The newest Hollywood version of the Caped Crusader will be Oscar-winning Ben Affleck, Warner Bros. announced on Thursday.
The next in the Batman series, to be released in 2015, will feature the Superman character, too, in a mash-up that’s generated widespread interest.
But with Mr. Affleck as Batman, social media commenters are already expressing outrage.
“Ben Affleck is the new Batman in the Superman mashup – really? Pee-wee herman wasn’t available?” tweeted Keeley Ibrahim, the New York Post reported.
Another Twitter poster commented: “Ben Affleck officially cast as Batman in the Man of Steel sequel. For the first time in history, I kind of want Superman to win.”
And a third: “Ben Affleck is the new Batman … haha …. No … just … no …”
And one more: “Ben Affleck as Batman. Does that mean Matt Damon will play Robin?”
Talk of Christian Bale’s replacement as the Batman character had gone on for weeks. The “Dark Knight” hero turned down a $50 million offer to return to the role, the Post reported. Orlando Bloom, Luke Evans and Scott Adkins were also considered.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.