The Batman – Part II is starting to expand its cast as the DC sequel gets into production this year. As the DC Universe is expanding, so is Matt Reeves’ Elseworlds property, as Sebastian Stan is joining The Batman – Part II.
Variety reports that Barry Keoghan is reprising the role of the Joker after all, following his introduction in 2022’s The Batman. Principal photography is reportedly starting in May, only a month after James Gunn’s Man of Tomorrow film kicks off filming.
Close up of Barry Keoghan as the Joker in a deleted scene from The Batman
Keoghan’s take on the Clown Prince of Crime debuted in The Batman ending, as Paul Dano’s The Riddler gets sent off to Arkham Asylum. A deleted scene of him and Pattinson’s Dark Knight was later released, showing their encounter.
The Batman – Part II cast will also feature Scarlett Johansson, as she has been tapped for a mystery role. If Stan’s deal goes through, that will mark two major Marvel Cinematic Universe stars making the move to DC.
With Keoghan’s Joker coming back, it’s still worth taking into account that this doesn’t confirm that he will be the central antagonist of The Batman – Part II story. It’s still very likely that the sequel will have a different Batman villain as the main threat, which will be revealed in the coming months.
Following The Penguin season 1 finale, Colin Farrell will reprise Oz Cobb once more, who had a supporting role in 2022’s The Batman. Zoë Kravitz, who played Selina Kyle, a.k.a. Catwoman, in the first film, is reportedly not returning for the second installment.
Given how The Batman universe is open for spinoffs, there is always the chance that Keoghans’ Joker return will perhaps indicate more about what Reeves’ plans are for him in the long run.
The Batman – Part II opens in theaters on October 1, 2027.