Ruby Rose is leaving the Batwoman TV series where she played Kate Kane, the titular superheroine. The news came just two days after the first season finale aired on Sunday, May 17, 2020.

Following the news, The CW confirmed that the network and showrunners will recast the role ahead of its second season, which is set to return in January 2021.

“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,” Rose said in a statement. “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.”

Rose was introduced as Kate/Batwoman in the 2018 Arrowverse “Elseworlds” crossover, which led into the solo series. Batwoman is the first superhero series headlined by both an LGBTQ character and actress.

After Rose announced her departure, Warner Bros. TV, The CW, and Berlanti Productions released a statement that they intend to cast an LGBTQ actress for the role. “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.”