Kieran Culkin is expanding his career into animation with a new project for Disney. The actor will voice the lead role in "Clay," a feature film revealed to audiences at the D23 fan event on Friday. This casting choice adds a major family-friendly title to his growing portfolio of work, marking his first significant voice role in a major animated feature.
The narrative of "Clay" centers on a man who is chosen to act as a mentor. However, his student is a unique challenge: a moldable ball of clay. The plot tracks their travels as they navigate a fantastical forest, with the mentor tasked with ensuring the clay creature's survival throughout the journey. Disney Animation’s Jared Bush took the stage to announce the film, confirming that it is scheduled to arrive in theaters in November 2028.
Culkin's involvement comes after a landmark year for the actor. In 2025, he won both a best supporting actor Oscar and a Golden Globe for his work in "A Real Pain." He is also well-known for his television success, having earned an Emmy and a Golden Globe for his role as Roman Roy in HBO's "Succession." His future projects include "The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping," where he will play Caesar Flickerman, a character originated by Stanley Tucci. He is also attached to a new Nancy Meyers film for Warner Bros., which is anticipated to release in 2027.
The announcement of "Clay" was part of a larger showcase at D23. Disney Animation used the platform to reveal "Zootopia 3" and updates on "Hexed," confirming that Jodie Foster and Walton Goggins have joined the voice cast alongside Hailee Steinfeld. Meanwhile, Pixar presented its own slate, which includes sequels like "Incredibles 3" and "Coco 2," giving fans a detailed look at the studio's roadmap for the coming years.
Frequently asked questions
When is Disney's animated film Clay starring Kieran Culkin set to be released?
Clay is scheduled to hit theaters in November 2028.
What character does Kieran Culkin voice in Disney's new animated film Clay?
Culkin voices the mentor who protects a living, moldable ball of clay on their journey.
Which event announced Kieran Culkin's casting in Disney's film Clay?
Disney announced his casting at the D23 fan event held on Friday.
What major awards did Kieran Culkin win in 2025 before working on Clay?
In 2025 he earned an Oscar and a Golden Globe for best supporting actor in A Real Pain, plus an Emmy and another Golden Globe for his role as Roman Roy in Succession.
