The Batman 2: Exploring Alfred's Story and Serkis' Hope

One DC actor, Andy Serkis, holds a significant hope for The Batman 2, and it revolves around delving deeper into the complex story of Alfred Pennyworth. Released in 2022, Matt Reeves' "The Batman" introduced Robert Pattinson as a new, early-career Dark Knight.

However, Serkis expresses a desire to explore Alfred Pennyworth's relationship with Bruce Wayne further within this flawed Gotham. The release of The Batman 2 is slated for 2027, nearly five years after the initial film, due to several delays.

Although many actors from the first film haven't yet seen the script, Andy Serkis has voiced his hopes for Alfred Pennyworth's role in The Batman 2.

Andy Serkis' Vision for Alfred in The Batman 2

Speaking at Fan Expo Philadelphia 2025, Andy Serkis shared his aspiration that the parental dynamics between Alfred and Bruce Wayne be explored more thoroughly in The Batman 2. He the lack of paternal instinct in Alfred, who struggles to be the father Bruce needs.

Serkis emphasizes that Alfred feels he has failed Bruce, the one person he cherishes and tries to protect. Alfred can provide skills in combat and code-breaking, stemming from his military background, but struggles to provide genuine paternal affection.

He stated, "I would like to see the exploration of that deeply and go further... I don’t know anything about the story or where Matt’s taking him, but I would love to see that taken to the extreme, but in a more extreme situation."

Serkis hopes that The Batman 2 will explore the flawed nature of Alfred and Batman's relationship further. While Alfred became Bruce's legal guardian after his parents' deaths, he was not truly equipped to be a father. Despite this, he imparted his knowledge of martial arts and self-defense to Bruce, becoming one of the Dark Knight's earliest mentors.

Alfred's History: Parallels to Batman: Earth One

Much of Alfred Pennyworth's history and characterization in "The Batman" draws inspiration from DC's "Batman: Earth One" graphic novel. In this version, Alfred was a Royal Marine who saved Thomas Wayne's life in the Middle East and became a close friend.

Following the Waynes' tragic demise, Alfred became Bruce's legal guardian, teaching him combat skills and self-defense, mirroring his military expertise, much like in The Batman 2's potential storyline.

The Batman alludes to Alfred's military past, referencing his time in "The Circus," a term for British Intelligence. This background makes Alfred an invaluable asset as Bruce deciphers the Riddler's puzzles, reinforcing the idea that Alfred trained Bruce, similar to the Earth One comics.

While variations exist between depictions, the underlying theme remains: Alfred was better equipped to train a soldier than to raise a son.

A More Active Role for Alfred in The Batman 2

Hopefully, Andy Serkis' wish will be granted, and The Batman 2 will further explore the relationship between Alfred and Bruce Wayne. Even if the sequel doesn't delve as deeply into their history, it's likely Alfred will assume a more active role in Batman's crusade.

One could expect Alfred to be more eager to assist now that Batman's mission has evolved, focusing on justice and aiding Gotham's innocent, rather than solely seeking vengeance.

The Batman 2 is currently scheduled for release on October 1st, 2027. The anticipation is building to see if Serkis' hopes for a deeper exploration of Alfred's story will come to fruition.