Deathstroke Actor Discusses Unmade Batman Film from the Snyderverse

Zack Snyder’s DC Expanded Universe had its ups and downs, but one thing fans can agree on is that Joe Manganiello was the perfect choice for Deathstroke. He was set to take on the role in a standalone Batman film alongside Ben Affleck, but his only appearance in the DCEU was a brief post-credit scene in 2017’s Justice League. Fans still lament the epic performance that never came to fruition.

It seems Manganiello reflects on this too. When asked about the cancellation of Affleck’s Batman movie, he candidly shared, “I lost my mind when that happened.” The disappointment of losing the role was compounded by the fact that he was battling an autoimmune disease at the time. He viewed the opportunity to play Deathstroke as a sign that he would be okay. “I took me being offered that role as the villain of Batman as the universe saying it’s gonna be okay,” he explained. “And when it went away, I didn’t have that to fight for anymore.”

Initially, Manganiello felt unlucky about the situation, but he has since gained a new perspective. He reflected, “I came to understand through the full journey that I was lucky to get it. It was never meant to be for me. It was there to make sure I didn’t stop fighting.”

Affleck has also opened up about his challenging experience with Justice League and the solo Batman film he was supposed to direct. He mentioned that friends were concerned he would “drink himself to death” if he continued with the project, leading him to step down as director in 2017. Matt Reeves eventually took the reins, reimagining the character with Robert Pattinson stepping into the role.

Meanwhile, James Gunn’s new DC Universe is taking shape, with several projects lined up, including a Deathstroke and Bane film titled Savage Hunters. Although Gunn has been cautious about bringing back actors from previous DC films, fans can’t help but hope for Manganiello’s return.

“I have that helmet from when I got to play him for the first time sitting in my office, and I look at it every day. It’s the greatest achievement of my life,” Manganiello said. “I’ve been to hell and back. You want a warrior? You know who to call.” Perhaps we haven’t seen the last of Manganiello’s Deathstroke after all.

What’s next for Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, and the rest in the new DCU?