I feel bad for anyone that enjoys CW’s “Batwoman” and doesn’t pay attention to Hollywood news. Why? Well, since the first season finale this spring, the show has lost its lead actress, Ruby Rose, is planning to get rid of the lead character Kate Kane as Batwoman, and is replacing her with a brand-new character played by a brand-new actress. To say fans are in for a shock next season is a huge understatement. But at least now, we know who the actress donning the cowl and cape is going to be.
According to Deadline, “God Friended Me” actress Javicia Leslie has been cast as the new Caped Crusader in “Batwoman.” However, as mentioned, she won’t take over the same role that was swiftly left open by Rose. Instead, Leslie is expected to portray Ryan Wilder, the new woman that will take over the title of Batwoman.
“I am extremely proud to be the first Black actress to play the iconic role of Batwoman on television, and as a bisexual woman, I am honored to join this groundbreaking show which has been such a trailblazer for the LGBTQ+ community,” Leslie said.
In an Instagram post, Rose wrote, “OMG!! This is amazing!! I am so glad Batwoman will be played by an amazing Black woman. ❤️ I want to congratulate Javicia Leslie on taking over the bat cape. You are walking into an amazing cast and crew. I can’t wait to watch season 2 you are going to be amazing!!”
There will be some key differences between how the character of Batwoman is portrayed in the new season as opposed to the Kate Kane version from Season 1. Leslie’s character, Ryan Wilder, is a former drug-runner and current occupant of a van she shares with her plant. She’s an out-lesbian, which continues the legacy of LGBTQ+ representation for the main character. But unlike Kate Kane, Wilder is said to be a bit, uh, wild and undisciplined, which could mean trouble for the new superhero.
It’s unclear when filming on Season 2 will begin due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but it appears that CW is finally ready to put the Ruby Rose drama behind them and usher in a new era of “Batwoman.”