A recent behind-the-scenes photo from the filming of Clayface in Liverpool, England, has sparked speculation among DC fans that Robert Pattinson’s portrayal of Batman might make his DCU debut in the movie. The image shows a Bat Symbol sticker attached to a dumpster, leading many to believe that Pattinson’s Batman could appear in the DC Universe.
Fans online expressed excitement, with one saying, I’m genuinely shaking rn. The photo ignited hope that Matt Reeves’ Batman films might connect to James Gunn’s DCU projects, blending the two storylines.
Fan Reactions and Theories About Batman’s Appearance
Additional clues from the Clayface set include references to Robin and a detailed Gotham map, which have further intrigued fans about how much Batman-related world-building will be included. One user tagged The Batman 2 screenwriter Mattson Tomlin, writing, I hope this is true. Another reacted with a Penguin GIF, quoting,
Holy God, what are you showing me here?
—Someone
Despite the enthusiasm, it’s important to note that the Bat Symbol sticker featured an artist’s signature, suggesting it was likely added intentionally by an illustrator rather than signifying Pattinson’s actual role in Clayface. This raises questions about whether Pattinson’s Batman will appear or if the references are more subtle nods within the movie’s setting.
Clarifying Robert Pattinson’s Batman and DC Studios Plans
James Gunn, head of DC Studios, has confirmed that Robert Pattinson will not be the Batman for his universe. Instead, Pattinson’s Batman films are part of “DC Elseworlds,” a separate branch from the main DCU storyline. The casting for the new DCU Batman is still pending as Gunn’s DC Universe continues to develop.
About the Clayface Movie and Its Cast
The Clayface movie will star Tom Rhys Harries as Matt Hagen, a promising actor whose face becomes disfigured and who gains shape-shifting abilities after being experimented on by a rogue scientist played by Naomi Ackie. Directed by James Watkins, known for Speak No Evil, the horror-themed film is co-written by Mike Flanagan.
Clayface is scheduled to premiere on September 11, 2026, as part of the DCU Chapter One slate, contributing to the ongoing expansion of the DC Universe on the big screen.
What This Means for the Future of Batman in the DCU
While fans await official announcements regarding the DCU’s Batman casting, the mysterious Bat Symbol on the Clayface set continues to inspire speculation about potential crossovers or hints at connections between Matt Reeves’ Elseworlds films and James Gunn’s DCU. Whether Robert Pattinson’s Batman will ever join the DCU or remain within the Elseworlds imprint remains uncertain, but fans can expect to see more layered storytelling in upcoming DC projects.
