10 Actors Who Almost Played Batman

Batman is one of the most iconic superheroes in pop culture. Over the years, many actors have worn the cape and cowl, but even more have come close to landing the role. Casting the Dark Knight is a big deal, with directors and studios often considering a wide range of talent. Some actors auditioned, others were in talks, and a few even got as far as costume fittings before plans changed.

The choices that almost happened are fascinating because they show how different Batman could have been. From action stars to dramatic actors, these near-misses offer a glimpse into alternate versions of Gotham’s protector. Here are ten actors who nearly played Batman, along with why they didn’t make the final cut.

Pierce Brosnan

Pierce Brosnan was a top choice for Tim Burton’s ‘Batman’ (1989). The former James Bond star met with Burton but couldn’t see himself in the role. He thought the idea of a man in a cape and tights was too silly for a serious actor. His hesitation led to Michael Keaton taking the part, a decision that shocked fans but proved to be a game-changer.

Brosnan later reflected that he might have missed a big opportunity. His suave charm and action-hero experience could have brought a polished, intense Batman to life. Instead, he went on to cement his legacy as 007, while Keaton redefined the Dark Knight for a new era.

Armie Hammer

Armie Hammer was cast as Batman in George Miller’s unproduced ‘Justice League: Mortal’ (2007). The young actor even got to the costume-fitting stage before the project was canceled. The success of Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Dark Knight’ and other issues shelved the film. Hammer later said he felt too young for the role at just 20 years old.

Hammer’s take would have been a darker, more psychologically complex Batman, similar to Christian Bale’s version. While he never got to play the Caped Crusader, Hammer’s career took off with roles in films like ‘The Social Network’. The lost chance remains one of the biggest what-ifs in superhero casting history.

Josh Brolin

Josh Brolin was a fan-favorite pick to play Batman in ‘Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice’ (2016). His rugged intensity and strong screen presence made him a natural fit for an older, battle-worn Bruce Wayne. However, Zack Snyder chose Ben Affleck instead, sparking heated debate among fans. Brolin’s casting would have likely been less controversial at the time.

Brolin has since thrived in major roles, like Thanos in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His gritty style could have given us a grounded, menacing Batman, but Affleck’s performance ultimately won over many critics and fans despite the initial backlash.

Jake Gyllenhaal

Jake Gyllenhaal was in the running for Christopher Nolan’s ‘Batman Begins’ (2005). His brooding intensity in films like ‘Donnie Darko’ made him a strong contender for Bruce Wayne. Nolan met with several young actors, but Christian Bale’s commanding presence won out. Gyllenhaal’s near-miss was a close call, as he was reportedly a finalist.

Had Gyllenhaal been cast, his emotional depth could have created a more introspective Batman. Instead, he went on to star in acclaimed films like ‘Nightcrawler’ and even played a Marvel villain, Mysterio, showing his versatility in the superhero genre.

Henry Cavill

Before becoming Superman, Henry Cavill auditioned for Batman in ‘Batman Begins’ (2005). At the time, he was a rising star, and Christopher Nolan considered him among other young actors. Cavill’s physicality and charisma were strong, but Christian Bale’s intensity secured the role. Cavill later found his place in the DC Universe as the Man of Steel.

Cavill’s Batman could have been a towering, athletic take on the character, leaning into his action-hero qualities. While he didn’t get the cowl, his Superman role in ‘Man of Steel’ and beyond made him a key figure in DC’s cinematic world.

Johnny Depp

Johnny Depp was considered for ‘Batman Forever’ (1995) after Michael Keaton left the franchise. Director Tim Burton, who had worked with Depp before, pushed for him, but Joel Schumacher and the studio went with Val Kilmer. Depp’s interest in the role was strong, but it never came together. His unique style could have brought a gothic edge to the character.

Depp’s Batman would likely have been eccentric and intense, much like his roles in Burton’s films. Instead, he carved out a legendary career with characters like Jack Sparrow, leaving fans to wonder about his potential Dark Knight.

Nicolas Cage

Nicolas Cage was in talks to play Scarecrow in Joel Schumacher’s unproduced ‘Batman Unchained’ (late 1990s). However, some reports suggest he was also considered for Batman in earlier projects. Cage’s love for comics and his wild energy made him a bold choice, but the role went in other directions. His passion for the character was clear, as he’s a known Batman fan.

Cage as Batman would have been unpredictable, possibly blending intensity with his signature quirks. While he never wore the cowl, he did play Superman in a cameo in ‘The Flash’, showing his superhero chops.

Jon Hamm

Jon Hamm lobbied to replace Ben Affleck as Batman in the DC Extended Universe after doubts surfaced about Affleck’s commitment. The ‘Mad Men’ star’s charm and gravitas made him a compelling choice for an older Bruce Wayne. However, Affleck stayed on, and Hamm never got his shot. Fans still speculate about his potential in the role.

Hamm’s sophisticated yet tough persona could have delivered a polished, commanding Batman. While he missed out, his interest in the part shows how coveted the role remains for top-tier actors.

Tom Hanks

Tom Hanks was reportedly considered for Tim Burton’s ‘Batman’ (1989) and later for ‘Batman Forever’ (1995). Known for comedies at the time, Hanks was an unconventional pick, much like Michael Keaton. The studio ultimately chose Keaton and then Val Kilmer, leaving Hanks to focus on his dramatic rise. His casting would have been a major surprise.

Hanks could have brought warmth and relatability to Bruce Wayne, with a lighter take on the character. Instead, he became a Hollywood legend with films like ‘Forrest Gump’, proving he didn’t need the Batsuit to shine.

Heath Ledger

Heath Ledger met with Christopher Nolan about playing Batman in ‘Batman Begins’ (2005). At the time, Ledger wasn’t interested in superhero films and turned down the role. Nolan later cast him as the Joker in ‘The Dark Knight’, a performance that won him a posthumous Oscar. Ledger’s decision changed superhero movie history.

Ledger’s Batman could have been raw and intense, given his transformative acting style. While he didn’t become the Dark Knight, his iconic Joker remains one of the greatest villain performances ever.

Which actor do you think would have made the most interesting Batman? Share your thoughts in the comments below!