Joe Manganiello Reveals Being Cast as Deathstroke in Ben Affleck’s Batman Movie Motivated Him to Overcome Near-Fatal Health Crisis
Actor Joe Manganiello has revealed in his new memoir Bloodlines that being cast as Deathstroke in Ben Affleck’s unrealized Batman film provided crucial motivation during a severe personal health crisis. Manganiello was set to portray the antagonist in the Batman project, which was to be directed by and star Affleck during the late 2010s, before the film was ultimately scrapped.
In an excerpt from his memoir shared by The Hollywood Reporter, Manganiello describes how he was contending with a serious, near-fatal health condition at the time of his casting. Rather than allowing the medical challenges to derail his career, the opportunity to take on the high-profile role as a major DC villain became a turning point that inspired him to overcome his illness. The casting gave him a concrete professional goal and sense of purpose during what he characterizes as a nightmarish period.
Manganiello’s account underscores how external motivation and professional opportunity can intersect meaningfully with personal struggle. His journey from health crisis to recovery, catalyzed by professional commitment, is now documented in Bloodlines, offering insight into the actor’s resilience and determination during a vulnerable chapter of his life.