The actress, known for starring in comedy-drama God Friended Me on CBS, is set to debut in the much-anticipated second season of Batwoman, scheduled to be aired in January 2021. Thus, she becomes the first Black actress to play the role in a live-action TV show or in movies.
“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 a statement.
According to Variety, Leslie will play Ryan Wilder (a new character to be introduced) who is described as “likable, messy, a little goofy and untamed”, according to Warner Bros., producers of the series. She is taking over from Kate Kane, aka Batwoman, and will reportedly play an LGBTQIA+ character on the series. Kane was earlier essayed by Ruby Rose, who left the show after one season. So what makes Wilder’s character distinguishable from Kane? She’s also described as “nothing like Kate Kane, the woman who wore the Batsuit before her” and “not your stereotypical all-American hero,” CNN reported.
She is the first Black actress to play the role on TV or in movies.
Javicia will star in the iconic role that has been played by big names like Alicia Silverstone and Ruby Rose
Sharing her excitement about her new role on Instagram, Leslie wrote: “For all of the little black girls dreaming to be a superhero one day… it’s possible!”
We have seen Leslie in other TV dramas like The Family Business and 2019 rom-com Always a Bridesmaid. Leslie is trained in “muay thai, boxing, and weapons,” according to her IMDb, and she is perfect as the new superhero. She also likes to dance, track, and swim.
Text excluding title courtesy She The People
