Batwoman boss finally confirms Ruby Rose’s replacement as she lifts lid on ‘elephant in the room’ for season 2
THE showrunner for Batwoman has finally confirmed why they have decided to introduce a completely new character rather than find a new actress to play Ruby Rose's Kate Kane.
Caroline Dries lifted the lid following Ruby's departure from The CW show last month after just one season.
Speaking at the virtual ATX Television Festival, Caroline said: “To be honest with you, I did consider the soap opera version for a hot minute, selfishly, because we had a couple episodes already written, and transition-wise, it would be seamless [since] we already started breaking season two.
"But upon further reflection, and [executive producer] Greg [Berlanti] helped me make this call – and he's way smarter than me about this sort of stuff – he's like, 'You know, I think we should just reboot the character in terms of reboot Batwoman as a different character'.
"Just to also respect everything that Ruby put into the Kate Kane character," she added.
It's been reported that the new character will be called Ryan Wilder, and Caroline went on to explain how the role will help the audience with the transition from Kate.
"I just think it helps the audience a little bit, too, that we're not asking them to not address the elephant in the room," she said.
"I'm inventing a whole new character. In her past, she was inspired by Batwoman.
"She is going to take on the mantle and is completely maybe not the right person at the time to be doing it. That's what makes it fun."
Earlier this month, Entertainment Weekly claimed Ryan would be a "lesbian drug dealer who can kill with bare hands" after a casting notice for the role was posted on Reddit.
While the post has since been removed, it read: "With no one in her life to keep her on track, Ryan spent years as a drug-runner, dodging the GCPD and masking her pain with bad habits.
"Today, reformed and sober, Ryan lives in van with her plant. A girl who would steal milk from an alley cat and could also kill you with her bare hands, Ryan is the most dangerous type of fighter: highly skilled and wildly disciplined.
"An out lesbian. Athletic. Raw. Passionate. Fallible. And very much not your stereotypical All-American hero," the post added.
Fans of The CW series were left shocked last month when actress Ruby, 34, announced she was quitting the role after just one season.
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Breaking her silence on her exit, Ruby said in an Instagram post last month: "It wasn't an easy decision but those who know, know.
"I didn't want to not acknowledge everyone involved and how big this was for TV and for our community.
"I have stayed silent because that's my choice for now but know I adore you all.
"I'm sure next season will be amazing also. Xxx *hangs up cowl and cape."