Latest rumors for new Batman

Josh Brolin, Ryan Gosling, and Joe Manganiello are all rumored to be the next Bruce Wayne. 

Zack Snyder has the ball rolling from his announcement at San Diego Comic-Con last month that our 'Man of Steel' sequel will actually be a Batman/Superman film. With Christopher Nolan and Christian Bale's Dark Knight moniker officially off the table, a new Bruce Wayne will be casted and created. As reported, Snyder will consult with Frank Miller, the author of the original comic series which featured the Batman-Superman merger. Apparently, this will be an older, wiser Bruce Wayne, much like from Miller's story. 

Also in the mix: Luke Evans and Richard Armitage.

Many candidates are rumored to be in the conversation, from more decorated actors such as Ryan Gosling to lower profile actors such as Joe Manganiello and Richard Armitage. ENSTARS has included Jon Hamm and Jude Law into the batch of latest contenders as well. Based on some deliberate biases and an innate sensitivity to this matter, here is how I would rank these potential candidates for the next Bruce Wayne:

1. Josh Brolin - He's just popular enough to be recognized but not too polished to outshine Henry Cavill as Superman. He's used to being the tough guy. Plus, he's around the same age as the desired Bruce (45).

2. Luke Evans - Shown above, I like Evans' potentially piercing presence. I enjoyed his role as Zeus in 'Immortals' and could see the 35-year-old actor shaping into Bruce Wayne form.

3. Jon Hamm - The only high profile guy mentioned that I think would actually work, Hamm is perhaps best known for starring in AMC's 'Mad Men'. Look at Hamm and tell me he doesn't give off a Bruce Wayne vibe.

4. Richard Armitage - Also in his 40's, Armitage has the look and the element of most unfamiliar. The film might benefit most from a less recognizable face.

5. Jude Law - I love Law's work, and I personally wouldn't put any role past him, but he's not necessarily the hero type.

6. Joe Manganiello - Alcide Herveaux from 'True Blood'? I don't think so.

7. Ryan Gosling - Seriously? Stop insulting me.

Casting has not officially begun, but we can continue to speculate. For those of us who remain cautious about a new Batman figure, this casting move is highly delicate. The Man of Steel sequel, rumored to be named Batman vs. Superman, is scheduled for a 2015 release. 

Who do you think should be the new Bruce Wayne?