Batwoman season 2: 6 characters who could replace Kate Kane
By Mark Lynch
These DC Comics characters can replace Kate Kane as Batwoman.
The unfortunate news that Ruby Rose will no longer be playing Kate Kane in The CW’s Batwoman TV series has left the show in a bit of a dilemma. Since she’s gone, the big question is what now?
Fan already knew that The CW is moving forward with a second season – that much is certain. However, as it was recently revealed, instead of just recasting Kate Kane, the Batwoman creative team is looking to bring in an entirely new character.
It looks like we could be done with the Kate Kane character at least for the time being. It’s disappointing considering that the creative team for Batwoman has only begun to scratch the surface of who Kate Kane is and what she can do. However, going with another character may be a good idea.
Some fans may have find it too strange if the show attempted to explain why Kate looks completely different (not-to-mention the fact that it could also be a grueling task attempting to recreate all of her tattoos should the new actress not have any). With that in mind, even though it’s disheartening to see the show go in another direction, it could be a gift in disguise. Especially if one of the following characters are used…
Barbara Gordon (Batgirl)
Yes, her name isn’t Batwoman. But, let’s be honest. Many of us may have wondered why she never dropped the “girl” from her name. She’s a grown woman. Even Susan Richards eventually dropped the girl from her name.
If Batman exists in the Arrowverse, then it would only make sense that Batgirl does as well. Having Barbara Gordon replace Kate Kane could make the transition smooth. Barbara is well versed in the Bat-World and the whole superhero business. Plus, it’s certain that she’s kept up on everything that was going on in Batwoman’s world. Most likely as Oracle.
Speaking of Oracle, the CW could always use Oracle in Batwoman and have another member of the Bat-family take up the mantle.
Cassandra Cain (Orphan)
Saying Cassandra Cain isn’t much of a talker is an understatement. She doesn’t talk in the comics which may not translate to the screen. Sure, the action would be superb, but dialogue is a big part of any show – particularly with the star of the show. It may be tough to get around, but this could be how Barbara Gordon steps in to help.
For all we know, Barbara could still be an Oracle-like presence in this world (Killing Joke or not). If Barbra is Oracle, she could be Cassandra’s teacher. Teaching her to speak and helping her grow into an adult. In the comics, Cassandra Cain was Batgirl. It’s not so far of a stretch that she could take this mantle as well. Even if she’s a young adult. Also, At the end of one of the Detective Comics runs, Barbara stepped in to become Cassandra’s teacher.
Stephanie Brown (Spoiler)
Admittedly, this writer is not a fan of Stephanie Brown. At times, she can be a little annoying. Nonetheless, Spoiler is amazing at what she does. If you’re going to be a member of the Bat-Family, you can’t be a one trick character. She’s incredibly intelligent and a tough fighter. Stephanie excels at fighting, but her ability to hack computers and be stealthy are among the best in the Bat-Family.
The benefit of using Stephanie is her intelligence. We’d see more computerized infiltration on top of sneaking into buildings and knocking out goons. The fans would absolutely eat this up. Stephanie Brown could be a better character on the show than she is in the comic. Plus, if she’s beloved on the show, maybe we see her become Batwoman in the comics someday. After all, she was Batgirl and Robin before.
Helena Bertinelli (Huntress)
Huntress may not bear the Bat emblem and team up as frequently as the rest, but she’s a member of the family. When Batman and the rest of the team are in trouble, she’s right there by their side. When Alfred was killed (City of Bane), she was ready and willing to kill Thomas Wayne.
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This one may feel like a bit of a stretch. Sure, she was a member of the Birds of Prey with Batgirl. But she’s not a member of the family like the rest of the people on this list. Changing her to Batwoman would upset some of Huntress’ fans. She has an identity of her own that might not work (especially if it’s the same version we met on Arrow eight years ago). Nonetheless, this is an alternate reality. It could happen.
Harper Row (Bluebird)
Bluebird is a relatively new character that debuted in 2011. Unlike everyone else on this list, Bluebird isn’t an “active” member. She would probably help out if she was truly needed, but she’d rather help heal people at a clinic than punch villains in the face.
That said, she could easily come out of retirement in Batwoman; the need to fill the void that Kate Kane leaves behind whenever she is inevitably written out could be a central part of her arc. Plus, her skill as an electrical engineer could add some new layers to the show. Also, Harper being bisexual keeps the creative team’s promise of Batwoman remaining a part of the LGBTQ community.
A new Batwoman
Creating an original character worked for Harley Quinn in Batman the Animated Series. Why not try it in Batwoman? If fans of the character have to get a new Batwoman on the show, the creative team could solve the problem by creating one of their very own.
Ryan Wilder is what the character was named on the casting call, but we’re still not sure if that’s her final name. Perhaps it’s just a guise for another legendary DC Comics character. But what if it’s not?
The Arrowverse is no stranger to changing up the source material from time-to-time, and who knows, an original Batwoman that could blossom into something bigger than anyone is expecting? If it were to happen, this could all be a gift in disguise.
What do you think? What direction would you go in? Let us know in the comments below.