Ben Affleck: The New Batman — Confirmed!

Hollywood has found its new Caped Crusader.

Ben Affleck will be the next Batman, Access Hollywood has confirmed.

Affleck will debut as the superhero for Warner Bros.’ upcoming Superman/Batman film, putting one of Hollywood’s hottest casting rumors to rest, the studio announced on Thursday.

“Affleck and filmmaker Zack Snyder will create an entirely new incarnation of the character in Snyder’s as-yet-untitled project — bringing Batman and Superman together for the first time on the big screen and continuing the director’s vision of their universe, which he established in “Man of Steel,’” Warner Bros. said in a release late Thursday.

Following the big announcement, Snyder shared his joy over the selection.

“Ben provides an interesting counter-balance to Henry’s Superman. He has the acting chops to create a layered portrayal of a man who is older and wiser than Clark Kent and bears the scars of a seasoned crime fighter, but retain the charm that the world sees in billionaire Bruce Wayne. I can’t wait to work with him,” the director said in a statement.

Other stars who had reportedly been up for the role of The Dark Knight included Orlando Bloom, Ryan Gosling, Josh Brolin, Armie Hammer, Joe Manganiello, Max Martini and Matthew Goode, among others.

The new film is expected to begin production in 2014, with a July 17, 2015 release date announced.

Henry Cavill will reprise his role as Superman, with “Man of Steel” stars Amy Adams, Diane Lane and Laurence Fishburne also returning for the next installment.

WATCH: Ben Affleck’s Big Oscar Night — Partying At The Governor’s Ball!

Variety was the first to report the casting news on Thursday.

Eric Anderson

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