Marvel and DC Studios have long mastered the art of breathing freshness into familiarity, cleverly subverting fan expectations to reinvigorate beloved storylines. Despite occupying different realms of the superhero spectrum, these studios share a common DNA, often blurring the lines between their respective universes. In fact, some heroes have even been known to cape-hop across the aisle. However, Jessica Barden knows where her heart lies, with her eyes on a DCU prize, harboring a secret ambition that sets her apart from her more cautious counterparts.

While superhero castings are a dime a dozen, Barden’s aspirations are uniquely specific. 

Hollywood is a magic machine that manufactures moonbeams, turning make-believe into box office gold. Since Tinseltown is no less than a dreamer’s paradise, when fiction meets fantasy, a superhero paradox takes flight. Although many refuse to touchdown once in the air, despite her successful career, Jessica Barden longs for a DCU landing that has surprised many. Barden rang in the New Year by hosting an impromptu Instagram Q&A when a user floated the idea that she would be a knockout as Batgirl.

While Barden was already fielding fan queries with excitement, this one took her notice as she responded, “Truly the best.” Before this, another fan approached the Dune: Prophecy star on whether she has any inclination to star in the DCU for any character. Though she was on the roll from the get-go, Batgirl’s reference prompted a tickle, sparking her enthusiastic reply that she would be down for it.

‘Dune’ Filmmaker Denis Villeneuve Explains Why Cell Phones Are a No-No on His Sets

Considering the DCU has played with fire last year with recruits that have fallen flat even after unbelievable hype, the confession had the rest of her fandom visibly polarized.

The comic book universe has been a source of entertainment where every update comes with its fair share of objection and negotiation. After James Gunn got the ducks in a row to re-imagine the DC Universe with a fresh slate of releases, and of course, new superheroes, the filmmaker had to work overtime to navigate his way into fan favoritism all over again. Thus, no matter who it is, every DCU update has potential opposition, and Jessica Barden’s dream did not come without one.

Many fans were ready to roll out the red carpet for Barden, but an equal chunk roped it back.

Debates are routine for everything associated with the comic book universe. The reasons have always been variable, but the trend of fan-casting has always been without a middle ground. Although it is rare to see actors clap back without mincing words, fans’ split reaction instills a worry about the after-effects of its possible materialization.

'Dune: Messiah' Taps This Oscar-Winning Cinematographer, Taking Over From Greig Fraser

What do you think of Jessica Barden's DCU aspiration? Let us know in the comments below!