In a news filled DC Studios update we are learning that Alan Tudyk will not be reprising his role as Clayface in the upcoming live-action film. This comes as a surprise as previously, DC Studios’ co-chief James Gunn had previously stated that actors that voice a role in an animated project will also play them in live-action. Tudyk has voiced Clayface in two DC animated series including Harley Quinn and most recently in Creature Commandos. Gunn says that the reason for this is that Clayface was not a “primary role” for Tudyk.
ABOUT DC STUDIOS’ CLAYFACE
Currently Clayface is aiming to start shooting this summer with “Speak No Evil” director James Watkins at the helm. This based on a script by Mike Flanagan. He has made quite the name for himself in the horror world with multiple well-received series on Netflix. This includes “The Fall of the House of Usher”. DC Studios’ co-chief Peter Safran says that while this classic DC villain may not be as recognizable as others, they believe his story is, “as deeply resonant, thrilling and even more terrifying.”
The current release date for Clayface is September 11, 2026. The post Labor Day release window is something that Warner Bros. Pictures is very familiar and comfortable with. Especially in the horror genre with hits like It, The Nun, and Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. The film is described as a “body horror film”. Gunn says that the goal is that it works as a “pure horror movie for somebody who doesn’t care all about DC.”
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THOUGHTS ON ALAN TUDYK AND CLAYFACE
Bottom line is Tudyk can’t play everyone. With the track record that Gunn has with his casting in the past, it will be interesting to see which characters is designated as his “primary role” (if its not Doctor Phosphorus”). Whatever it is I am sure it will be great as I have enjoyed the majority of Tudyk’s roles most recently in Resident Alien.
As for the Clayface feature itself, I’ve enjoyed Flanagan’s work. I trust that working with Safran and Gunn, they will be able to deliver a great film that will allow audiences connect with the classic Batman villain. If you don’t think there is potential there just check out some of his feature episodes in Batman: The Animated Series.
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