Gunn watches 1923 because he likes “Taylor Sheridan’s stuff, especially that one.” In a recent conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, Gunn has made something very clear about watching the show while the public speculates about the Batman casting. According to the director, you shouldn’t get your hopes up about Brandon Sklenar, the actor playing Spencer Dutton in the Yellowstone universe, becoming Bruce Wayne:

“I’m definitely not doing scouting for the Caped Crusader. But I’m always scouting when I’m watching TV shows. In fact, I really like the young woman [Julia Schlaepfer] in 1923. She is just so fantastic that I suggested her for something recently. She’s Brandon’s [Sklenar] significant other in that series.

“I’m watching [1923] because I like Taylor Sheridan’s stuff, especially that one. That’s my favorite of all his shows. So I’m watching it mostly for fun, and I’m definitely not watching it because I need to find a Batman. By the way, I love [Sklenar]. I think he’s great. I really do. I honestly think he’s great.”

The director also addressed his current position as head of DC Studios, and how this relates to his past role in the Marvel universe. Gunn was a huge part of the MCU, as he directed the three Guardians of the Galaxy entries, as well as The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special. When asked if he now understands the role of Marvel boss Kevin Feige, and the constant pressure he faces when making divisive franchise decisions, Gunn answers:

“Yes, it’s mostly in the day-to-day thoughtfulness of Kevin Feige and talking to him and seeing him sitting there, thinking. I often see myself doing the same thing with directors or writers. So I understand Kevin more [now], and I’ve learned a lot from him. I always liked Kevin. I never had problems with Kevin in terms of working with him. It was a really, really good partnership…I probably have a little bit more compassion for him in that respect because things shift and change all the time. It’s hard.”

The Casting of the Next Batman Will Likely Be Controversial

There’s no doubt that Gunn faces a challenge when trying to come up with the next Dark Knight. All decisions of this caliber, especially in the superhero genre, are often met with backlash from fans who dislike the directions their favorite franchises take. It happened with this year’s reveal of the new Superman, Lex Luthor, and even Supergirl. Batman won’t be any different.

Hopefully, Gunn’s vision for the DCU will continue to be as unique as 2025’s Superman teased. Whether it’s Brandon Sklenar, or Alan Ritchson, as many have been campaigning for, or someone else entirely, the next Batman will fight crime within Gunn’s brighter, more hopeful take on the revamped DC universe, the DCU.