Ruby Rose leaves The CW's 'Batwoman' ahead of season 2 production

Ruby Rose plays Bruce Wayne's cousin Kate Kane on Batwoman (Photo courtesy of The CW, Warner Bros. TV, Berlanti Productions)

The CW deals with a tough challenge as its lead star Ruby Rose leaves Batwoman ahead of the production of its second season. According to The Hollywood Reporter, production company Warner Bros. is looking to recast the role before the show's scheduled return in early 2021. The announcement of Rose's departure came two days after the show's season finale. Batwoman was geared to be The CW's anchor for its Sunday night programming. 

The comic-based show made TV history as the first scripted live-action series to have a lesbian superhero lead. It was essential to the producer Greg Berlanti, showrunner Caroline Dries, and the production team that the part went to a member of the LGBTQ community. Rose, Warner Bros. TV, and Berlanti Productions didn't disclose her reason for leaving the show, but all parties had kind words to say about each other in released statements.

"I have made the very difficult decision to not return to Batwoman next season," said Rose. "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. 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."

The CW, Warner Bros. TV and Berlanti Productions said jointly, "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."