Tom Rhys Harries Cast as DCU’s Clayface

James Gunn Announces Clayface Lead

In a much-anticipated Instagram reveal, DC Studios co-chair James Gunn confirmed that Welsh actor Tom Rhys Harries has landed the role of Clayface in an upcoming DC Universe (DCU) feature. Gunn wrote, “After a long and incredibly exhaustive search, we finally have our DCU Clayface in @tomrhysharries. Both Matt Reeves and I were just blown away by this guy, and can’t wait for you to see this film,” pointing to a project directed by James Watkins and scripted by Mike Flanagan.

Meet Tom Rhys Harries

Tom Rhys Harries, 32, first turned heads with his role as Gus Sackey in Netflix’s hit series Industry. He later appeared in crime dramas such as White Lines and the mini-series White House Farm, showcasing an ability to shift seamlessly between intense drama and psychological thriller. Fans first spotted hints of his DCU involvement in casting calls last summer, sparking online chatter that culminated in Monday’s official announcement.

A Villain Rooted In Comic Lore

Clayface originally debuted in Detective Comics #40 in 1940, created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane. The character’s alter ego, Basil Karlo, was once a struggling actor who transforms into a living clay monster. For this new DCU film, Mike Flanagan’s screenplay reportedly delves into Karlo’s obsession with fame and the blurred line between performance and reality, adding layers of horror and tragedy to the shapeshifting villain.

Creative Voices: Watkins And Flanagan

The choice of director James Watkins suggests the film will lean into atmospheric horror. Watkins gained acclaim for The Woman in Black and Eden Lake, balancing period detail with chilling suspense. Writer-director Mike Flanagan, known for The Haunting of Hill House and Midnight Mass, brings a knack for exploring the human cost of supernatural powers. Together, their collaboration promises a dark, character-driven take on Clayface.

Gunn And Reeves’s Dcu Vision

As co-heads of DC Studios, James Gunn and Matt Reeves have been reshaping the franchise since CinemaCon 2023. Gunn, the creative mind behind Guardians of the Galaxy and The Suicide Squad, emphasizes humor and heart, while Reeves, director of The Batman and forthcoming Nightwing, brings a noir sensibility. Their shared goal is to build a cohesive narrative across films and series—an effort reflected in their rigorous audition process for Clayface, which prioritized both acting range and physical adaptability.

First Glimpses Of The Expanding Dcu

Earlier this year, Gunn treated fans to a behind-the-scenes look at the studio’s broader universe. In a March 12 post, he showcased early costume tests featuring Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern Guy Gardner, Isabel Merced as Hawkgirl, Edi Gathegi as Mr. Terrific, and Carriganagain as Metamorpho. That photograph underscored the expanding roster of heroes—and villains—that will cross paths in future DCU installments.

Gunn’s Directorial Dna

Before steering DC Studios, Gunn earned acclaim for writing and directing films like Slither, Dawn of the Dead, and the Guardians of the Galaxy series. His 2021 return to comic book cinema with The Suicide Squad blended irreverent humor and ultra-graphic action, proving his ability to handle morally gray characters. That experience will likely shape Clayface’s arc, which navigates the line between tragic antihero and monstrous threat.

Appreciating Dc’s Legacy

Gunn’s respect for DC lore is well-documented on his social channels. In a May Instagram post, he paid homage to Superman’s storied history: “There are so many things that have helped #Superman become what it is. I’m grateful for all of them,” he wrote alongside a Rolling Stone feature. Such tributes hint at a broader strategy to honor classic material while introducing bold new interpretations.

Casting Insights And Fan Reactions

Clayface’s role demands both emotional depth and extensive VFX work. On social media, fans praised DC Studios for selecting a relatively fresh face in Harries rather than a legacy star, reflecting Gunn’s and Reeves’s track record of highlighting emerging talent. Within hours of the announcement, #Clayface trended on X (formerly Twitter), accompanied by fan art and speculative costume designs.

Looking Ahead

Production is slated to commence later this year, with an official release date expected for late 2025 or early 2026. While plot details remain under wraps, the pairing of Watkins’s directorial style and Flanagan’s storycrafting suggests Clayface will combine blockbuster spectacle with intimate horror. Tom Rhys Harries’s performance could redefine the character for a new generation, setting the stage for his role in the broader DCU narrative.

From the careful casting process to the creative team’s pedigree, Clayface’s journey from page to screen underscores DC Studios’ commitment to reimagining classic characters. As fans await the first trailer, Tom Rhys Harries’s turn as Clayface stands as one of the most intriguing developments in the unfolding DC Universe.

Trivia

James Gunn began his career in filmmaking by writing and directing low-budget films such as 'The Specials' in 2000.

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Pratibha

 

Pratibha holds a master's degree in English from Madras University. A bookworm from a young age, she devours books and digital humanities to nourish her writing projects. Pratibha began her writing career in 2018 and has experience writing formal, informal, and technical content.

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