BATGIRL Star J.K. Simmons Explains How His Commissioner Gordon Role Differs To JUSTICE LEAGUE

J.K. Simmons first played Commissioner Gordon in 2017's Justice League, but when Ben Affleck decided not to star in and direct The Batman, that appeared to be it for the character. Fans got a few more frames of footage in the Snyder Cut, but it wasn't until Batgirl was announced that we learned the actor would get a second chance to play the Dark Knight's closest ally. 

During a recent interview with A.frame, Simmons revealed his reaction to being asked to reprise the role of Jim Gordon. "[It] really came as a complete surprise that they wanted me to be that guy again," he admits before praising co-star Leslie Grace. "She brings so much to it. "I completely agree about In the Heights. She was really charming and compelling and charismatic in that—and she brings all of that to Batgirl in addition to pretty kickass stunt skills."

Batgirl will explore Gordon's dynamic with his daughter, Barbara Gordon, and if the comic books are any indication, he'll have something to say about her suiting up as a vigilante! 

"The tiny role that Commissioner Gordon played in Justice League was very businesslike and very, 'Let's see if we can stave off the end of the world!'" Simmons explains. "What appealed to me about this movie was from Jim Gordon's point of voice, it's really more a story about him as a guy and as a father and not just about the guy who's turning on the Bat Signal and trying to keep the citizens of Gotham safe - although that's obviously also a part of the story."

"But it was a chance to delve into a different aspect of the character," the actor concluded.

Batgirl is directed by Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah from a screenplay by Christina Hodson (Birds of Prey). The expectation was that we might see the movie on HBO Max later this year, but with The Flash pushed into 2023, it's looking likely that the movie might also slip into next year. 

Are you excited to see more of Simmons as Gotham City's Commissioner?