Few things get DC fans as riled up as the age-old debate: who is going to play the next superhero? With James Gunn at the helm of a whole new DC Universe, the rumors are running rampant. Some castings are already set in stone, but many of the iconic heroes and villains are still on the table. And let’s be honest—fans aren’t afraid of sharing those fantasy cast lists. So, let’s break down ten casting choices that keep popping up in the fandom—pairings that feel like they were practically written in the stars. We’ll go countdown style, so grab your fancast bingo cards.
10. Ben Schwartz as Plastic Man
The DCU can benefit from a dash of goofball comedy, and nobody is better suited to the task than Ben Schwartz. With Parks and Recreation and voice work on Sonic under his belt, Schwartz possesses the ideal combination of mayhem and magnetism to turn the stretchy, ex-convict superhero into a star. Plastic Man is that kind of character that hasn’t been introduced to mainstream audiences yet, but Schwartz can make him the instant darling of fans.
9. Ana de Armas as Catwoman
Selina Kyle is both danger and temptation, and Ana de Armas can portray both with such ease. From Blade Runner 2049 to No Time to Die, she’s shown that she can make elegant, mysterious, and deadly work. Catwoman demands a performer capable of keeping fans on their toes—and de Armas is the perfect candidate for that job.
8. Patrick Wilson as Aquaman
Jason Momoa provided us with a rock-and-roll Aquaman, but Patrick Wilson always seemed to have stepped out of the comic books. Ironically, he also played Orm in the earlier films, but even Momoa himself said that Wilson could’ve aced Arthur Curry. With Momoa apparently considering Lobo, perhaps it’s time Wilson finally took the trident.
7. Alan Ritchson as Batman
If the new DCU desires a Batman who appears to actually be able to body-slam Bane, Alan Ritchson is the choice. The Reacher actor is hulking and has the sort of brooding gravitas Bruce Wayne requires. His tallness, physique, and take-no-prisoners attitude would cause Gotham’s underworld to quake.
6. Jack Quaid as The Flash
The Scarlet Speedster requires humor, heart, and a little bit of awkwardness. Jack Quaid possesses all three. His performances on The Boys prove he can balance comedy and drama, making him an obvious choice for Barry Allen—or even Wally West. Fans already make jokes about Quaid’s link to speedsters, so let’s give him the part for real.
5. May Calamawy as Wonder Woman
Casting Diana is no easy feat, but May Calamawy seems like a perfect fit. She’s already proven she can do action in Moon Knight and possesses the regal bearing to command Themyscira. With both cultural richness and superhero validity, Calamawy might lead Wonder Woman into a new era of greatness.
4. Aidan Gallagher as Robin (Damian Wayne)
Damian Wayne is a challenging part—to be equal parts arrogant, deadly, and genial. Aidan Gallagher already demonstrated in The Umbrella Academy that he is capable of portraying a boy who is intelligent beyond his years and slightly intimidating at the same time. He could easily bring Damian’s intensity into play, making him a standout among the Bat-family.
3. Drake Rodger as Nightwing
Fans have been clamoring for a proper Nightwing for ages, and Drake Rodger seems ready to answer the call. Best known from The Winchesters, he’s even trained with escrima sticks just in case the opportunity arises. That dedication, paired with his on-screen presence, makes him a natural Dick Grayson.
2. Harry Goodwin as Green Arrow
The Emerald Archer has been missing on the big screen for far too long. Come in, Harry Goodwins, who has been openly lobbying for the role. With the appearance, the swagger, and an action film resume in movies like The Gentlemen, he’s an actual Oliver Queen in real life already.
1. Jensen Ackles as Batman
For years, the crowd has been beating the drum for the one casting above the rest: Jensen Ackles as Batman. With his stints on Supernatural, his appearance as Soldier Boy in The Boys, and his voice work as Batman in animation, Ackles has the range, the grit, and the fanbase to finally don the cowl. If DC needs a surefire hit, this is the call.
And there it is—ten castings that would drive the fandom into a frenzy (in the best possible way). Whether or not James Gunn will make these dreams come true, only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure: the fan campaigns aren’t going to slow down anytime soon.