Ruby Rose as Batwoman. (The CW)
Ruby Rose has quit Batwoman, stunning fans by announcing her departure from the queer superhero show after just one season.
The TV star had blazed a trail with the CW show, playing the out-and-proud vigilante Kate Kane, who takes on the titular superhero mantle.
Batwoman wrapped up its first season this week, and has already been renewed for a second — but Rose surprised many by announcing her departure from the role.
In a statement, she said: “I have made the very difficult decision to not return to Batwoman next season.
“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.”
Why did Ruby Rose quit Batwoman? Reports suggest injury to blame.
Ruby Rose didn’t explain why she quit Batwoman, but Deadline reports it is unrelated to an on-set injury that shut down production while filming on the first season.
The TV star continued: “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.”
Production on the second season was not set to start any time soon, given that — like much of TV — filming is currently prevented by the coronavirus lockdown.
Who will be the new Batwoman? Producers vow to cast ‘member of the LGBTQ community’.
After Ruby Rose quit Batwoman, the show’s creators have indicated that the part will be recast with another queer role model.
A statement from production companies Berlanti Productions and WBTV said: “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 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 and member of the LGBTQ community, in the coming months.”