While many fans envision Alan Ritchson stepping into the role of Batman, I believe he would be an excellent choice for a different hero in the revitalized DC Universe. Ritchson, acclaimed for his performances in projects such as *Reacher*, *Fast X*, and *Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles*, also possesses a rich history in the superhero genre, which makes him an ideal candidate for James Gunn and Peter Safran’s new vision for DC. His previous portrayals, including Aquaman in *Smallville* and Hawk in *Titans*, suggest he’s more than capable of taking on a fresh role.
Numerous actors have been floated as potential Bruce Waynes in the DC Universe, especially with the Caped Crusader expected to make his entrance in *The Brave and the Bold*, following a cameo in *Creature Commandos*. Although Alan Ritchson has gathered considerable support from fans for the role of Batman, I believe his talents would shine even more in an alternative superhero capacity.
Imagining Alan Ritchson as Shazam in the DCU
Ritchson as Billy Batson: A Perfect Fit
Known as Captain Marvel originally, Shazam is one of the foundational heroes of DC Comics, first appearing in *Whiz Comics #2* in 1940. The character represents the alter ego of young Billy Batson, who gains the powers of six immortal elders by uttering the word “SHAZAM!”This transformation turns him into a formidable superhero. Despite Shazam’s extensive legacy in comics, his live-action representation in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) fell flat, and I am eager to see a complete reimagining of the character in the upcoming DC Universe, with Ritchson at the helm.
Alan Ritchson possesses a dynamic range that expertly balances seriousness with humor, which is essential for portraying Shazam authentically. Unlike Zachary Levi’s portrayal, which many criticized for being overly juvenile, Ritchson could embody a version of Shazam that reflects his true comic character — one imbued with bravery and wisdom. His impressive physique and acting prowess would undoubtedly lead to a more genuine and captivating representation of Shazam.
The Importance of Shazam in the Rebooted DCU
Shazam’s Disappointment in the DCEU
In the 1940s, Shazam was arguably the most beloved superhero, eclipsing even Superman. However, this popularity didn’t translate to his live-action films in the DCEU. Although Zachary Levi delivered a solid performance, his portrayal highlighted several inconsistencies. Most notably, the accessible, immature personality of Levi’s Shazam skewed glaringly with the more mature depiction of Billy Batson, as played by Asher Angel, leading to confusion among fans about the character’s true nature.
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While the first *Shazam!* film from 2019 was reasonably well-received, its sequel, *Shazam! Fury of the Gods*, underperformed critically and commercially. The latter was largely considered a disappointment. Levi’s continued reliance on a juvenile portrayal, even two years into the story’s progression, felt dissonant and illustrated the character’s need for a significant redemption arc. Ritchson’s skill set makes him well-equipped to bring Shazam back to his former glory.
Why Alan Ritchson Deserves a Role in the DCU
A Talented Actor Ready for the DC Universe
With Batman’s presence confirmed in *Creature Commandos*, speculation about Ritchson’s potential casting as the Dark Knight has intensified due to his formidable physique. However, even if Ritchson does not don the cowl, he still deserves a significant role within the new DC Universe. Given his prior experience as Aquaman, he could feasibly step back into that role, especially following Jason Momoa’s shift to Lobo, or reprise his character Hawk from *Titans*, despite his character’s demise in season 3.
Ritchson’s possibilities are not limited to just these options. His name has also been linked to characters like Hawkman, Captain Atom, Metallo, and even Booster Gold, who is set to lead his own series in Gunn’s rebooted DCU. With Ritchson’s rising star power and acting skills, a role in this new landscape of DC characters seems almost destined, making him a prime candidate for any of these icons. Yet, personally, I would love to see Alan Ritchson take on the mantle of a reinvented Shazam.
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