It’s been a couple of months since we released our MCU X-Men Geekly casting, so we decided to do the same for the DCU’s Justice League. Hey, hey! Kyra Kyle here. Like our previous post, I’ll handle the first part of our Geekly casting: modern actors. Fortunately, Superman just dropped, and we have some clarity on who will play certain roles. That makes it easier for me. Ha-ha, Skye. By the time we’re writing this, we will not have watched Superman. Geekly should have a Superman review posted if you want to hear our thoughts on the actors’ performances. We’ll link our Superman review here if I remember to do so and you’re interested.

Skye will continue with actors who may have aged out of certain roles or sliding actors into roles posthumously. Ugh! Skye’s giving Hollywood ideas on whose faces they should impose on body doubles. Who am I kidding? I may want to see some of these actors in these roles, too. Without further ado, let’s get to the cast list.

Kyra’s Picks

If the DCU has already cast someone in a role, I chose that actor for that role and provided commentary on how I think the actor will manage. If an actor hasn’t been officially cast as a role (as of April 2025), I’ll usually choose an actor from fan castings. Note: I go rogue at least once.

Superman: David Corenswet

Before Superman dropped earlier this month, DC fans complained about the new Superman suit, but I haven’t heard many people knock David Corenswet’s casting. He’s a relative unknown, which I like. Corenswet’s resume reminds me of Christopher Reeve’s before his stint as Supes. Corenswet happens to be the same height as Christopher Reeve (6’4″), too, and he looks the part. Time will tell if he can embody the Man of Steel.

Batman: Glen Powell

Batman is the first in a line of castings in which I wouldn’t mind seeing people reprise their roles. Heck, I would’ve liked to have seen Henry Cavill in another Superman movie. Batfleck is gone. He did a serviceable job with the material. Robert Pattinson is not going to be the DCU’s Batman either. That’s too bad. So, why not go with one of Hollywood’s new it boys, Glen Powell? He starred in the hit Top Gun: Maverick, has shown comedic range in the rom-com Anyone But You, and the dark comedy Hit Man. Powell would make a playboy out of Bruce Wayne, which’d be interesting. He also refuses to act in the MCU and has expressed interest in portraying Batman. That’s always a plus.

Speaking of pluses, I’m including a second choice as Batman: Winston Duke. He’s also expressed interest in portraying Batman on the big screen, and he’s already done so on a podcast. If Duke looks and sounds familiar, it’s because he plays M’Baku in the Black Panther franchise. I didn’t pick Duke as my top choice because James Gunn wants a Batman closer in age to Superman. Duke is over a decade older than Corenswet. Drat!

Even so, I could see Winston Duke playing Lucas “Luke” Fox taking over for Bruce Wayne. Luke is the son of Lucius Fox. I’d love to see Morgan Freeman reprise his role as the elder Fox to Duke’s younger Fox.

Wonder Woman: Elizabeth Debicki

Gal Gadot will not return as Wonder Woman. That’s too bad, but she may be too short. Wonder Woman is supposed to stand eye-to-eye with Superman, and the new Superman is three inches taller than Henry Cavill. Elizabeth Debicki won’t need heels. She’s also close in age to Corenswet and has experience acting in period pieces, which will come in handy with the direction James Gunn has planned for the DCU.

Gunn announced that a Paradise Lost Wonder Woman prequel series will debut before Diana returns to the big screen. This series will chronicle the Amazons of Themyscira years before Wonder Woman’s birth, with politics (like the ones in Game of Thrones) playing a big role, and these political exploits should continue after Wonder Woman’s introduction. Debicki’s turn as Diana, Princess of Wales, in The Crown is a perfect fit. And if this happens, Debicki will have portrayed Princess Diana and Wonder Woman’s alter-ego, Diana Prince. Fun!

The Flash: Elliot Page

I’ve seen fan-castings of Elliot Page as The Flash, and I’m on board. Have you seen him? He’s cut. And Hollywood tends to cast people with slighter frames to portray The Flash, so I can see it. A Page turn (lol) as the Crimson Speedster would give him a clean break from his previous work as Kitty Pryde in the X-Men movie franchise. There have been multiple people to don The Flash costume, so it doesn’t matter that Page is older than many other main cast members. I could also see Grant Gustin (who portrayed The Flash in the Arrowverse) reprise the role.

Green Lantern/Hal Jordan: Kyle Chandler

This is another DCU role I won’t have to fan-cast. James Gunn has confirmed Kyle Chandler as Hal Jordan in the upcoming Lanterns Max series. Chandler is best known as Eric Taylor in Friday Night Lights. He has an impressive resume and should give depth to an older Hal Jordan. The DCU could have Jordan’s Green Lantern train a younger John Stewart, who will also be featured in Lanterns. Gunn cast Chandler’s younger co-star from Friday Night Lights, Aaron Pierre to play John Stewart.

Yes! We’re getting two Green Lanterns in what should be an interstellar buddy cop show, Lanterns. Throw in Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner, and we have a party.

Aquaman: Ryan Murphy

Jason Momoa’s inclusion in the DCU confused me. At first, I thought Momoa would continue as Aquaman, but surprise, he’s playing Lobo. Honestly, Momoa makes a better Lobo than Aquaman. Instead of casting another acting veteran, I’m going with former Olympic swimmer Ryan Murphy. Decades ago, it was a tradition to cast a swimmer as Tarzan. Wouldn’t a professional swimmer make more sense as Aquaman? I don’t know if Ryan Murphy has any desire to act, but Murphy has the look for Arthur Curry.

Martian Manhunter: Sterling K. Brown

If Aaron Pierre wasn’t already cast as a young John Stewart (Green Lantern), I would’ve gone with Sterling K. Brown. Since John Stewart is off the table, I’m casting Sterling K. Brown (This Is Us) as Mars’s last son. Martian Manhunter has an origin akin to Superman’s, but his storyline is far more tragic; he watched his people die. The DCU will need an actor who can portray the trauma associated with Martian Manhunter’s origin. Brown would give the role some much-needed depth and gravitas.

Justice League Opponents

This next section will cover a handful of enemies the Justice League could face in their first few outings. We’re years away from knowing any details, so we’ll be throwing several things against this metaphorical wall. Which one of these castings do you hope sticks?

Darkseid: Christopher Judge

Known for his role as Kratos in the God of War video games, Christopher Judge has the perfect voice to portray Darkseid. Let’s face it. Darkseid will be mostly CGI, so whoever lends their voice to Darkseid matters most, but Judge also happens to be a former American Football player, so he could easily pull off a live-action Darkseid if needed. Judge has also done several voice-overs for Marvel characters, most notably Magneto in X-Men Evolution and in some video games, so he’s due for a DC Comics role. He has the presence for Darkseid.

Vandal Savage: Khary Payton

This is where I went rogue. I didn’t go with any of the casting rumors (Dave Bautista who portrayed Drax in Guardians of the Galaxy) or fan castings (Keanu Reeves or Johnny Depp). Khary Payton is a DC Animated Universe voice acting legend. He’s given Cyborg his voice for decades (Teen Titans and Teen Titans Go), but Payton’s resume doesn’t stop there: Aqualad, Brick, Robotman, Black Manta, and Black Lightning are a few other notable roles. Payton is so ubiquitous in the DC Animated Universe that he’s even portrayed himself. Ironically, Vandal Savage is one of the few DC Comics roles he hasn’t yet portrayed, but Payton has the talent, and we need to see him in more live-action roles besides Ezekiel in The Walking Dead.

Similarly, Vandal Savage is criminally underused in live-action DC Comics media. Payton has the range to bring a man who’s over 50,000 years old to life. Savage has also been known to disguise his voice. What better actor to take on a role like that than one who’s voiced almost every character in the DC Universe?

Ultra-Humanite: Dave Bautista

Dave Bautista is confirmed to portray a major DCU character. It isn’t confirmed who he’ll play. While many people think he may play Vandal Savage, I’d rather see Bautista as Ultra-Humanite. First, James Gunn teased Bautista’s inclusion in the DCU during promotion for Superman, which makes me think Bautista’s character will have a connection to the Man of Steel; Ultra-Humanite was the first super-powered villain Superman ever faced and has a professional rivalry with Lex Luthor. Second, Bautista doesn’t want to bulk up for roles anymore. Ultra-Humanite’s look will most likely happen with motion capture.

The guy pictured above and to the left was Ultra-Humanite before the failed science experiment transformed him into a monstrosity. Bautista even looks the part of a pre-accident Ultra-Humanite. I hope we see Ultra-Humanite in upcoming DCU movies. Despite being comics’ first super-powered villains, Ultra-Humanite is seldom seen in live-action projects.

Brainiac: Michael Emerson

Michael Emerson (Lost, Person of Interest) recently voiced Brainiac in the second season of Adult Swim’s My Adventures With Superman. Emerson’s turn as Brainiac differs from most others. Sure, he triggered Krypton’s demise after peace talks (between warring factions) began, and that tracks for the villain. But Emerson’s Brainiac takes villainy further by recovering Kara Zor-El (Supergirl and Superman’s cousin) and brainwashing her into believing she’s his daughter. Brainiac and Kara destroy entire worlds that refuse to comply with the killer android’s vision of perfection.

Emerson provides a captivating vocal performance, one with the calm and intelligence one would expect from Brainiac, but this slowly fades. Emerson’s Brainiac becomes unhinged and more emotional as his desire for perfection and compliance are disrupted by Superman and Supergirl (after she breaks free of Brainiac’s control). I’d love to see Emerson’s big screen portrayal of Brainiac, a role he was destined to play.

Lex Luthor: Nicholas Hoult

James Gunn threw me another bone for this one. Again, while writing this post, I have no idea what kind of performance Nicholas Hoult gave in Superman. You’ll have to read Geekly’s review to see our thoughts. But months prior to watching Superman, I’m excited to see Hoult’s portrayal of Lex. Hoult has a varied resume. He broke out in the brilliant BBC teen drama Skins in 2007. I liked him in the title role of Renfield, proving he has comedic chops, and Hoult has experience in comic book movies as Beast in the X-Men prequel movies.

The Joker: Crispin Glover

Truth time. I placed the Joker at the end of my list because the character could use a break from live-action movies. We’ve had five actors portray the Joker in live-action projects during the past seventeen years. The Joker makes eight appearances in movies during that same time frame. That’s a new Joker every three years, and the Joker has made an appearance in a live-action project every other year for almost two decades. Yowza!

That said, James Gunn has already announced that a new Joker will appear in the upcoming The Brave and The Bold movie. This movie could play akin to an anthology film, and Gunn prefers an older actor to portray the Joker. Crispin Glover is my pick for this role. First, he looks the part. Second, he has the acting chops and experience to pull off a layered Joker. Third, Glover is known for his unorthodox and sinister comedic roles. That sounds like a perfect Joker to me.

If the DCU were to go with a younger actor to portray the Joker, I’d pick Macaulay Culkin. Culkin hasn’t done much acting outside of voice work recently, but the roles he’s taken are bizarre to the point where they’re unhinged, and he’s known for his comedic timing. Culkin could make an interesting Joker.

That’s all I have. I’ll hand this post over to Skye and see what she has in store.

Skye’s Picks

Hello, Geekly Gang! I’m back again, this time to discuss my casting choices for the DC Universe. It’s taken a while for the DC film crew to find their footing, but lately they seem to be on the right track. Because of that, many folks are wondering who might portray future DC Comics characters. Kyra Kyle has already offered their excellent choices for cast members, and I’m searching Hollywood’s past and present for my DC Universe casting choices. 😉

Superman: Henry Fonda (Posthumously)

Henry Fonda would’ve been a great choice for Kal-El. It’s a shame he wasn’t able to play the role while he was still with us. Rest in peace. Henry Fonda often fought for truth, justice, and the American way in his movies. Just look at the classic, 12 Angry Men. While he doesn’t have the body type for Superman, Fonda has the character, and Christopher Reeve flew into our hearts in the original Superman film series despite not having an overly muscular frame, so it’s not entirely unbelievable. Also, Henry Fonda was from Nebraska, and it borders Kansas. Case closed. JK

Batman: Michael Keaton

It’s hard for me to let Keaton go, even all these years later. I shouldn’t have to defend this choice. To clarify, I’m casting young Michael Keaton in this role. If it were possible to travel back in time to cast 1989 Michael Keaton in this role, I would. No disrespect to the current Michael Keaton; time has a huge impact on people. While it was novel seeing him reprise his role in The Flash, the time gap between The Flash and Batman Returns took a toll on his performance. Now all I need is a time machine.

Wonder Woman: Audrey Hepburn (Posthumously)

Yes, Aubrey Hepburn as Wonder Woman is another impossible choice, but it’s still fun to imagine. Even if you’re unfamiliar with her work, you’ve at least heard the name “Audrey Hepburn.” She was easily one of the most beloved actresses in Hollywood in her time, and if comic book films were as popular then as they are now, she surely would’ve been cast as Wonder Woman. Not only did she have unparalleled on-screen charisma, but her dedication to her craft meant that she would’ve had the chops to pull it off, too.

The Flash: Grant Gustin

Snap back to reality. Oh, there goes gravity. Anyway, we’re back in the realm of possibility with Grant Gustin portraying The Flash. I was stuck for a while with casting The Flash unil I remembered Grant Gustin. I loved Gustin’s portrayal of The Flash in the Arrowverse. No one else could pull it off in my eyes. Now we’ve come full circle. Grant Gustin isn’t the only one who could play The Flash in the DCU, but he is the one I’d most like to see. Grant Gustin as The Flash could also be a nice way to tie up loose ends.

Green Lantern (Hal Jordan): Ryan Reynolds

Hear me out. Yes, I remember the 2011 Green Lantern. I saw it. Unfortunately. Ryan Reynolds returning to the role today could explore a lot. Not only has Reynolds proven that he has respect for comics, given his successful Deadpool film series, but Reynolds’ return to the Hal Jordan role would right a past wrong. James Gunn did a similar thing with 2021’s The Suicide Squad. Why not give him the chance with Ryan Reynolds’ Green Lantern? It could also be another opportunity for Reynolds to take the piss out of the 2011 movie. It’ll never not be funny.

Aquaman: Michael Clarke Duncan (Posthumously)

I had some difficulty casting Aquaman, too. The DCU shocked me when Jason Momoa was announced as Lobo. So many people had fallen in love with Momoa as Aquaman. I haven’t seen a movie studio recast an actor audiences loved as one character to a different character within the same universe. After some thought, I decided to give another actor in a disappointing comic book film a second chance. Michael Clarke Duncan did a good job as Kingpin in 2003’s Daredevil. Duncan was an amazing actor. I would’ve liked to see his portrayal of the Prince of Atlantis.

Martian Manhunter: Sidney Poitier (Posthumously)

Sidney Poitier is another prolific character actor who could’ve knocked his performance out of the park. As of this writing, I have yet to see a proper Martian Manhunter portrayed on the big screen. If the legendary Sidney Poitier was still with us, I would be lined up outside the door for a week. Across his nearly 60-year career, Poitier has given us several complex and layered performances, which is exactly what I would want for a character like J’onn J’onzz. To introduce a lesser-known character for movie-goers in a film, you gotta swing big. As we’ve seen with Mr. Terrific in Superman 2025, all you need is the right person for the role.

Darkseid: James Earl Jones (Posthumously)

James Earl Jones’s passing was recent, so it still kinda hurts. If he were here to give us Darkseid, James Earl Jones would’ve defined the character for generations of film and comic lovers, especially if the DC Universe built up the battle with Darkseid like Marvel did with Thanos. James Earl Jones as Darkseid would’ve been DC fans’ cinematic vindication. You don’t need to be a film buff to know Jones’s portrayal of iconic characters like Darth Vader and Mufasa. His role as Darth Vader specifically would’ve made him a shoo-in for Darkseid. Rest in Peace, legend.

Vandal Savage: Henry Cavill

Henry Cavill has experience acting in DC films. Since the DCU recast of Jason Momoa as Lobo, Henry Cavill as Vandal Savage wouldn’t be too big of a stretch. Cavill wants to branch out with his roles; Vandal Savage could theoretically work. He’s had time to show off his chops as Geralt from The Witcher series and has shown his dedication to the craft by criticizing the writers of the show for their lack of authenticity. Since we’re starting fresh, and with Cavill’s interest in playing Wolverine, Vandal Savage could be a great way to introduce a villainous Henry Cavill.

Ultra-Humanite: Tobin Bell

Tobin Bell (Jigsaw from the Saw series) as Ultra-Humanite might be out of left field. Yes is it. Even for me, Bell as Ultra-Humanite is kinda random. When the DCU introduces Ultra-Humanite in gorilla form, he’ll obviously be CGI. You could have a physical actor do motion capture with the voice actor in a recording booth. Bell’s distinctive voice could be distracting to some, but you can’t deny that he’s had decades of experience being a criminal mastermind. Bell’s demeanor would make a diabolical Ultra-Humanite. Who wants to play a game?

Brainiac: Colin Firth

Brainiac is an unfeeling extra-terrestrial obsessed only with observation and research at the expense of all life. Yeah, that’s Colin Firth all over. Firth hasn’t played a character quite like Brainiac yet, but I believe his filmography is proof enough that he could pull it off. Over the years, Firth has given us several different villains with unique motivations and complex histories. By jumping into this comic film role, he could get back into the public eye and remind us of true evil. I don’t think movie-goers are ready for this Brainiac.

Lex Luthor: George Clooney

DC has already chosen someone to play Lex Luthor. While Nicholas Hoult’s portrayal of the character was good (not perfect), George Clooney’s Lex Luthor could be a game-changer. Clooney in a DCU role is another acting second chance; he absolutely deserves one. After going down in comic infamy for his role in Batman and Robin, Clooney’s cool and calculating personality would be a great match for Luthor. He’s got the intellect, business-type attitude, and calculating demeanor. Clooney’s just gotta shave his head. That’s not too much to ask. Right?

The Joker: Tim Curry

I saved the best for last. Not just that, but I’m hoping DC takes its time deciding who they want to portray The Joker. I certainly did. What’s important about The Joker is that he’s the character who can make or break a film. If you don’t get The Joker right, you’re probably Jared Leto. The kind of Joker you cast plays a huge part in determining a movie’s tone. Why Tim Curry? First, he’s one of those actors who immediately make every film better. Second, Tim Curry has been practicing for The Joker role his entire career. Third, to see that realized on the big screen would be awesome. Take your time, though, DCU. We’re not desperate for a Joker right now.

Hey, hey! Kyra Kyle again. Those are our picks for certain DCU roles. Who would you cast in these roles? Which roles should we cast next? Let us know in the comments. Thank you for reading, and wherever you are, I hope you’re having a great day.