James Gunn announces Tom Rhys Harries as Clayface in an upcoming DCU movie, confirming his leading role in the film directed by James Watkins and set for release in September 2026. Fans can expect a fresh performance, as Gunn and collaborator Matt Reeves highlight Harries’ casting as a standout moment for the cinematic universe.
Tom Rhys Harries Chosen for Iconic DCU Role
The forthcoming Clayface film, part of DC Studios’ expanding universe, has secured its star after an extensive search. Tom Rhys Harries, recognized for his work in Guy Ritchie’s The Gentlemen, will play Clayface in the movie, which hits theaters in the United States in September 2026. The project is directed by James Watkins, with a script by Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini, and will be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures and DC Studios.
In an exciting announcement, James Gunn shared his enthusiasm for the casting:
“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.”
— James Gunn, DC Studios Co-Chairman
A Look at Tom Rhys Harries’ Experience and Casting Process
Welsh actor Tom Rhys Harries brings a diverse acting background to the DCU. He is recognized for leading roles in films such as Ironclad: Battle for Blood and Kandahar, as well as performances in The Return and Slaughterhouse Rulez. His television credits include appearances in series like Jekyll and Hyde, Unforgotten, White Lines, and Suspicion. This broad experience made him a top contender during the casting phase.
Other talented actors who were considered for the part of Clayface included Jack O’Connell (known from Sinners), Tom Blyth (who appeared in The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes), Leo Woodall (The White Lotus), and George MacKay (1917). Ultimately, Harries emerged as the filmmakers’ choice after what Gunn described as an exhaustive search for the right performer.
Production Team and DCU Context
The motivational force behind the Clayface project includes James Gunn, Matt Reeves (of The Batman), Peter Safran, and Lynn Harris on the producing team. Chantal Nong has taken on the role of executive producer. The character of Clayface carries a legacy in DC adaptations, having been previously voiced by Alan Tudyk in both Creature Commandos and the Harley Quinn animated series; however, those projects are not directly linked to the main DCU continuity.
Clayface is set to become the third film in the new DCU lineup, following Superman’s scheduled release in July 2025 and Supergirl in June 2026. The addition of this character and Harries’ fresh interpretation represent an effort to bring renewed energy to the superhero film franchise.
What to Expect as the DCU Expands
With a release date set for September 11, 2026, anticipation is building as fans look forward to seeing what Tom Rhys Harries will bring to the role of Clayface. This major casting decision, confirmed by James Gunn, stands to shape the direction of both the film and the evolving DCU, as new and familiar characters share the spotlight in upcoming productions.
