Robert Pattinson Declined Interest in Joker Role
The actor explicitly deferred the iconic role to his former costar Barry Keoghan.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Film — General
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Robert Pattinson has addressed widespread fan requests for him to play the Joker, stating he is not interested in the role. He publicly deferred the character to Barry Keoghan, who currently portrays the villain in the film series directed by Matt Reeves.
Why it matters
The discussion emerged following Pattinson's critically acclaimed performance as a paranoid character in his upcoming film, Primetime. Fans cited his portrayal in that movie as reason enough to see him take on the iconic DC villain, a prospect the actor has formally rejected.
The film Primetime received a 9 out of 10 rating from IGN ahead of its theatrical debut. This precedes Pattinson's next scheduled appearance on the big screen in February 2028.
The players
Robert Pattinson
An actor known for his leading role in the Batman film series and his upcoming performance in the film Primetime.
Barry Keoghan
An actor who portrays the Joker within the film series directed by Matt Reeves.
Matt Reeves
A film director and producer known for his work on the current Batman film series set in Gotham.
The details
During a September 2026 interview, Pattinson was asked about the social media trend on platform X where fans petitioned for him to take on the role of the Joker. He maintained that he has no interest in the part and expressed his preference for Barry Keoghan to continue in the role.
Timeline
Pattinson and Keoghan filmed a scene together for The Batman in 2022.
Pattinson discussed fan requests for the Joker role on September 20, 2026.
The film Primetime releases in theaters on September 25, 2026.
Robert Pattinson is set to return to the screen in February 2028.
Industry Dynamics
This public rejection of a popular fan-cast role highlights the specific casting trajectory within the Matt Reeves Batman film series. It clarifies the creative boundaries for the franchise as it prepares to move in a different direction for upcoming installments.
Fans of the current Batman franchise can expect to see Barry Keoghan continue as the primary antagonist. Viewers interested in Pattinson's latest work can see him in Primetime starting September 25, 2026.
The takeaway
The separation of roles between Pattinson and Keoghan reinforces the distinct character arcs planned for the next chapter of the series. Fans should anticipate a new creative direction when the next Batman film eventually hits screens.
Further reading
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