Ben Affleck’s debut in the DC Extended Universe was in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, a film that became a massive box office success that failed to connect with critics and audiences at large. Coming off the massively successful series of Batman films from Chris Nolan, Affleck had his work cut out for him, with the disappointing reception of his debut casting doubt on the future of the franchise.
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Unfortunately, the actor’s second entry in the franchise was another critical disappointment, with Justice League also failing to make a major dent at the box office. The actor was still attached to a solo Batman film, yet he handed over directorial duties to Matt Reeves, leaving fans to speculate if this also meant he would no longer be starring in the film.
Affleck took to social media to share a report about the upcoming film, which implied he was abandoning the project entirely, essentially confirming that he wouldn’t be starring in the film, despite the studio not giving an official response on the matter.
Scroll down to see fan reactions about Affleck bowing out of The Batman!
No More Excitement
Ben Affleck’s portrayal of Batman is my favorite. He’s the reason why I wanted to see another solo, I didn’t want to watch yet another Batman film but he was so great in the role that I wanted to see him on screen again. Now he’s gone, and what excitement I had left is gone too
โ donnia (@fincherism) January 31, 2019
Gut Punch
Writing has been on the wall for a while with Ben Affleck and Batman. But even still, finally getting the confirmation still feels like a gut punch
โ Sheraz Farooqi (@SherazFarooqi_) January 31, 2019
His role in Batman v Superman, Suicide Squad was the closest to comic book Batman weโve seen. Kinda missed out on something special
Thanks
thanks Ben Affleck for being my all-around favorite Bruce Wayne/Batman pic.twitter.com/0YAV38GFYP
โ ????? (@edmachina) January 31, 2019
Long Time Coming
Ben Affleck being done with Batman has been a long time coming sadly. To me he IS the best Live Action Batman we have ever had. Thank you Ben! pic.twitter.com/w70qdvdwfj
โ Chainsaw Reacts (@ChainsawReacts) January 31, 2019
Sad Goodbye
ben affleck really ended with justice league thats wild
โ RIP Scorpo (@Arkham_Scorpo) January 31, 2019
Good Riddance
Ben Affleck was the worst Batman of all time. pic.twitter.com/CD0gkIX1GU
โ Dr. Victoria Dooley (@DrDooleyMD) January 31, 2019
Missed Opportunities
Ben Affleckโs Batman in BvS is my favorite on screen Batman and itโs a shame that we will never see that portrayal in a well put together film
โ Nerd Soup Aaron (@nerdsoupmonkey) January 31, 2019
A Disappointment
Say what you will about the DC movies but Ben Affleck was a terrific Batman/Bruce Wayne and Henry Cavill was a superb Superman/Clark Kent. Losing them both from the DCEU is truly disappointing. pic.twitter.com/qxzJZhcO7V
โ Doug Jamieson (@itsdougjam) January 31, 2019
Friendly Reminder
friendly reminder that ben affleck gave us the best performance of bruce wayne and batman ? pic.twitter.com/WCafPoqKQ2
โ bri jr? (@jxsticeleagues) January 31, 2019
A Damn Shame
Itโs official, Ben Affleck is no longer Batman.
โ Roy-chell Ray (@TheRealFTA) January 31, 2019
Itโs a damn shame he never got to be Batman in an actually good movie.
BvS is a steaming pile of crap, but his Batman was outstanding.