Before Alan Ritchson became one of television’s most formidable action stars, he’d already dipped his toe in the superhero waters, playing Aquaman on Smallville before taking on the role of Hawk in Titans. But the lead in a major comic book movie has still eluded the star of Prime Video‘s biggest hit, Reacher. However, that might well be changing — if DC acquiesces to some of Ritchson‘s quality control demands, as he has made it clear that he will not simply accept whatever DC Studios offers.
Speaking with Josh Horowitz, the Reacher star confirmed that he has held extensive talks with DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn about potentially joining the DCU. “James Gunn and I have spoken a lot,” Ritchson said. “I really respect James. I would like to do something with James. James would like to do something with me, but my litmus test for what I will take is strict.”
Alan Ritchson Wants Creative Input on Any DCU Role
Ritchson has repeatedly emerged as a fan favorite choice to play Batman in The Brave and the Bold, although he stopped short of confirming that the Caped Crusader is the character under discussion because, as he explains, he wants to pick a project and develop it himself and if he can’t do that with the Dark Knight, then he won’t. “I pick the sh*t out of projects,” he explained. “I know how to develop a project, and anything I do with DC will still meet my standards. It’ll have to meet my standards.”
The Reacher star added that he would want to be creatively involved where useful and confirmed that he has a particular character in mind, but once again, refused to elaborate on who it might be. “There could be a bright future for us, and there have been a lot of conversations,” he teased. Ritchson also reflected on auditioning for Thor before Chris Hemsworth landed the Marvel role. He admitted that he arrived underprepared and received blunt feedback that he lacked the necessary craft.
“I didn’t show up that day ready. I’m never going to let that happen again.”
Whether that path eventually leads him to Batman, Deathstroke, or another DC character remains unclear, but Ritchson appears determined to wait for a role and project he genuinely believes in, which is the kind of thing that can only benefit the audience.
via Collider