Keanu Reeves Nearly Played a DC Superhero for Director Zack Snyder
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), it seems, is determined to find a role for just about every star in Hollywood. While Keanu Reeves has yet to play a Marvel hero, the actor very nearly took on a DC Comics character for director Zack Snyder. Here’s how he almost suited up as a DC superhero for what would have been the second time.
Keanu Reeves played his first superhero in 2005’s ‘Constantine’
After all, Reeves made his comic book movie debut in 2005’s Constantine. Based on DC Comics character John Constantine, the movie became a modest box office success. But in the years since its release, Constantine has gained a more devoted fan base. In fact, rumors have recently swirled about Reeves possibly reprising the role.
The DC Extended Universe (DCEU) is about to toy with the multiverse in 2022’s The Flash. Michael Keaton is already set to return as Batman for that movie, along with Ben Affleck’s DCEU version. So Warner Bros. might want to tie other previous movies in as well. If that’s the case, Reeves’ Constantine would be a good option.
Director Zack Snyder almost cast him in another DC film adaptation
Ironically, Snyder kicked off the DCEU with 2013’s Man of Steel. But he and Reeves’ near-collaboration predates even that movie. Rather, in between Constantine and the DCEU, Reeves was in contention to play Jon Osterman aka Doctor Manhattan in Snyder’s Watchmen. Billy Crudup wound up playing the role in the 2009 adaptation of the celebrated graphic novel.
Ahead of its release, Reeves told MTV he was interested in joining Watchmen. But for whatever reason, the project just “didn’t work out.” “I went to the set,” Reeves told MTV. “They were shooting in Vancouver while we were filming so I went over to the set to say, ‘hi.’ They showed me some stuff, and it looks amazing. I can’t wait. It’s going to be so killer, man.”
Reeves could be poised to switch to Marvel for his next superhero role
To this day, Reeves remains a loyal comic book fan. He’s even created his own, titled BRZRKR, which is currently in the works. However, Constantine remains his only chance of playing a comic book hero on screen. According to rumors, Marvel wants Reeves to join the MCU as Ghost Rider.
Like John Constantine, the character carries a similar focus on the occult and supernatural. Plus, Reeves shares Ghost Rider’s fondness for motorcycles. At this point, nothing is official. But fans wouldn’t be surprised to see Reeves pop up in either the DCEU or MCU sometime soon.
