Since entering treatment last year, Miller has largely managed to stay under the radar and not generate additional negative headlines. But before seeking treatment, unsubstantiated rumors abounded that Warner Bros. and DC could eventually recast the role – or even scrap the film entirely. Warner Bros. seems to be hoping audiences are excited enough to see Michael Keaton return as Batman that Miller’s high-profile issues will be pushed aside. It certainly doesn’t hurt that early reactions to “The Flash” have been largely glowing. It looks like the studio has a crowd pleaser on their hands.
On the other hand, it’s not like recasting the role is impossible if the powers that be want to leave Miller. Marvel recast Rhodey in “Iron Man 2,” with Don Cheadle taking over for Terrance Howard, and it worked out pretty well. Rachel Dawes was also recast from “Batman Begins” to “The Dark Knight”, with Maggie Gyllenhaal taking over from Katie Holmes. Then again, that would be an A-list character and a situation that got a lot of attention.
Either way, Muschietti seems to have made up his mind, assuming he’s sticking around to direct a potential sequel – though the casting decision may not be his. Gunn and Safran are now in charge of DC Studios, and they seem to be ditching nearly every actor from the Zack Snyder era. Perhaps the new DCU continuity will allow a new actor to take over from Barry Allen without too much hubbub. The bottom line is that Miller may well have a chance of keeping a very bankable job despite everything that’s happened, for better or for worse.
“The Flash” is set to hit theaters on June 16, 2023.