From Scooby-Doo to Stretchy Superhero: Matthew Lillard's DCU Dream as Plastic Man

Matthew Lillard, the beloved actor forever etched in our minds as Shaggy from the live-action Scooby-Doo films, has a new dream, and it involves joining the ranks of DC's mightiest heroes. For years, Lillard has openly expressed his fervent desire to portray the eccentric, elastic hero, Plastic Man, in James Gunn's burgeoning DC Universe, a casting choice that has ignited considerable excitement among fans.

Lillard's enthusiasm isn't a new development; it's a consistent, passionate campaign he's waged across social media and interviews.

His dedication to the craft, coupled with his distinctive comedic timing and expressive physicality, makes his vision for Plastic Man feel not just plausible, but genuinely exciting. He sees the potential for a character that blends humor with heroism, a niche he could undoubtedly fill with his signature charm.

Crucially, Lillard's aspiration gains significant weight from his past collaboration with none other than James Gunn.

Gunn, now co-CEO of DC Studios, was the screenwriter behind the very Scooby-Doo films that introduced Lillard's iconic Shaggy to a new generation. Gunn has a well-documented history of working with actors he trusts and admires across multiple projects, from his Guardians of the Galaxy ensemble to The Suicide Squad.

This established rapport between Lillard and Gunn creates a tantalizing possibility that the actor's dream could indeed become a reality.

So, why Plastic Man? Patrick 'Eel' O'Brian, alias Plastic Man, is one of DC's most unique heroes. Possessing the ability to stretch, shapeshift, and morph into virtually any form, his powers are only matched by his often-comedic personality.

He’s known for his irreverence, his unconventional methods, and a heart of gold hidden beneath layers of playful banter. Lillard's talent for bringing quirky, lovable characters to life—from Shaggy's nervous energy to his other diverse roles—makes him a seemingly perfect fit for the malleable hero.

Imagine Lillard injecting his unique brand of humor and heart into a character that literally embodies flexibility.

His portrayal could offer a refreshing contrast to the often-brooding DC landscape, bringing a much-needed dose of lightheartedness and visual comedy. The idea of Lillard's Plastic Man interacting with the more serious elements of the DCU is an inherently compelling one, promising memorable moments and a hero unlike any other.

As James Gunn continues to shape the future of the DCU, the prospect of Matthew Lillard as Plastic Man remains a vibrant, fan-favorite suggestion.

It's a casting call that makes perfect sense, blending Lillard's proven talent and his existing connection with Gunn to potentially introduce a wonderfully whimsical yet undeniably heroic character to the cinematic universe. The DCU could certainly use a hero who can stretch the boundaries of what's possible, both literally and figuratively, and Matthew Lillard seems poised to do just that.