Pattinson Yearns to Don the Cape Again: "I Don’t Want to be Fucking Old Batman"
The anticipation surrounding Matt Reeves’ "The Batman" sequel has reached a fever pitch, with fans growing increasingly impatient as the release date continues to be pushed further into the future. Robert Pattinson, the man behind the cowl, is now echoing the sentiments of the frustrated fanbase, expressing his eagerness to reprise the role of the brooding Dark Knight before time slips away.
During a recent press tour for Bong Joon Ho’s upcoming film "Mickey 17," Pattinson, alongside co-star Naomi Ackie, engaged in a conversation with Hero Magazine about the rising popularity of unconventional and experimental films. Amidst this discussion, Ackie playfully inquired about Pattinson’s return as Batman, prompting a candid response that shed light on his own anxieties about the project’s prolonged development.
"The Batman Part II," initially slated for an October 2025 release, has since been delayed twice, first to October 2026 and most recently to October 2027. This series of postponements has understandably fueled fan frustration, and Pattinson’s recent remarks suggest he shares their disappointment.
"I fucking hope so," Pattinson exclaimed, when asked about reprising the role. "I started out as young Batman and I’m going to be fucking old Batman by the sequel."
Ackie playfully countered, pointing out that Pattinson’s age of 38 hardly qualifies him as "old." However, Pattinson’s response revealed a deeper concern about maintaining the physical and mental acuity required to portray the demanding character. He alluded to the rigorous lifestyle and dietary restrictions he adhered to in preparation for the first film, emphasizing the impact on his physical and cognitive well-being.
In a rather Bruce Wayne-esque manner, Pattinson quipped that he was actively working to lower his "biological age." Despite never undergoing an official test, Pattinson claimed that adopting a healthier lifestyle has rejuvenated him, at least in his own perception.
"In my mind I’m making it younger, but if I did it and they’re like, ‘Hmm, your biological age is like 80’—I don’t want to find that out," he joked. He then recounted the extreme measures he took to prepare for the role, including a restrictive diet devoid of even basic seasonings. "If I’m doing a job I can’t ever eat anything, even seasoning, I can’t have pepper," Pattinson revealed. "I ate nothing but salmon and avocado for like five months. It actually made my memory better. It genuinely did."
Pattinson’s commitment to the role is evident in his willingness to endure such sacrifices, highlighting his dedication to portraying a believable and compelling Batman. His concerns about aging underscore the physical and mental toll that the role demands, adding a layer of poignancy to his desire to begin filming the sequel sooner rather than later.
Adding to the sense of anticipation, Pattinson recently offered a promising update on "The Batman Part II" in an interview with Variety. He assured fans that the film would be "very cool" and "very exciting," tempering his enthusiasm with the caveat that filming is not expected to commence until "the end of the year."
While the wait for the sequel continues, DC fans have been able to satiate their Batman cravings with the HBO spin-off series, "The Penguin," starring Colin Farrell as the titular villain. Farrell’s portrayal of the grotesque and ambitious Oswald Cobblepot has garnered critical acclaim, earning him a Golden Globe Award.
However, despite the show’s success, Farrell has expressed a desire to conclude the Penguin’s story after the first season, preferring to see the character’s arc continue in "The Batman Part II." He voiced concerns about diluting the quality of the show with unnecessary extensions, emphasizing the completeness of the initial eight-episode run.
"We all left it in the ring in those eight hours. I would hate to, just because of a quote-unquote success, have to go again and for it to be a diluted version of what people seem to feel it is, majoritively. So I’m in no rush," Farrell told Variety. "I have no deep desire to do it… Sure, if they think of something that works in conjunction as a parallel to Matt Reeves’ cinematic universe and it’s a good idea, I’m open it. But it’s not something concerning me."
Farrell’s reluctance to commit to a second season underscores the artistic integrity he brings to the role, suggesting that he prioritizes quality over quantity. His preference for continuing the Penguin’s story within the framework of "The Batman Part II" aligns with the cohesive vision that Matt Reeves has established for this iteration of the Batman universe.
Assuming that "The Batman Part II" avoids any further delays, fans can finally look forward to witnessing Pattinson’s not-yet-elderly Batman facing off against Farrell’s Oz Cobb, continuing the gripping narrative that began in the first film. The prospect of seeing these two actors reprise their roles, further exploring the complex dynamics of Gotham City, remains a highly anticipated event for DC enthusiasts worldwide. The desire from both Pattinson and Farrell to ensure a high-quality continuation of the story only amplifies the excitement for what Matt Reeves has in store. The weight of expectation is heavy, but the talent and vision behind the project suggest that the wait will ultimately be worth it.
