Netflix taking over Warner Bros. and reviving the Snyderverse? Henry Cavill and Ben Affleck could return as Superman and Batman in a completely new version. Not just a comeback but a full rebirth of the DC universe. If this rumor proves true, everything could change overnight.

The entertainment world shook when Netflix announced its blockbuster acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery’s studios and streaming assets in December 2025. Valued at an enterprise total of $82.7 billion, the deal positions Netflix as a dominant force in Hollywood.

The transaction followed intense bidding wars. Paramount Skydance launched rival offers, but Warner Bros. Discovery’s board repeatedly endorsed Netflix’s proposal, even after all-cash revisions in early 2026.

Regulatory hurdles and shareholder approvals remain. The deal awaits completion after WBD spins off its Global Networks division as Discovery Global, now slated for Q3 2026.

This mega-merger unites Netflix’s streaming prowess with Warner Bros.’ iconic library. Franchises like Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, and the entire DC portfolio fall under one roof.

DC fans immediately sparked speculation. Could Netflix resurrect Zack Snyder’s ambitious vision—the so-called Snyderverse—sidelined since 2017’s Justice League turmoil?

The Snyderverse launched with Man of Steel in 2013. Henry Cavill embodied a brooding, mythic Superman. Ben Affleck brought a battle-worn Batman in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.

Zack Snyder’s Justice League, released in 2021 via fan campaign, delivered his intended epic scope. Yet James Gunn’s 2023 DCU reboot shifted focus to David Corenswet as Superman.

Cavill’s brief 2022 Black Adam cameo teased a comeback. Plans evaporated under Gunn’s new direction. Corenswet’s Superman flew in 2025, with Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow set for 2026.

Netflix’s takeover ignited hope among Snyder loyalists. Zack Snyder’s long Netflix partnership—Rebel Moon series and more—fuels theories of creative alignment.

Social media erupted post-announcement. Hashtags like #RestoreTheSnyderVerse and #CavillSuperman trended globally. Fans posted old clips, demanding Cavill and Affleck’s return.

Insider whispers suggested Netflix might explore Snyderverse elements. Some claimed secret talks for Cavill’s reprisal, positioning him to lead a “reborn” DC under the streamer.

Zack Snyder himself stoked flames. Instagram posts featured Cavill as Superman, Affleck as Batman, even Deathstroke teases from years ago.

Netflix France once highlighted Black Adam versus Cavill’s Superman. The timing, amid acquisition buzz, seemed deliberate to many observers.

Yet skepticism persists. Netflix canceled several Snyder projects recently. Analysts argue the streamer prioritizes broad appeal over niche fan demands.

James Gunn’s DCU gains momentum. Superman sequels and Supergirl build a cohesive universe. Abrupt reversal risks alienating new audiences.

Industry experts note mergers take years to reshape creative pipelines. Disney-Fox integration dragged on; Netflix-WBD likely follows suit.

Post-closing, Netflix could integrate Max content seamlessly. DC films might premiere on the platform after theatrical runs, boosting subscriber growth.

A Snyderverse revival—if pursued—might manifest as limited series or animated features. Full theatrical reboots with aging actors like Cavill (now in his 40s) and Affleck face logistical hurdles.

Affleck directed and starred in The Batman solo film before stepping away. His return would require convincing amid his directorial commitments.

Cavill thrives elsewhere—Witcher legacy, Warhammer projects, upcoming roles. Convincing him back demands compelling scripts and creative freedom.

Netflix executives, including Ted Sarandos, emphasize “pro-consumer” and “pro-creative” outcomes. They promise expanded opportunities without immediate overhauls.

The merger’s debt load—around $85 billion—pressures profitability. Reviving divisive properties risks financial missteps if viewership falters.

DC’s box office history under Snyder mixed. Man of Steel succeeded modestly; Batman v Superman polarized despite earnings. Justice League flopped initially.

Snyder Cut’s HBO Max success proved fan demand exists. Yet mainstream appeal lagged behind Marvel’s dominance.

A hybrid approach could emerge. Netflix might greenlight Snyder-inspired projects while preserving Gunn’s DCU continuity.

Fan campaigns persist. Petitions and social drives urge Netflix to “make it happen.” Vocal minorities amplified #SellSnyderverseToNetflix long before the deal.

Realistically, a “completely new version” seems plausible. Perhaps Elseworlds tales—standalone stories featuring Cavill and Affleck without disrupting main continuity.

Animated revivals offer low-risk entry. Snyder’s style translates well to animation, reaching global audiences cost-effectively.

The rumor mill churns relentlessly. Every teaser, post, or executive comment dissected for clues.

For now, the acquisition inches toward closure. When finalized, Netflix inherits DC’s future.

Whether that means Snyderverse revival, Cavill/Affleck returns, or steady DCU progression remains uncertain.

The possibility thrills millions. A full rebirth could redefine superhero cinema under streaming’s biggest player.

Overnight change feels tantalizingly close. Yet Hollywood history cautions patience—big shifts unfold gradually.

Fans watch anxiously. Netflix now holds the keys to one of pop culture’s most enduring universes.

If rumors solidify into reality, Superman might soar again in red cape glory. Batman could brood once more in Gotham shadows.

The DC universe stands at a crossroads. Netflix’s takeover might spark its most dramatic chapter yet—or quietly evolve existing plans.

Only time reveals the truth. For devoted followers, hope burns brighter than ever amid this corporate earthquake