Ben Affleck Is Batman for 'Man of Steel' Sequel

Ben Affleck has been cast as superhero comic Batman in Warner Bros.' Man of Steel sequel.

The Hollywood Reporter cited the press release sent out by the studio on Thursday. The famed director will join current Superman Henry Cavill in the film that is expected to open July 2015. Greg Silverman, Warner Bros.' president of creative development and worldwide production, reflected on the Argo director hire.

"We knew we needed an extraordinary actor to take on one of DC Comics' most enduringly popular superheroes, and Ben Affleck certainly fits that bill, and then some. His outstanding career is a testament to his talent, and we know he and Zack will bring new dimension to the duality of this character," Silverman said.

Affleck previously played the superhero in Daredevil which was released in 2003. It was considered a disappointment as it only made $180 million, a shortfall for most movies originated from comic books. In comparison, Man of Steel which was released in June has earned $650 million worldwide to date. Nonetheless, the powers that be of the project were confident that the 41-year-old Bostonian would do justice by the iconic character. George Clooney, Michael Keaton and Christian Bale have all donned the black tights and the director of the project felt Affleck would carry the mantle well.

"Ben provides an interesting counterbalance to Henry's Superman. He has the acting chops to create a layered portrayal of a man who is older and wiser than Clark Kent and bears the scars of a seasoned crime fighter, but retain the charm that the world sees in billionaire Bruce Wayne. I can't wait to work with him," Zach Synder said.