Batman Movie: Ben Affleck Is Out?

Update: It’s reported WB has confirmed Ben Affleck will be back as Batman.

Update #2: Ben Affleck welcomed Matt Reeves to the Batcave on Twitter.

Warner Bros. has announced that Matt Reeves will both direct and produce the upcoming solo Batman movie, which sees Matt Reeves take over from Ben Affleck.

Curiously, the official press release from Warner Bros. makes no mention of Ben Affleck starring in the Batman, producing the Batman or co-writing the Batman, which is leading to further speculation that following Justice League, Ben Affleck will no longer be a part of the DCEU or attached to the Batman character.

Movie press releases typically contain information related to who is starring in the film, writing the film, etc., but WB’s Matt Reeves Batman press release makes no mention, which may mean a new actor will be cast as Batman, and that a new Batman script will be written.

It’s actually already been said that Batman vs. Superman and Justice League screenwriter Chris Terrio has written a new Batman movie script, with rumors also stating that Ben Affleck wants out of the Batman role.

When Ben Affleck officially announced he had departed the Batman director’s chair, he did state is staying on in the role and is “extremely committed” to Batman:

There are certain characters who hold a special place in the hearts of millions,” Ben Affleck said in a statement. “Performing this role demands focus, passion and the very best performance I can give. It has become clear that I cannot do both jobs to the level they require. Together with the studio, I have decided to find a partner in a director who will collaborate with me on this massive film. I am still in this, and we are making it, but we are currently looking for a director. I remain extremely committed to this project, and look forward to bringing this to life for fans around the world.  

Here is the official Matt Reeves press release, which makes no mention of Ben Affleck:

MATT REEVES TO DIRECT AND PRODUCE “THE BATMAN”

(February 23, 2017 – Burbank, CA) – Warner Bros. Pictures announced today that Matt Reeves (“Dawn of the Planet of the Apes,” “Cloverfield”) has been set to direct “The Batman.” Reeves will also serve as a producer on the new standalone action adventure centering on one of DC’s most enduringly popular Super Heroes. The announcement was made by Toby Emmerich, President and Chief Content Officer, Warner Bros. Pictures Group.

Emmerich stated, “We are thrilled to have Matt Reeves taking the helm of Batman, the crown jewel of our DC slate. Matt’s deep roots in genre films and his evolution into an emotional world-building director make him the perfect filmmaker to guide the Dark Knight through this next journey.”

Matt Reeves noted, “I have loved the Batman story since I was a child. He is such an iconic and compelling character, and one that resonates with me deeply. I am incredibly honored and excited to be working with Warner Bros. to bring an epic and emotional new take on the Caped Crusader to the big screen.”

Batman was created by Bob Kane with Bill Finger.

“The Batman” will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.