Stellan Skarsgård Reportedly Declines Role in The Batman Part II

Key Points

• Rumors suggest Stellan Skarsgård turned down a role in Matt Reeves’ The Batman Part II.
• The role was reportedly Christopher Dent, father of Harvey Dent.
• The film has already added Scarlett Johansson and Sebastian Stan to its cast.
• Production is expected to begin in Spring 2026, with a release date set for October 1, 2027.
• Harvey Dent is rumored to be played by Sebastian Stan, with Johansson speculated to portray Gilda Dent.

Skarsgård Passes on Gotham Role

According to insider Jeff Sneider on The Hot Mic podcast, Oscar-nominated actor Stellan Skarsgård has declined an offer to join The Batman Part II. The role in question was reportedly Christopher Dent, father of Harvey Dent.

Skarsgård, known to Marvel fans for his portrayal of Dr. Erik Selvig in the Thor films, would have joined fellow MCU alumni Scarlett Johansson and Sebastian Stan, who are already attached to the project.

Casting Rumors and Speculation

While Christopher Dent remains uncast, Harvey Dent himself is rumored to be played by Sebastian Stan, marking his transition from Marvel’s Winter Soldier to Gotham’s infamous district attorney-turned-criminal. Johansson is speculated to portray Gilda Dent, Harvey’s wife.

Earlier reports suggested Brad Pitt was also considered for Christopher Dent but declined due to scheduling conflicts.

Production Timeline

Director Matt Reeves is returning to helm the sequel, co-writing the script with Mattson Tomlin. In an interview with Variety, Reeves confirmed filming will begin late April or early May 2026.

The film is scheduled to premiere in theaters on October 1, 2027, continuing Reeves’ gritty reimagining of Gotham City.

Context: MCU Meets DC

The casting of Johansson and Stan highlights a growing trend of actors crossing between Marvel and DC franchises. Skarsgård’s decision to pass on the role leaves one of the film’s key supporting characters still open, fueling speculation about who might ultimately step into the part.

What Happens Next?

With production gearing up, Warner Bros. is expected to finalize casting announcements in the coming months. Fans will be watching closely to see who takes on the role of Christopher Dent and how Reeves expands the world of Gotham in The Batman Part II.