The Flash star Grant Gustin has welcomed The CW's new Batwoman, Javicia Leslie, to the Arrowverse. Batwoman joined the network's DC shows last year, following her introduction in the Elseworlds crossover. There, she met Barry Allen, Oliver Queen, and Kara Danvers, introducing them to Gotham. The Flash and Batwoman also crossed paths during this season's Crisis on Infinite Earths crossover, where they worked with the other Arrowverse heroes to defeat the Anti-Monitor. Unfortunately, Gustin's character has interacted with that particular Batwoman, Kate Kane, for the last time.
Earlier this year, Batwoman star Ruby Rose announced her exit from the series. It came out soon after that instead of recasting her character, the show would create a different one to take up the Batwoman mantle. The new hero, named Ryan Wilder, will be played by Leslie, whose casting was announced earlier today. Ryan is described in part as "nothing like Kate Kane." However, Rose was quick to voice her support for Leslie on social media, even sharing how excited she is to watch Batwoman season 2. Now, Gustin, a prominent current member of the Arrowverse, has provided a message of welcome as well.
In an Instagram post shared shortly after Leslie's casting news broke, Gustin made a point to welcome the new Batwoman star. Following the series finale of Arrow earlier this year, Gustin now leads The CW's most senior Arrowverse show, making his message significant. Check it out below:
Though a simple statement of support, Gustin's words mean something considering he'll likely work with Leslie in the future. Not only do those on the Arrowverse shows often team up for promotional events, it's almost certain Gustin and Leslie's characters will meet in a future crossover. The Arrowverse season will look a little different next year, as all shows have been held until 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic. As of now, the crossover will only feature Batwoman and new series Superman and Lois. However, it seems likely the season after will be business as usual, setting up a meeting between the Flash and Leslie's Batwoman, if they don't interact before then.
Between Gustin and Rose's messages, it seems those in the Arrowverse, even former members, are excited about Leslie's Batwoman casting. Based on the character description, Ryan will be a fun addition to The CW's DC Universe and will likely have a different energy than Kate did with the other heroes, including the Flash. Though it will probably be awhile before the two interact onscreen, Gustin's message to Leslie will make viewers look forward to that moment.
Source: Grant Gustin