The DCU is gearing up, but where's Nightwing? While James Gunn's vision for the DC Universe is still unfolding, the absence of Dick Grayson on the big screen feels like a missed opportunity. We've been eagerly awaiting Nightwing's cinematic debut, and thankfully, there's a roster of talented actors who could truly embody the spirit of Dick Grayson.
But here's where it gets interesting: The upcoming movie, The Brave and the Bold, is reportedly focusing on Batman and his son, Damian Wayne, who's been trained by the League of Assassins. This implies that previous Robins, including Dick Grayson, Jason Todd, and Tim Drake, have already had their turns in the DCU, likely off-screen. This creative choice is definitely up for debate – how well will it serve the established lore? However, it does open the door for DC Studios to immediately shine a spotlight on Dick Grayson's solo journey.
We've put together a list of actors who we believe possess the charisma, skill, and presence to bring the iconic Nightwing to life. Whether they join The Brave and the Bold or headline their own future film, these performers would be a fantastic addition to the DCU. The clock is ticking, though, as Dick Grayson is typically depicted as a young adult, ideally in his late teens or early twenties, for his transition into Nightwing.
Let's dive into who could potentially don the mask and escrima sticks!
6. Walker Scobell
Fresh off acclaimed performances in Secret Headquarters and The Adam Project, Walker Scobell has solidified his status as a rising young star with leading-man potential, particularly evident in Disney+'s Percy Jackson and the Olympians. It's easy to picture a younger Scobell stepping into the shoes of Robin. But could he convincingly portray Nightwing? We certainly think he has the raw talent to embody a Dick Grayson who has just begun to forge his own path, separate from Batman's shadow. Scobell has also demonstrated a knack for action sequences, making us eager to see him wield Nightwing's signature escrima sticks, a worthy successor to Percy Jackson's sword.
5. Louis Partridge
Louis Partridge has become a familiar face thanks to his role in Netflix's Enola Holmes franchise, with additional credits in Disclaimer and House of Guinness. He possesses the ideal mature look that would perfectly suit a Dick Grayson who has already spent several years as Nightwing. Dick Grayson is a character grappling with significant internal conflict, especially his initial complex feelings towards Batman after deciding to break free from his mentor's direct guidance as Robin. Partridge's acting prowess suggests he could explore this nuanced dynamic in a way that is both relatable and believable. After all, Bruce Wayne himself envisions Dick as a potential successor to the Batman mantle.
4. Kit Connor
Kit Connor has long been a fan favorite, with many hoping to see him portray Marvel's Hulking alongside his Heartstopper co-star Joe Locke. It feels like he's overdue for a superhero role, and his performance in Warfare only reinforced that sentiment. He would undoubtedly make a stellar Nightwing. It's crucial to remember that before becoming Bruce Wayne's ward, Dick Grayson was just an ordinary kid. This aspect was beautifully captured in Mark Waid and Chris Samnee's Batman & Robin: Year One. Connor possesses an 'everyman' quality that makes him a natural fit for Dick's grounded origins. Simultaneously, we can easily envision him patrolling the gritty streets of Blüdhaven as the formidable Nightwing.
3. Liam Woodrum
Liam Woodrum might not be the most widely recognized name on this list, but that could actually work to his advantage. DC Studios has a track record of casting lesser-known, and perhaps more budget-friendly, actors in the DCU, and as proven by David Corenswet as Superman, this approach can yield fantastic results. Woodrum has delivered impressive performances in Geek Girl, Based on a True Story, and 213 Bones. While taking on Nightwing would be a significant challenge, if he can bring the necessary depth to the role, he absolutely deserves a chance. He has the right look and the potential to grow into the character as Dick Grayson himself gains confidence as a crime-fighter and evolves beyond being merely Batman's sidekick, becoming a hero who can stand up to his mentor without hesitation.
2. Mason Thames
Mason Thames' star is rapidly ascending, with his compelling performance in How to Train Your Dragon establishing him as a young actor capable of carrying a franchise. While Hiccup and Nightwing might not share many similarities beyond a tenacious spirit, this could be precisely what Thames brings to the role. Gotham City and its inhabitants are often portrayed with a dark, almost somber, tone. While this isn't inherently bad, Dick Grayson's emergence from Batman's shadow should be accompanied by a lighter, more energetic approach to heroism. The very essence of Dick's appeal as Robin was the contrast he provided to Batman's brooding nature, making him an exceptional sidekick. With an actor like Thames, we anticipate a compelling blend of humor and high-octane action, which is essential for any authentic portrayal of Nightwing.
1. Asher Angel
Asher Angel made a memorable impression in Shazam!. In fact, by the time Shazam! Fury of the Gods arrived, many DC fans believed he would have been a more fitting Shazam than Zachary Levi. While it would be exciting to see James Gunn cast him in that role within the DCU, let's be honest, he would also make a phenomenal Nightwing. His performances in Darby and the Dead and Lazareth showcase his impressive range, and Angel possesses all the necessary qualities to do justice to Dick Grayson in live-action. He's long overdue for a major leading role, and whether it's in The Brave and the Bold or his own standalone project, it's hard to imagine anyone objecting to Angel bringing Nightwing to the screen.
What do you think? Are there any actors you feel were missed on this list? Do you agree with our picks for who should be the DCU's Nightwing? Let us know in the comments below!
