Joe Manganiello shares his research into DC Comics villain Deathstroke on social media

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 29 (UPI) -- Joe Manganiello has started to prepare for his role as major DC Comics villain Deathstroke in Ben Affleck's upcoming solo Batman film.

"#Research," the actor wrote on Twitter alongside a photo of various graphic novels and Funko POP! figures featuring the character.

A second tweet labeled "#research2" features even more comics including new issues of Deathstroke from DC's newly released Rebirth line, the series Identity Crisis from 2004 where Deathstroke was able to single-handedly take on members of the Justice League and a volume of Batman: Earth One from 2015 that is notably written by Geoff Johns who is helping Affleck craft the Batman film.

Previously, Manganiello shared the cover of New Teen Titans issue No. 2 on Twitter where Deathstroke first made his appearance. "In honor of #NationalComicBookDay here's a look at the first appearance of #Deathstroke in New #TeenTitans #2," he wrote at the time.

On Wednesday, the writer from that issue, Marv Wolfman, showed support for Manganiello tweeting, "@JoeManganiello As one of Deathstroke's comic book daddies back in 1980, I can't wait to see what you do with our baby."

Affleck, who is set to direct the Batman project featuring Deathstroke, teased the character's appearance in Warner Bros. DC Extended Universe recently on social media by posting a video featuring the highly-skilled assassin for hire staring menacingly at the camera as he sported his signature blue and orange armor.

Deathstroke, aka Slade Wilson -- also nicknamed The Terminator -- was also created by artist George Perez. Known for taking on the Teen Titans and hunting down heroes for the right price, Deathstroke possesses incredible strength, reflexes, a brilliant tactical mind and the ability to regenerate.

The fan-favorite character has appeared in numerous comics, animated shows like Cartoon Network's hit Teen Titans series, video games and was most recently portrayed by actor Manu Bennett on Arrow.