Who Is Clayface (Payne)? Origin, Powers and Key Facts

Clayface (Payne) is a DC Comics comic book character, the alter ego of Preston Payne, with over 109 comic issue appearances. Preston Payne is the 3rd Clayface to fight Batman.

Who is Clayface (Payne)?

Major Story Arcs Feel The Payne! Payne was ill with hyperpituitarism and worked in S.T.A.R. Labs trying to come up with a cure for his illness. One day he visited Matt Hagen the second Clayface who had the ability to remold his features, Payne was able to acquire a small tissue sample and find a temporary cure to control his metamorphosis until sometime later while with his girlfriend his skin began to melt from his body. Trying to calm his appalled companion he grabbed a hold of her and gave her his “death touch” and she began to melt as well until she was no more than a puddle of protoplasm. Soon after he manages to make a suit that won't melt to his touch to stop himself from touching anyone and killing them. Unfortunately he needs to touch people to survive which gives him a hunger sensation but still goodhearted he only kills street thugs and other street dwellers who no one would take notice of their disappearance. As months went on he broke into many labs across the city stealing equipment to find a cure for his problem. He was then caught by Batman in one lab and fought him.

Key facts

Clayface (Payne) is of human origin and first appeared in "The House That Haunted Batman!". The character is published by DC Comics. With 109 recorded issue appearances, Clayface (Payne) ranks among the most featured characters in comics.