Everyone took it on good faith that Michael Keaton would be in some part reprising his role as Batman in the upcoming The Flash film. That may not be a done deal yet, though.

What would keep Keaton from returning to the role?

While it seemed definite that Keaton was set to reprise his version of the Dark Knight in the Ezra Miller led film, the actor’s participation is still up in the air. One of the big issues standing in the way, looks to be Covid-19. During an interview with Deadline Keaton commented on his standing in regards to the film. Specifically, he is paying close attention to the Covid outbreaks in the UK, where The Flash is filming. Keaton said, “I keep my eye more on the Covid situation in the UK than anything. That will determine everything, and so that’s why I’m living outside the city here on 17 acres, staying away from everybody, because the Covid thing has got me really concerned. So, that’s my first thing about all projects. I look at it and go, is this thing going to kill me, literally? And you know, if it doesn’t, then we talk.”

If Covid wasn’t around, would he already be filming?

Having to find work isn’t an issue for Keaton at the moment. “I’m so fortunate and blessed, I got so much going on now. I’m really into work right now. I don’t know why, but I am… to tell you the truth, somewhere on my iPad is an iteration of the whole Flash thing that I haven’t had time [to read] yet.” Keaton continued, “I called them and said, I have to be honest with you. I can’t look at anything right now. I’m so deep into this thing I’m doing.

Also, I’m prepping a thing I’m producing and getting ready to do down the road in the fall that I’ll be in, and I feel responsible to that.

So, yeah, there is that. I’m not being cute or coy. If I talked about it, I’ll be just bulls***ting you.

I don’t really know. I have to look at the last draft.”

While it is an assumption, the star’s words are sound very promising for those eager to see him return as Bruce Wayne. The more you read his statements, the more it sounds like he is on board, he just needs to find the time and proper atmosphere before putting the suit on, again.