Barry Keoghan, the Academy Award nominee, has strongly hinted at his return as The Joker in the upcoming DC sequel, The Batman 2. In an interview with Vanity Fair, Keoghan was asked about his career aspirations, where it was mentioned that he would be reprising his role as The Joker in DC's The Batman 2. Keoghan's non-denial essentially confirms his return as the iconic villain.
Keoghan expressed his desire for challenging roles that involve physical transformations, different voices, and unique character portrayals. He emphasized the importance of collaborating with filmmakers who are willing to take risks and bring a fresh approach to storytelling. The actor also mentioned his eagerness to push his limits and explore new performances that delve deeper into raw emotions.
Keoghan has already envisioned a backstory for his version of The Joker, aiming to offer audiences a fresh and unique portrayal of the character. Despite feeling intimidated by the role, especially in comparison to Heath Ledger's acclaimed performance, Keoghan is determined to bring his own interpretation to the iconic character.
In The Batman, Keoghan's Joker is depicted as tragically scarred, presenting a visually distinct take on the character. The actor hopes to continue exploring these differences in the upcoming sequel, building on the foundation laid in his brief appearance in the first film.
Director Matt Reeves has hinted at a unique approach to the Joker's character, suggesting a congenital disease that compels him to maintain a perpetual smile. This concept adds a layer of complexity to Keoghan's portrayal, setting it apart from previous iterations of the character.
The Batman - Part II is scheduled for release on October 3, 2025, promising fans a continuation of Keoghan's intriguing interpretation of The Joker.