DCU Horror Film Clayface Finds Its Star in Tom Rhys Harries

After months of speculation and an extensive casting search, DC has officially confirmed Tom Rhys Harries in the iconic role of Clayface for the upcoming standalone DCU film. As one of Batman’s most visually striking and psychologically complex villains, this casting marks a major milestone for the project as it moves closer to production with its September 11, 2026 release date now on the horizon.

The announcement was made by DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn via a post on Bluesky, where he shared a Deadline article confirming the news. In his message, Gunn expressed enthusiasm about the final casting decision, stating:

“After a long and incredibly exhaustive search, we finally have our DCU Clayface in Tom Rhys Harries. Both Matt Reeves and I were just blown away by this guy, and can't wait for you to see this film, directed by James Watkins and written by Mike Flanagan.”

For Harries, this marks his debut in the comic book genre. The actor is known for his compelling performances in projects such as The Gentlemen, The Return, and the short films Yellowbird and Hireth. Additionally, audiences may recognize him from popular TV series like White Lines and Suspicion. His casting signals a bold creative direction for the character, promising a fresh and intense portrayal of the shape-shifting antagonist.

The film will be directed by James Watkins (Speak No Evil) and written by horror mastermind Mike Flanagan (Midnight Mass, The Life of Chuck). With producers Lynn Harris and Matt Reeves—director of The Batman—attached to the project, it’s clear that the creative team is assembling top-tier talent that should excite both horror fans and DC enthusiasts alike.

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While plot details remain largely under wraps, earlier statements from Gunn and DC Studios co-CEO Peter Safran gave fans a tantalizing glimpse into what to expect. The film will explore Clayface’s origin story, offering a deep dive into the psychological unraveling and physical transformation that turns a man into a monster.

James Gunn described the project as “pure f***ing horror,” emphasizing the inclusion of psychological and body horror elements that will push the boundaries of the superhero genre. This approach aligns with DC Studios’ broader vision of crafting mature, thematically rich narratives that stand apart from previous iterations.

As more information surfaces, fans will get a clearer picture of how Clayface fits into the evolving architecture of the DC Universe. Until then, stay tuned for updates on all upcoming DCU projects. For deeper insights into the ongoing challenges surrounding Batman's cinematic future under Gunn’s leadership, additional resources are also available for review.