Alan Ritchson: Perfect for Batman, But Aquaman Could Be Even Better

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In my opinion, one of DCU’s most well-known actors for Batman in “Batman: The Brave and the Bold” might fit a different character more appropriately, as he had played this role decades before. There are few discussions as contentious as who should wear the Batman cape. With James Gunn and Peter Safran rebooting the DCU, there’s been an overwhelming surge of fan ideas and speculations online. One name consistently surfaces – a name that fits the physical description, has charm, and is expanding his acting portfolio, but I can’t shake the feeling he’d excel even more if he returned to the other DC superhero he portrayed almost two decades ago.

The Brave and the Bold,” is approaching, there’s a lot of discussion about who will play the next Batman. A popular suggestion is an actor that previously portrayed another Justice League member – and some think he could reprise the role again.

Alan Ritchson Is One Of The DC Universe’s Main Batman Fan Casts

Batman Will Appear In The DCU’s The Brave And The Bold

Alan Ritchson is frequently suggested by fans as a potential Batman for the DC Universe. He’s at an ideal stage of fame – well-known enough to lead a series, but not yet so established that he might seem too familiar for iconic roles. With his successful debut as Jack Reacher in Amazon’s “Reacher,” he has become a prominent figure, capturing public attention and creating anticipation due to his ability to bring a fresh perspective to renowned characters.

Ritchson stands tall and has a robust physique, giving off an imposing on-screen presence. More importantly, he can convey a subtle yet chilling threat through his gaze alone, much like what is needed for Batman. Across fan art, casting discussions, and Reddit posts, he’s frequently mentioned as one of the top picks to take on the role of Bruce Wayne in the DC Universe.

Reacher has provided viewers with a strong glimpse of how Ritchson might portray Batman’s tough yet calculated stance on justice. He’s demonstrated his ability to lead a franchise, grapple with moral complexity, and execute action scenes convincingly. Although Ritchson would certainly make an excellent Batman, I believe he could excel even more as Aquaman.

Alan Ritchson Could Be A Better DCU Aquaman After Playing The Role Years Ago In Smallville

Prior to Jason Momoa embodying the character in the DCEU, Alan Ritchson initially played Aquaman. He first appeared as Arthur Curry in Smallville way back in 2005, exhibiting the aquatic hero with a casual surfer’s swagger, indignant passion, and a touch of rebellious allure. His portrayal was less about the mythical god and more focused on an eco-warrior rebel – yet it was effective. For many viewers, it marked the first instance when Aquaman truly seemed cool.

In my perspective, even though my time on Smallville was short-lived, it undeniably left a significant impact. Contrary to some characters, my portrayal of Aquaman wasn’t a subject of ridicule or a secondary, watered-down figure. Instead, I was given the autonomy, charisma, and an edge that truly set me apart within the expanding ensemble of potential Justice Leaguers.

Two decades on, with a more refined screen persona, enhanced acting abilities, and action prowess to match any contemporary star, Ritchson could transform his initial interpretation of Aquaman into something legendary. Something that combines the noble dignity and rugged toughness that Aquaman requires.

Why Alan Ritchson Can Be Aquaman In Smallville & The DC Universe

Superhero Movies Have Already Established Multiversal Variants

Translating Ritchson to Aquaman within the fresh DCU wouldn’t merely be a tribute to nostalgia; it could also prove an astute creative decision. Reviving an actor like Ritchson for a new role that still feels familiar offers fascinating storyline possibilities. He doesn’t have to embody the exact same Aquaman from Smallville. On the contrary, having his new Aquaman presented as a kind of multiverse counterpart – hinting at his earlier role subtly while developing a unique and contemporary version of the character – would make it even more intriguing.

Marvel has cleverly demonstrated this concept through characters such as J.K. Simmons’ J. Jonah Jameson across various Spider-Man series, and Patrick Stewart’s inclusion in the MCU as Charles Xavier in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. The familiar face doesn’t have to represent the same backstory; it serves as a nod to the audience that can help expand upon their existing knowledge of these characters.

This change would enable Ritchson to reimagine Aquaman in a fresh setting: maybe as a warrior-environmentalist instead of a god-king; someone straddling two realms, yet with a grittier, streamlined portrayal compared to Momoa’s rock-star version. He could infuse the character with a depth and raw emotion that aligns with what the DC Universe aspires to – less steeped in mythological grandeur, more focused on intricate emotional narratives.

In my opinion, a strategy reminiscent of what worked well for Smallville, where Tom Welling made an appearance as Clark Kent within the Arrowverse on The CW, could also be successful for the DCU. By casting one of our underappreciated actors in a role he began but never completed, we might finally give him the limelight he deserves – and Aquaman seems like the perfect part for Ritchson to truly shine. While Batman is undeniably captivating, it’s Aquaman where I believe Ritchson could create quite a splash.

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2025-04-25 14:28