James Gunn addresses DCU Clayface recast speculation following the announcement that Tom Rhys Harries will take on the villain in a 2026 horror film, despite previous casting in the animated franchise. The change has raised questions among fans about the continuity of actors across DC Studios’ projects and whether the storylines remain connected within the new DCU framework.
DC Studios Explains Clayface Casting Decision
James Gunn, serving as both DC Studios co-CEO and executive producer for the upcoming Clayface film, responded to concerns about the switch in actors for this character. While Gunn and DC Studios had previously committed to maintaining the same performers across film, TV, and animation within the DCU, this approach has seen some exceptions. For example, Frank Grillo voiced Rick Flag Sr. for the Creature Commandos animated series and will portray the same role in upcoming live-action projects like Superman and Peacemaker Season 2. This cross-medium consistency set expectations for future projects.
Recently, it was confirmed by DC Studios that Tom Rhys Harries, known for Suspicion on Apple TV+, will star as Clayface in the character’s solo horror film, scheduled for a theatrical release on September 11, 2026. This announcement signals a departure from the previous portrayal by Alan Tudyk, who voiced Clayface in last year’s animated Creature Commandos. Fans highlighted this difference on social media platforms, to which Gunn offered context, stating,
“would plan on using PRIMARY actors whenever [they] can,”
—James Gunn, DC Studios co-CEO.
He added further nuance regarding the various iterations of the character, remarking,
“I’ve also never said if the two characters are the same. (I’ve also never said they’re not).”
—James Gunn, DC Studios co-CEO. This comment references the history of the Clayface character, as more than one individual, including Basil Karlo and Matt Hagen, have taken on the mantle in comic book stories. As such, Gunn indicated that these on-screen versions may either be separate entities or that more information is yet to be revealed.
Possible Approaches to Clayface Storylines in the DCU
When Creature Commandos entered production, reports suggest there were no immediate plans for a Clayface film. Development only became concrete after screenwriter Mike Flanagan submitted a compelling script. As a result, any intended crossover or consistency between the animated and live-action incarnations might not have been considered during initial planning stages.
With Harries as the only confirmed cast member for the September 2026 release, further information about how these character versions intersect or differ remains speculative. The upcoming movie is directed by James Watkins, known for Speak No Evil, and penned by Mike Flanagan, writer of Doctor Sleep. Industry watchers propose that DC Studios could distinguish between the comedic tone of the animated Clayface and the darker, horror-driven depiction in the feature film, potentially by exploring a different identity under the villain‘s name or by setting the movie as a period piece that delves into the origin story.
The animated Clayface in Creature Commandos may never be explicitly named onscreen, though rumors suggest Harries could represent Matt Hagen in the live-action horror adaptation. Without official confirmation, it is unclear whether this film intends to build upon the story established in the animated series or forge an entirely separate path within the broader DCU.
Looking Ahead for the DCU and Its Villains
As DC Studios prepares to move forward with filming, more details about the connections—or distinctions—between these portrayals of Clayface are likely to be disclosed. James Gunn has emphasized a preference for actor consistency within the DCU when possible, suggesting that decisions such as this recasting are exceptions rather than new precedents. The strategy for integrating different interpretations and actors will influence audience expectations and the future narrative cohesion across DC projects.
Interest remains high to see how this casting shift impacts not only the Clayface storyline but also the direction of villain-centric cinema within the studio’s broader plans. The full cast lineup and further details about the plot are anticipated as the 2026 release date draws closer.
