Light the bat signal — The CW is now in search of a new leading woman.
Ruby Rose, who starred as the titular character in the network’s “Batwoman,” has abruptly left the show ahead of its filming of Season 2, according to Variety.
While there is no official reason given for Rose’s abrupt exit, the network promises that the show will indeed proceed with a new lead actress. The show was renewed in January for a second season.
“I have made the very difficult decision to not return to Batwoman next season,” Rose said in a statement.
“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.”
Last September, Rose revealed that she had to undergo surgery for a pair of herniated discs. This lead to speculation about her reasons for departing the project. However, a source close to Variety says that it “had nothing to do with her health or injury.”
“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,” Warner Bros. Television, The CW and Berlanti Productions in a joint statement.
“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.”