Is Robert Pattinson’s Batman actually in Clayface? James Gunn speaks out on the recently viral set photo featuring his iconic symbol.
One wouldn’t expect Clayface to be getting so much play on social media before filming is even done. However, one of the main reasons the film is getting so much publicity revolves around speculation that James Gunn has been lying about Robert Pattinson not being the main Batman of the DC Universe. This has led fans to analyze every set photo that comes out down to its last pixel.
Recently, fans thought they hit paydirt. This is because a set photo from Clayface seemed to show a sticker with Robert Pattinson’s bat symbol on it. To many, this was official confirmation (albeit small) that James Gunn was bringing the actor on to be the main Batman for the DC Universe. Even if, at the time, there were still those with doubts as to the legitimacy of the evidence.
Oh?!?!
Battinson’s symbol was spotted on the set of ‘CLAYFACE.’
It’s unclear if it was placed there by the production.
(📸 @deejay1711) pic.twitter.com/XGwzu3JrD7
— DC Film News (@DCFilmNews) September 12, 2025
James Gunn Breaks Silence On Clayface Set Photo
Yet as with every viral rumor about the DC Universe, James Gunn took to social media to set the record straight. It seems as though that set photo isn’t confirmation of Robert Pattinson being the franchise’s leading Batman, with the franchises co-chair saying that the small sticker was never approved, and was possibly placed by a fan.
“Although the trash can is from the set I have a hard time believing the bat was put there by the art department,” Gunn wrote on Threads. “But if so it never came across my desk (I don’t have time to ok every piece of set dressing.)”
While it’s still possible that Robert Pattinson makes his shocking return in Clayface, all signs point to James Gunn and the rest of the DC Universe brain trust bringing in a new Batman for the franchise. This may be ultimately be for the best, allowing Pattinson to finish out the story Matt Reeves has in store while allowing fans to get double the bat goodness.
Clayface is set to release September 11th, 2026. Stay tuned for the latest news regarding the future of the DC Universe and make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more content!
