The new rumored Batman actor for James Gunn’s DC Universe finally speaks out on the reports.

In an interview with GQ, Paul Anthony Kelly, who has recently emerged as a rumored star for a DCU role, with many believing he is a candidate for Batman in The Brave and the Bold, the actor finally responded to the speculation about him as the next Dark Knight. Kelly said, “If that’s what they say, then who am I to say no? I mean, that would be a dream come true.”

Kelly’s potential involvement with the DCU franchise first emerged in a report from gossip outlet, Deuxmoi, earlier in February. Per their rumor, they were hearing that the actor was “apparently being considered for a certain DC role.”

At the time of this story’s publication, Gunn and DC Studios have not commented on Kelly’s Batman response. There has also been no debunking or confirmation yet on the original February rumor.

The Brave and the Bold movie has been in the works since January 2023, when DC Studios presented it as part of their initial slate for the DCU. Andy Muschietti has been attached to direct over the last three years, while Christina Hudson is reportedly penning the script for the Batman reboot.

Over the last few years, several actors have expressed their interest in suiting up as the Caped Crusader for Gunn’s franchise, from Alan Ritchson, Jensen Ackles, Brandon Sklenar, to Jonathan Bailey. The Brave and the Bold won’t be the only Batman-related film in the DCU’s Chapter 1: “Gods and Monsters” slate, as Clayface is arriving this October, exploring one of his biggest foes.

While plot details are still under wraps, the initial reported story for The Brave and The Bold was set to explore Bruce Wayne’s relationship with Damian Wayne, his biological son, who would be the next Robin. At the time of the announcement, Gunn and DC Studios co-CEO Peter Safran said there could be appearances of additional Bat-Family members.

However, Gunn teased in 2025 that the story with Robin may be going in a different direction, saying, “Plenty of things are in flux on what his situation is with his parentage and all that stuff.” Even if Damian isn’t in the film, the reboot will focus on an established Batman.

Currently, DC Studios is working on The Batman — Part II in Matt Reeves’ separate universe. However, Gunn has stressed that the world won’t have to wait for Robert Pattinson’s trilogy to end before they see the DCU’s version.

DC Studios’ The Brave and the Bold has yet to land a release date.