"Batman vs. Superman" speculation has been in full swing as production dates draw closer, but a particular rumor questions Ben Affleck's role in the "Man of Steel" series.
Forbes reports Affleck could have dropped his directorial engagement with "The Middle Man" to take on another "Man of Steel" project: a "Justice League" film.
According to Forbes, Affleck was previously offered the opportunity to direct a "Justice League". However, the filmmaker turned down the reported offer and the movie was eventually shelved:
"[Affleck] was their top choice at the time. Additionally, the schedule could make it hard for Snyder to helm both films. And a big hint might've come from the news this week that Affleck has pulled out of directing The Middle Man pilot - and if that was merely due to his role in Batman vs. Superman, why did it take this many months for him to withdraw, since shooting for the movie has actually barely been delayed at all (and it still has a shot at starting on time after all, it seems)? Perhaps Affleck's schedule is being rearranged to make room for a Justice League directing job."
Affleck has continuously received fan backlash since director Zack Snyder announced he would be taking on the role of Batman. The actor recently talked to PlayBoy magazine about the Internet criticism, reassuring fans he wouldn't have taken on the role if he believed he wasn't a good fit.
"I understand I'm at a disadvantage with the Internet. If I thought the result would be another Daredevil, I'd be out there picketing myself. [laughs] Why would I make the movie if I didn't think it was going to be good and that I could be good in it," Affleck told the magazine.
"I don't want to give away too much, but the idea for the new Batman is to redefine him in a way that doesn't compete with the Bale and Chris Nolan Batman but still exists within the Batman canon," Affleck said. "It will be an older and wiser version, particularly as he relates to Henry Cavill's Superman character."
"Batman vs. Superman" will hit theaters on May 6, 2016.
Do you think Ben Affleck could be directing an installment in the "Man of Steel" series? Leave us your thoughts in the comments section below.
