Manganiello's Memoir Details the Brutal Fate of the Scrapped Affleck Batman Film

Key points

• Manganiello states the scrapped film would have seen Deathstroke kill Commissioner Gordon and hold Alfred hostage after believing Batman killed his son.
• The plot included a two-on-one fight where Deathstroke nearly kills Batman and Batgirl before they escape via an aboveground train.
• The climax would have been a one-on-one showdown through the streets of Gotham, inspired by the 2013 video game 'Batman: Arkham Origins.'
• Manganiello credits the physical preparation for the role with helping him recover from a life-threatening illness that required the removal of his large intestine.
• Affleck, who was set to write, direct, produce, and star in the film, called the 'Justice League' reshoots the 'low point of my career' in a recent podcast appearance.

Background

This news follows the release of Manganiello's memoir 'Bloodlines' on Tuesday, October 18, 2026. The book details his seven-year battle with an autoimmune disease and his brief appearance as Deathstroke in 2017's 'Justice League.' Previous coverage noted that the canceled Affleck project was abandoned after his departure from the DCEU, with Warner Bros. eventually hiring Matt Reeves for a separate Batman film. The current DC Universe is developing a new Batman villain team-up movie featuring Bane and Deathstroke, though Manganiello is not expected to be involved.

How outlets are covering it

Variety and Gizmodo focus on the specific plot details revealed in the memoir, emphasizing the brutal nature of Deathstroke's revenge and the 'superhero version of David Fincher's The Game' comparison. SlashFilm provides broader context on the DCEU's inconsistent direction, noting that Manganiello was considered for multiple other projects, including 'Aquaman 2' and a 'Suicide Squad' sequel, before those plans also fell through. While Variety highlights Affleck's recent comments on the 'Justice League' reshoots, SlashFilm emphasizes Manganiello's personal health struggles and how the role contributed to his recovery.

Why it matters

The revelation offers a rare glimpse into the creative vision of the canceled DCEU Batman film, highlighting the potential for a darker, more personal narrative. It also underscores the impact of the DCEU's instability on actors and the long-term consequences of canceled projects on the DC Universe's continuity. Manganiello's account adds a personal dimension to the industry's struggles, linking his career trajectory to his health recovery.

What to watch

DC Studios is currently developing a 'Batman' villain team-up movie featuring Bane and Deathstroke for the DC Universe. It remains to be seen if Manganiello will be involved in this new project or if the role will be recast. The release of 'Bloodlines' may also influence future discussions about the DCEU's legacy and the potential for a reboot or continuation of the Affleck-led Batman story.