Robert Pattinson has been confirmed as the next Batman.
Variety reports that the actor – best known for playing teen heart-throbs in the Harry Potter and Twilight franchises – has signed on to take over the role. Warner Bros later confirmed the news.
Pattinson beat Nicholas Hoult, who was previously in the running, for the coveted position.
Deadline reports that Pattinson will play the Caped Crusader in a trilogy of films, with Matt Reeves (Dawn of Planet of the Apes) writing and directing the first.
Ben Affleck retired from the role earlier this year, having played the character in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, Suicide Squad and Justice League.
Affleck explained: “I tried to direct a version of it and worked with a really good screenwriter, but just couldn’t come up with a version, I couldn’t crack it,” he said. ”
So I thought it was time to let someone else take a shot at it. They got some really good people so I’m excited.”
Pattinson has edged away from starring in major franchise films in recent years, having breakout roles in High Life, Good Time and, more recently, the Cannes breakout The Lighthouse.
