Mark Hughes of Forbes Worries Affleck May Exit Batman Role?

With the recent announcement that Affleck would no longer direct the solo Batman film, there has been some talk that he may eventually step down from the role completely. As of right now, the only announcement has been that Affleck will no longer direct the film. Rumors suggest that WB has several names being mentioned for the directing job, including Matt Reeves,Gavin O’Connor, Denis Villeneuve, Matt Ross, and George Miller. It was noted that Affleck stepped down in order to focus more on the other aspects of the production, notably the screenplay and starring role as Batman. But, he could end up stepping even further back in his involvement.

Batman v Superman, long production schedules, and the differences between DC and WB's public perception versus the creative frictions that are actually occurring behind the scenes. All of these factors point towards the possibility that Affleck could end up dropping out of the Batman role. Forbes writer Mark Hughes did an extensive look at the situation between Affleck and Warner Bros, including the poor reception towards, long production schedules, and the differences between DC and WB's public perception versus the creative frictions that are actually occurring behind the scenes. All of these factors point towards the possibility that Affleck could end up dropping out of the Batman role.

Hughes says that "Unfortunately, among the things I heard about his departure as director, I heard a few specifics that — if true — lead me to worry there is at least a chance Affleck could also walk away from starring in the picture. I don’t feel those concerns are as likely to bear fruit, and I still expect Affleck will finish the screenplay as planned and then start prepping for the role by getting into “Batman shape” to ensure he’s physically and mentally prepared for the role. That said, I do believe there’s a chance now that Affleck could depart the project as an actor, winding up merely serving as cowriter and producer."

It's not too surprising that Affleck has stepped down as the director, especially after his film Live By Night failed at the box office. But with rumored scripting issues, it appears it became necessary for him to step down from directing in order to focus on the script. If these issues don't get resolved, he could very well just walk away from the role. If not, this may very well be the last time that he appears as the character.