The Batman's Original Script Reportedly Included The Joker, Other DC Villains

02/08/2017 06:31 pm EST

The past month has been a turbulent one for Ben Affleck's Batman movie. The star publicly left the project's directorial position, and fans were left pointing fingers about what might have prompted the star's move. With no director in sight, The Batman is heading towards a total creative overhaul as Warner Bros. reassess the movie's script and storylines. Over at Forbes, noted reporter Mark Hughes just published an in-depth exploration of the film's future, and the journalist revealed a surprising tidbit of Batman trivia which came from his sources.

According to the Forbes article, Hughes wrote that "sources familiar with the project" told him a slew of villains were expected to star in the movie. While fans knew that Deathstroke would be part of the project thanks to Joe Manganiello, other iconic villains like the Joker were also written into the script.

You can read Mark Hughes' full quote below:

"The story for The Batman originally included the assassin Deathstroke as a main villain, with Joe Manganiello cast in the role, as well as a few other likely villainous appearances by characters including the Joker, according to sources familiar with the project. Jared Leto, who portrayed the Joker in Suicide Squad, has for months expressed his displeasure about the removal of substantial portions of his performance from the final cut of the film, raising questions about whether he would return to the role in future movies. He seems to have softened his stance lately and appears interested in a possible return, but whether he will ultimately be part of The Batman or Gotham City Sirens remains to be seen."

Based on this description, it looks like The Batman may have intended to have a more 'Arkham Asylum' feel with the vigilante being pitted against his worst enemies should this report be accurate. As for how much of the original story makes it to the film's final cut, fans cannot be sure. In the same Forbes article, Hughes stressed that sources close to The Batman are unsure how the script will be affected as a new director is brought in. The piece would be completely rewritten or simply undergo another revision in light of Warner Brother's moving theatrical schedule.

For those of you who are not caught up to speed on Affleck's departure as the film's director, you can read the star's statement below:

"There are certain characters who hold a special place in the hearts of millions. 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."

More BATMAN: 5 Directors that Could Replace Ben Affleck / Why WB Should Respect Ben Affleck's Vision / Green Lantern Rumored For Justice League / Zack Snyder Reveals New Look At Wonder Woman In Justice League / Ben Affleck Assembles The Batman League In All Batmen Mashup / Amy Adams Talks Batman V Superman Extended Cut And Justice League

Justice League will open in theaters on November 17, 2017. The Batman release date is TBD.

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