’ (2001-2011) and recently voiced Superman in ‘Injustice’. His sharp features and commanding presence make him a natural fit for Thawne’s calculating nature.

Hartley’s knack for playing driven, complex characters would let him dive deep into Thawne’s obsessive vendetta. His action-hero experience ensures he’d nail the high-speed battles, making Reverse-Flash a formidable onscreen rival.

14. Jared Padalecki

Jared Padalecki carried ‘Supernatural’ (2005-2020) as Sam Winchester, showing he can handle intense, layered roles. His towering presence and emotional depth would give Thawne a haunting edge.

Padalecki’s ability to blend charm with darkness would make Reverse-Flash both magnetic and menacing. He’d bring a raw intensity to Thawne’s schemes, keeping viewers hooked on his every move.

13. Glenn Howerton

Glenn Howerton’s unhinged energy as Dennis Reynolds in ‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’ (2005-2025) screams Thawne’s chaotic vibe. His sharp wit and sly delivery would make the villain’s taunts sting.

Howerton’s knack for playing manipulative characters would let him lean into Thawne’s twisted psyche. He’d bring a playful yet terrifying edge to Reverse-Flash, making every scene crackle with tension.

12. Michael C. Hall

Michael C. Hall mastered the role of a complex killer in ‘Dexter’ (2006-2013). His ability to play a charming sociopath would translate perfectly to Thawne’s sinister schemes.

Hall’s intense, controlled performances would give Reverse-Flash a chilling presence. He’d make Thawne’s obsession with Barry feel personal and dangerous, elevating the stakes in every confrontation.

11. Penn Badgley

Penn Badgley’s chilling turn as Joe Goldberg in ‘You’ (2018-2024) shows he can play an obsessive stalker with ease. That same energy would make Thawne a gripping antagonist.

Badgley’s knack for blending charm and menace would let him embody Thawne’s warped charisma. His subtle intensity would make every encounter with the Flash feel like a psychological duel.

10. Wilson Bethel

Wilson Bethel’s role as Bullseye in ‘Daredevil’ (2015-2018) proved he can portray unhinged villains with depth. His physicality and sharp delivery would suit Thawne’s relentless drive.

Bethel could channel Thawne’s cunning into every smirk and scheme. His ability to shift from calm to chaotic would make Reverse-Flash a dynamic threat onscreen.

9. C. Thomas Howell

C. Thomas Howell voiced Thawne in animated films like ‘Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox’ and ‘Suicide Squad: Hell to Pay’. His growling, taunting delivery already fits the character perfectly.

Howell’s experience with Thawne’s voice work would let him seamlessly transition to live-action. He’d bring a seasoned menace to the role, making Reverse-Flash feel like a true nemesis.

8. Matthew McConaughey

Matthew McConaughey’s magnetic performance in ‘The Gentlemen’ showed he can tackle villainous roles with flair. His distinctive voice and charisma would make Thawne unforgettable.

McConaughey could infuse Thawne’s taunts with a hypnotic edge, drawing viewers into his schemes. His ability to command attention would ensure Reverse-Flash steals every scene.

7. Kevin Bacon

Kevin Bacon’s sly turn as Sebastian Shaw in ‘X-Men: First Class’ (2011) highlighted his knack for manipulative villains. That same charm would make Thawne a captivating foe.

Bacon’s ability to balance likability and menace would give Reverse-Flash a unique edge. His playful delivery could turn Thawne’s cruelty into something both chilling and magnetic.

6. Jensen Ackles

Jensen Ackles brought charm and grit to ‘Supernatural’ (2005-2020). His action-hero skills and emotional range would make Thawne a multifaceted villain.

Ackles could blend Thawne’s cunning with a dark charisma that draws you in. His physical presence would ensure the speedster’s battles feel as thrilling as his mind games.

5. Travis Fimmel

Travis Fimmel’s raw intensity in ‘Vikings’ (2013-2020) would redefine Thawne’s chaotic energy. His piercing stare and unpredictable vibe fit the villain’s obsessive nature.

Fimmel’s physicality would make Reverse-Flash’s high-speed fights electrifying. He’d bring a feral edge to Thawne’s vendetta, making him a relentless threat to the Flash.

4. Colin Farrell

Colin Farrell’s brooding performance in ‘The Batman’ (2022) showed he can dominate as a calculated villain. His intensity would make Thawne a gripping antagonist.

Farrell’s ability to play unhinged yet controlled characters would suit Thawne’s psyche. His charisma would keep audiences glued to Reverse-Flash’s every calculated step.

3. Adam Driver

Adam Driver’s tormented Kylo Ren in the ‘Star Wars’ sequel trilogy (2015-2019) proved he can portray complex villains. His emotional depth would make Thawne’s hatred feel raw.

Driver could bring a layered intensity to Thawne, blending rage with vulnerability. His commanding presence would make Reverse-Flash a true rival to Barry Allen.

2. Alexander Skarsgård

Alexander Skarsgård’s cold charisma in ‘True Blood’ (2008-2014) would make Thawne a magnetic menace. His imposing frame and sharp delivery fit the villain’s twisted charm.

Skarsgård could make Thawne’s manipulations feel effortless and chilling. His ability to shift from calm to intense would keep viewers on edge in every scene.

1. Antony Starr

Antony Starr’s electrifying role as Homelander in ‘The Boys’ (2019-2025) makes him a top pick for Thawne. His ability to play a charismatic sociopath screams Reverse-Flash.

Starr would bring a terrifying yet captivating energy to the role. His commanding presence and chilling delivery would make Thawne the DCU’s ultimate villain.

Who’s your pick to play Reverse-Flash, or did we miss a perfect choice? Drop your thoughts in the comments!