Following the departure of actress Ruby Rose, "Batwoman" producer Greg Berlanti has found his new crime-fighting, costumed vigilante lesbian in the character of 'Ryan Wilder', played by Javicia Leslie as the new Season 2 "Batwoman":
Leslie replaces Ruby Rose, who left the show in May after one season.
"I am extremely proud to be the first Black actress to play the iconic role of Batwoman on television," said Leslie.
"And as a bisexual woman, I am honored to join this groundbreaking show which has been such a trailblazer for the LGBTQ+ community."
Leslie previously starred in CBS' "God Friended Me". Her other credits include BET's "The Family Business" and the 2019 rom-com "Always a Bridesmaid".
"...'Ryan Wilder', is a female, mid-late 20's, any ethnicity and is about to become 'Batwoman'.
"She’s likable, messy, a little goofy and untamed. She's also nothing like 'Kate Kane', the woman who wore the 'batsuit' before her..."
"I have made the very difficult decision to not return to 'Batwoman' next season", said Ruby Rose about her departure, following an accident she had on set.
"This was not a decision I made lightly as I have the utmost respect for the cast, crew and everyone involved with the show in both Vancouver and in Los Angeles.
"I am beyond appreciative to Greg Berlanti, Sarah Schechter and Caroline Dries for not only giving me this incredible opportunity, but for welcoming me into the 'DC Universe' they have so beautifully created.
"Thank you Peter Roth and Mark Pedowitz and the teams at Warner Bros. and The CW who put so much into the show and always believed in me. Thank you to everyone who made season one a success – I am truly grateful."
"Warner Bros. Television, The CW and Berlanti Productions thank Ruby for her contributions to the success of our first season and wish her all the best," the companies said.
"The studio and network are firmly committed to Batwoman's second season and long-term future, and we — along with the show's talented creative team — look forward to sharing its new direction, including the casting of a new lead actress..."
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