- Primary Subject: Batman's potential appearance in Clayface
- Key Update: Tom Rhys Harries confirmed that discussions took place regarding Batman's presence in Gotham City.
- Status: Confirmed
- Last Verified: October 13, 2026
- Quick Answer: Star Tom Rhys Harries teased lengthy discussions about Batman's presence in Gotham, but the Caped Crusader is unlikely to physically appear in Clayface.
With the upcoming release of Clayface, fans have been wondering whether Batman will make an appearance in the film.
The new DCU body horror will officially introduce the fan-favorite Batman villain and explore his origins. Some fans have been hoping that the film will also tease the beloved Caped Crusader, considering the titular character's connection and the story being set in Gotham City.
So, should fans expect any appearance from the hero?
Is Batman Appearing in Clayface?
In an interview with ComicBook.com, Clayface star Tom Rhys Harries addressed whether Batman will have an appearance in the new DCU movie.
While he didn't confirm the Caped Crusader will have an appearance, he shared that there were "lengthy discussions" during filming about his presence in Gotham City while the story is happening.
"Yes, we had discussions about that at length. I think that you have the opportunity; Gotham’s so rich, and the Batman villains gallery is so rich, is so full of, you know, like real psychologically interesting characters with depths. You can have these different characters and different stories play out whilst Batman also exists in that universe," the actor said.
Considering that the movie was always intended as a standalone origin, it would be surprising if Batman had a physical appearance, and we will likely see his DCU debut in his actual solo movie, rather than a villain spinoff.
Rhys Harries also made a point about how Batman has a lot of interesting villains under his belt, which makes it compelling to tell their solo stories even without the Caped Crusader in the picture.
It is interesting to see how the upcoming movie will connect to the rest of the DCU and whether it will plant the seeds for the eventual debut of Batman in the DCU.
What Is Clayface About?
DC Studios' Clayface will unravel one man’s horrifying descent from rising Hollywood star to revenge-filled monster in a story that explores the loss of one’s identity and humanity, corrosive love, and the dark underbelly of scientific ambition.
The cast includes Tom Rhys Harries, Naomi Ackie, David Dencik, Max Minghella, Eddie Marsan, Nancy Carroll, and Joshua James. James Watkins directed the film, while Mike Flanagan co-wrote the screenplay with Hossein Amini.
The film is slated for release in theaters on October 23, 2026. James Gunn, Peter Safran, and Matt Reeves are involved as producers.
Keep it locked on Epicstream, your go-to site for film, TV, and celebrity coverage!