James Gunn unequivocally denies the speculation surrounding a potential Joker television series featuring Barry Keoghan, emphasizing that there is “Absolutely no truth to this.” This statement puts to rest any hopes fans may have had for a new spin-off featuring the iconic character.

Amidst the buzz, there were unconfirmed reports suggesting that Barry Keoghan would reprise his role as the Joker in a television series set in the timeline between The Batman Part II and The Batman Part III. However, James Gunn, the co-head of DC Studios, swiftly dismissed these claims. In his post on Threads, he stated, “No, there is absolutely no truth to this.” He further clarified, “A Joker series is not being discussed nor has even come up at this time. Sorry.” This clear message reaffirms that there are currently no plans to explore a Joker series.

The recent success of The Penguin series had raised expectations that DC Studios might consider a Joker series to create a narrative bridge between the highly anticipated upcoming Batman films. However, Gunn’s definitive statement suggests that any such plans are off the table for now. This news may come as a disappointment to fans eager to see more of the Joker’s complex character development on screen, but it also highlights the studio’s current focus on other projects.

Barry Keoghan’s portrayal of the Joker was brief but impactful, as he appeared in one of the final scenes of Matt Reeves’ The Batman without being named. His character also featured in a deleted scene, released shortly after the film’s premiere, where Batman, played by Robert Pattinson, visits the Joker in Arkham Asylum to gain insights into Gotham’s latest villain, The Riddler. Director Matt Reeves explained that he cut this scene because it didn’t align with the overarching narrative of the film, though it offered a tantalizing glimpse into the Joker’s psyche.

Reeves elaborated on his decision to remove the scene, stating, “Not because anyone asked me to cut it, but [I didn’t think] it was necessary.” He described it as a “really cool scene” that involved Batman trying to profile the Riddler, who was sending him cryptic messages. The scene hinted at the Joker’s character development within the larger context of Gotham’s criminal landscape, showcasing the complex relationship between Batman and his enemies.

Further discussing the narrative implications, Reeves noted, “And you see him meeting with somebody who is obviously a serial killer himself, who, because it’s not Batman’s origin, but it is the origins of all these other characters, you’re seeing a version of this character who, yes, when you see the unknown prisoner, you’re like, ‘well, gee, I think that’s who that is.’ Well, that is who that is, but he’s not yet that character.” This reflection highlights the intricate storytelling that Reeves aims to weave throughout the series, providing depth to familiar characters.

While fans are eager for more of Keoghan’s Joker, Reeves has communicated that he cannot guarantee a recurring role for him. “I said to Barry, right from the beginning, ‘Look, I don’t know where this is going to go. I can’t promise that it’ll even ever come back. I don’t know,’” Reeves explained. This uncertainty adds an element of unpredictability to the future of the Joker in the series, as fans await more developments.

Filming for The Batman Part II is set to commence next year, with a release date scheduled for October 2, 2026. As anticipation builds, fans remain hopeful for further revelations about the Joker’s future role in the Batman franchise.