DCU Star Shares Intense Makeup Experience Transforming Into His Character For ‘Superman’: “I’m Not Kidding When I Say That I Was Glued In”

Anthony Carrigan, who plays Metamorpho in the new Superman movie, had to spend a lot more time in the makeup chair than most of his co-stars. The actor, known for his role in the TV show Barry and for appearing in Gotham, explained to Entertainment Weekly how intense the makeup process was for his character, Rex Mason.

Metamorpho’s look involved layers of glued-on pieces, paint, and even stitching to create the full effect. Carrigan said, “I’m not kidding when I say that I was glued in, I was sewn in, I was completely enveloped. I was tied in…roped in, basically. But all in service of this incredible costume.”

He described the makeup as a long and detailed process that took around five to six hours every day. Despite the time and discomfort, Carrigan loves practical effects like this. “It’s worth it because you can actually feel the texture of something. Your brain notices the difference,” he shared.

Carrigan also mentioned that he grew up with older sisters who often put makeup on him, so he’s used to the feeling and stays calm during the process. Still, he said the last hour in the chair is the hardest.

The makeup was crucial to bring Metamorpho to life, showing the character’s struggle and pain. Carrigan talked about how his role connects to feeling different and cursed, which he personally understands because of his alopecia areata, a condition that causes hair loss.

He explained that director James Gunn wanted someone who could bring a deep, human feeling to the character’s story of being forced to work against Superman.

Carrigan also revealed some story details about Metamorpho’s role in the movie, saying the character is pushed to transform his body into kryptonite to weaken Superman, which is very painful for him. “You’re in a situation where it’s having to hurt someone, having to be an agent of the bad guy. And at the same time, there’s this struggle to want to be good,” he said.

Superman, featuring this detailed makeup work and complex characters, is set to open in theaters on July 11.

Have something to add? Let us know in the comments below!