Fans are buzzing about a possible DCU character’s recast after DC Studios confirmed a solo Clayface film. The confusion grew when DC announced Tom Rhys Harries as the lead in Clayface (2026). Many fans were surprised because Alan Tudyk had already voiced Clayface in Creature Commandos (2024).
Now, James Gunn is setting the record straight—and his comments may surprise you.
The Clayface Casting Confusion and the DCU Character’s Recast Debate
In Creature Commandos, Clayface appears as a humorous, shape-shifting villain, voiced by Alan Tudyk. Fast forward to the live-action Clayface movie, and Tom Rhys Harries has taken over the role.
This led many fans to ask a key question: Was this the first DCU character’s recast, with Alan Tudyk replaced as Clayface?
Gunn responded on Threads, saying:
“We would plan on using PRIMARY actors whenever we can.”
“I’ve also never said if the two characters are the same. (I’ve also never said they’re not).”
His vague but deliberate wording has left room for interpretation.
Are These Two Different Clayfaces?
James Gunn’s remarks suggest this situation doesn’t count as a typical DCU character’s recast. Instead, it reflects a creative decision to separate two characters who share the same alias. In DC Comics lore, several individuals have used the name Clayface. Among them, Basil Karlo stands out with his theatrical and often comedic persona, while Matt Hagen delivers a darker, more horror-driven version of the character.
This creative flexibility allows the DCU to introduce two distinct versions of Clayface. Alan Tudyk likely voices Karlo in Creature Commandos, while Tom Rhys Harries plays Hagen in the upcoming live-action film. Each version contributes a different tone and purpose to the growing DC Universe.
Clayface (2026) Movie Details
Here’s what we know about the upcoming Clayface solo film:
- Writer: Mike Flanagan (Doctor Sleep)
- Director: James Watkins (Speak No Evil)
- Lead Actor: Tom Rhys Harries
- Genre: Body Horror / Psychological Thriller
- Release Date: September 11, 2026
The film will take a dark, character-driven approach—offering a tone that’s entirely different from the animated series.
Why This Isn’t a DCU Character’s Recast but a Creative Strategy
James Gunn’s overall DCU strategy promotes actor consistency across movies, animation, and series—but only when it fits the tone and story. In this case:
- DC developed Creature Commandos before Clayface (2026)
- The shift in genre from comedy to horror likely called for a tonal reset
- The comics already feature multiple characters using the same alias
So, DC Studios didn’t go for a DCU character’s recast—they made a creative choice to expand the universe instead.
More DCU Casting Examples
To show where consistency still holds strong:
- Alan Tudyk continues voicing Robot #4 in Superman (2025)
- Frank Grillo will portray Rick Flag Sr. across both Creature Commandos and Superman (2025), as well as Peacemaker Season 2
These examples highlight how the DCU keeps continuity wherever it best serves the story.
So, did DC Studios recast a DCU character? Not exactly.
DC Studios isn’t replacing a character; it’s expanding the universe by introducing multiple interpretations of Clayface. Each version features a unique tone, purpose, and actor, all while preserving continuity.
Two Clayfaces. Two tones. One creative vision.
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