DCU’s Clayface Casting Rumor: Harry Potter Actor Considered for Role

Overview of the Clayface Film Development

Director James Watkins has been appointed for the upcoming Clayface film, based on a script by Mike Flanagan, following its approval for a theatrical release set for Fall 2026.
There are circulating rumors suggesting that Daniel Radcliffe, known for his role in Harry Potter, is in consideration for the character of Clayface.
Bringing Radcliffe on board may enhance the film’s appeal, potentially drawing in audiences unfamiliar with the tragic backstory of the villain.

The highly anticipated Clayface movie in the DCU is rapidly progressing with James Watkins set to direct a script crafted by Mike Flanagan. Recent rumors have emerged regarding the possible casting of a well-known actor for the pivotal role of the iconic Batman villain.

The initial proposal for a Clayface film came from Flanagan to DC Studios executives James Gunn and Peter Safran in 2023. However, it wasn’t until December 2024 that Gunn officially announced that the project had been greenlit, earmarking it for a theatrical debut in Fall 2026. Although Flanagan, famed for his horror works such as The Haunting of Hill House and Midnight Mass, was seen as an ideal choice, his commitment to another project with Universal—the new Exorcist film—prompted the search for another director. After an extensive selection process, Watkins was chosen to head the project.

As reported by Jeff Sneider on The InSneider, Daniel Radcliffe is reportedly one of two actors being considered for the role of Basil Karlo, aka Clayface. Radcliffe and Watkins have previously collaborated on the supernatural thriller The Woman in Black, which could bode well for their chemistry on this new project. There has been no identification of the second actor in consideration yet.

The response to the possibility of Radcliffe playing Clayface has generally been favorable, though some fans have voiced concerns. The character’s narrative—a horror tragedy involving an actor striving to maintain relevance through a risky procedure—might imply that Basil Karlo would be portrayed as older. While Radcliffe might not fit the traditional mold of an aged character, some Reddit users farben_blas and BROnik99 mentioned that if the story revolves around an actor overshadowed by a singular iconic role, Radcliffe’s transition away from the Boy Wizard persona could align perfectly with the film’s themes.

Moreover, leveraging Radcliffe’s reputation from the Harry Potter franchise might attract a broader audience base. Although comic book aficionados are eager for a well-executed Clayface portrayal, some question whether the character possesses enough recognition to captivate general viewers. Should Radcliffe be cast, his established fanbase could boost ticket sales, drawing in those intrigued by his performance. Having proven his versatility in projects like Weird: The Al Yankovic Story, he undoubtedly has the capability to breathe life into the emotionally complex character of Clayface.

The Clayface film is scheduled for release on September 11, 2026.

Source: The InSneider

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