30 years after starring in Batman Returns, Michael Keaton is returning to the DC Films Universe as Batman. The actor will first reprise the role in The Flash, which, as The Hollywood Reporter revealed, is expected to set up his version of Bruce Wayne as a prominent presence in the DCEU moving forward. Keaton will then appear in HBO Max's Batgirl movie starring Leslie Grace.
Unlike his part in Barry Allen's solo adventure, not much has been revealed about his involvement in Batgirl. Earlier this year, a set picture from the film surfaced online, featuring a mural of what looked like Keaton's Caped Crusader alongside (an unidentified) Robin. It made fans wonder if he actor would get to suit up as the Dark Knight once again, or whether he would play a more mentor-oriented role for Barbara Gordon, similar to how he was portrayed in the Batman Beyond television series.
The nature of Keaton's role in the film is still largely unclear, but it looks like the actor will indeed get back into the batsuit. The Batgirl Film News Twitter page recently shared some set pictures from Batgirl, showing what looks like Michael Keaton's Bruce Wayne in his signature costume:
The pictures are blurry, so it's difficult to make out any significant details, but the suit does look similar to the one Keaton sported in Tim Burton's 1989 movie. It's worth mentioning that Keaton may not necessarily be the person in the suit here, as it could be a stunt double.
Now, before getting excited about Keaton's Batman still being active in the DCEU, it's possible that this is simply a flashback scene. Granted, it's not outside the realm of possibility that the Dark Knight is still out there fighting crime. There have been, after all, versions of the character that have continued their superhero crusades into an advanced age.
Michael Keaton is not the only actor returning to their DC role for Batgirl. He will be joined by J.K. Simmons, who will reprise his role as Gotham City Police Commissioner Jim Gordon — Barbara Gordon's father — following his appearance in 2017's Justice League and 2021's Zack Snyder's Justice League.
Batgirl doesn't have a release date yet, but it's expected to drop on HBO Max at some point in 2022.