Michael Keaton On His Possible Return As Batman: ‘I Don’t Think About It Much’

Michael Keaton slipping into the shoes of Batman one more time might be a dream come true for DC buffs. While the 72-year-old has not completely ruled out that option, the actor is not particularly enthusiastic about wearing the superhero costume again. During his latest appearance on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Michael Keaton opened up to host Josh Horowitz that his potential return as Batman will solely depend upon the circumstances. Keaton first starred in the 1989 film Batman, directed by Tim Burton, followed by Batman Returns in 1992. His most recent appearance was in the 2023 Andrés Muschietti directorial The Flash.

When Josh Horowitz wanted to know whether Michael Keaton was done with playing the Caped Crusader aka Batman, the actor gave a diplomatic answer. “I don’t think about it much. Never say never. I don’t think – everything’s dependent upon something else, I guess," he said. Although Keaton’s words do not confirm his return to an upcoming Batman film, there remains a possibility of him playing Bruce Wayne (Batman) if and when an opportunity comes his way.

In the same podcast, Michael Keaton also discussed about the cancellation of the superhero film Batgirl. The film which was on the verge of release was scrapped by Warner Bros. DC co-chair Peter Safran supported the decision, claiming that the Bilall Fallah and Adil El Arbi directorial “would have hurt DC" if it was premiered, reported Entertainment Weekly. Speaking with the host, Keaton, who was also involved in the unreleased film, essaying the pivotal role of Batman revealed that he only watched Batgirl in parts. “No. I saw parts of it, but it was a done deal," he said.

According to a report by Comicbook, Michael Keaton was set to return as Dark Knight in the axed Batgirl film, followed by other future movies in the Batman franchise. The actor was touted to play a mentor to younger superheroes, which was quite unlike his character in The Flash. While Batgirl was chalked out and The Flash failed to perform as per expectations in the theatres, plans for an upcoming Batman Beyond movie have now come to a full stop. If it ever happened, DC lovers would have seen Keaton as an aged Bruce Wayne, imparting training lessons to the younger Batman.