Batman: Daisy Ridley stuns as Catwoman in jaw-dropping image

With a new Batman coming to the DCEU, it’s expected we could also see a new Catwoman and there’s no denying Daisy Ridley would make an amazing choice to fill that role. 

It’s a strange time to be a DC Comics fan. There is a clear change of the guard unfolding before fans’ eyes as the old DCEU comes to a close and a new one is in the process of being built.

As the DCEU is rebuilt, old actors are being shown to the exit as DC prepares to bring in a wave of new actors to help play new versions of the most iconic characters in DC Comics. Among those set to be included in the upcoming reboot is Batman, who will take center stage in Batman: The Brave and the Bold. 

Not only is DC about to introduce yet another new Batman, but it’s expected the studio will look to introduce several iconic characters from the pages of the Batman comics which is why many have already begun speculating as to whether Catwoman will be among the first wave of heroes reintroduced in the new DCEU.

Catwoman is one of the most iconic characters in the Batman franchise. Her legacy in the Batman movies is a complex and multifaceted one, as different interpretations of the character have been presented over the years.

Who has played Catwoman in the Batman movies?

The first cinematic portrayal of Catwoman was in the 1966 Batman film, where she was played by actress Lee Meriwether. This version of the character was campy and comedic, with her trademark cat-themed costume and whip, and was in keeping with the overall tone of the film.

In 1992, director Tim Burton brought Catwoman back to the big screen in Batman Returns, played by actress Michelle Pfeiffer. Her portrayal has become one of the most beloved and iconic in the Batman movie franchise, with many fans considering it the definitive version of the character.

More than two decades later, Catwoman was given her own standalone movie with Halle Berry taking on the role. However, this film was poorly received by critics and audiences and is generally considered a low point in the character’s cinematic legacy.

The character would next return in Christopher Nolan’s acclaimed Dark Knight trilogy with Anne Hathaway in the role. Hathaway’s version of the character was a skilled thief and cat burglar, who eventually becomes an ally of Batman. Her portrayal was praised for its complexity and nuance and was seen as a refreshing departure from the more stereotypical depictions of the character.

Then came 2022’s The Batman which introduced Zoë Kravitz’s take on the beloved character in a film that dared to go where few others had before in exploring the romantic dynamic between Batman and Catwoman. Kravitz’s turn as Selina Kyle was a standout of the film with audiences eager to see more of the character within the universe Matt Reeves is crafting.

What Daisy Ridley could look like as Catwoman

With James Gunn having made it clear that Matt Reeves’ The Batman franchise will exist outside of the DCEU via DC Studios’ Elseworlds franchise, it’s clear Batman: The Brave and the Bold will hit the reset on Batman. This will allow for a new actor to ease into the role of the Caped Crusader and for DC to introduce new versions of iconic Batman characters.

Among those fans who seem to have the desire to see enter this new franchise is Catwoman and fans are wasting no time in sharing their dream castings. One name who has already emerged within the conversation is actress Daisy Ridley, who is no stranger to leading major blockbuster franchises.

Inspired by this recent chatter, digital artist Josh “Clements.ink” has debuted a stunning new piece of concept art that envisions Ridley in the role of Selina Kyle. In the incredible new art, Ridley is transformed into Catwoman as she dons the character’s iconic black leather suit which seems to have been inspired by the suit Zoë Kravitz rocked in The Batman. 

Although we don’t see Ridley rocking the traditional Catwoman cowl, the art does an amazing job of showcasing what Ridley could look like in the role and we definitely love what we’re seeing!

Will James Gunn’s Batman movie introduce a new Catwoman?

At this time, James Gunn has not yet confirmed which Batman characters will appear in his upcoming Batman film, Batman: The Brave and the Bold. As a result, it’s unclear whether a new Catwoman will be introduced in the film or whether they might look to avoid characters being utilized in the DC Studios Elseworlds franchise.

Given how many characters there are to choose from within the Batman Rogues Gallery, there are definitely plenty of options Gunn can choose from. So staying away from Catwoman at least in the first Batman project as part of the new DCEU seems like a smart move.