Ruby Rose Exits Batwoman After One Season

 

Shocking news out of Gotham: Batwoman actress Ruby Rose is leaving the CW series after just one season. The show is returning for a second season as soon as conditions relative to the COVID-19 pandemic allow, and a new actress will take her place.

 

 

Variety reported the decision was Rose’s, but the reasoning was unclear. In a statement released today, the actress made clear her difficulty in walking away:

 

“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. 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 show has done well in the ratings in its freshman season, ranking third among the Berlanti-verse of DC CW shows, but it hasn’t been a smooth ride at all. Ruby Rose underwent emergency surgery early in the season for herniated discs, an accident presumed to be associated with the production of the show. Also, a production assistant was severely injured in a separate incident.

 

Neither of these incidents is said to be a factor in Rose’s decision. The CW and Warner Bros. Television are proceeding with the second season and will recast. They also released a joint statement:

 

“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.”

 

The CW at least has some time – none of its scripted shows will return before 2021.