It has been previously confirmed that Ruby Rose will not be coming back as Kate Kane in Batwoman season 2. The actress has exited her titular role after just one season. Now, it seems like the series won't be recasting the role and may opt to go in a different direction.
In a recent report via TVLine, executive producer Caroline Dries has something to say about this particular subject. During the ATX Television Festival virtual interview, she told her former Vampire Diaries colleague Julie Plec why they didn't recast Rose in the upcoming Batwoman season 2.
She shed some light on the decision not to recast the titular character, and instead, they create a whole new character in the upcoming installment. Dries revealed that she initially considered a "soap opera version" of recasting for a moment.
One of the reasons why she wanted to do it is because they've already had a couple of episodes written. So, in terms of transition, it would be seamless. But upon further reflection and with the help of Arrowverse executive producer Greg Berlanti, Dries realized what to do in Batwoman season 2.
She noted that Berlanti told her they should just reboot Batwoman as a different character -- rather than recasting a new face to slip into the cape and cowl. Furthermore, this is a way to pay respect to everything that Rose put into the character.
The story focuses on Kate Kane, viewers saw most of the series through her lens. It would be strange if a new face suddenly appears and play the titular role. After all, many have been used to seeing Rose's character and it would be odd seeing a new face entering the new installment.
Meanwhile, a new character leading Batwoman season 2 means some changes and adjustments. Reportedly, the new character is named "Ryan Wilder" and she is not like Kate Kane. The series would immediately differentiate the two. It remains to be seen how this character stands out in this world.
But according to Dries, Ryan Wilder is a whole new character who, in her past, inspired by Batwoman. She'll be taking on the mantle; she's a "scrappy twentysomething" living in a van with her plant. Based on her character description, she the most dangerous type of fighter.
Ryan Wilder could kill someone with her bare hands; she is highly skilled and wildly undisciplined. She's an out lesbian, athletic, passionate, fallible, and raw. The description notes the new character isn't a stereotypical All-American hero. It's interesting to see how this character evolves in Batwoman season 2.
