Leslie Grace Returning As Batgirl For DC After Movie Canceled?
Some are speculating that the addition of Christina Hodson to Batman: The Brave and the Bold could mean Leslie Grace will show up in the film as Batgirl.
Warner Bros caused quite a stir in 2022 when the highly anticipated live-action blockbuster, Batgirl, was unexpectedly canceled. The film, set to be exclusively released on Max, featured Leslie Grace as the iconic Barbara Gordon, and fans were excited to see her onscreen performance. Now, it seems like the actress may get to return to the role in Batman: The Brave and the Bold.
James Gunn first mentioned The Brave and the Bold in January, with the film forming part of the DC Universe’s Chapter One: Gods and Monsters reveal. The movie is expected to have a slightly lighter tone than Matt Reeves’ The Batman. The story will focus on Bruce and Damian Wayne, with their strained father-son relationship as the primary focus.
According to CBR, recent developments in The Brave and the Bold could reintroduce Leslie Grace as Barbara Gordon. Along with The Flash director Andy Muschietti tapped to helm the project, Christina Hodson is said to be writing the script. This is excellent news for Batgirl fans, as Hodson wrote the Batgirl movie, which was supposed to delve into Barbara’s journey of self-discovery.
With Hodson on board, Leslie Grace’s Barbara Gordon could fit into the story by adding strain to the dynamic between Bruce and Damian. Moreover, fans would finally get to see the first big-screen portrayal of Batgirl since Alicia Silverstone’s interpretation. It would also demonstrate Warner Bros’ commitment to rectifying a creative misstep.
The cancellation of Batgirl was a major blow to Leslie Grace. However, reinstating her as a supporting character alongside Batman could be a great way to make amends. In the context of The Brave and the Bold, Batgirl’s inclusion as an ally feels organic, as seen in the animated series and comics. Though specific plot details remain scarce, the al Ghuls will likely play a significant role.
Leslie Grace’s Barbara can also help Damian understand Bruce’s character by highlighting his compassion for orphans and his impact on her life. Regardless of the circumstances, Batgirl will always see Batman as a vital influence that adds an emotional resonance to her story grants her agency in Damian’s upbringing, and reinforces her presence in Bruce’s life.
Batgirl, featuring Leslie Grace as Barbara Gordon, was directed by Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah from a script by Christina Hodson. The film would have seen the return of JK Simmons as Commissioner James Gordon and Michael Keaton reprising his iconic role as Bruce Wayne/Batman. The cast included Brendan Fraser’s Firefly, Ivory Aquino, Jacob Scipio, Rebecca Front, Corey Johnson, and Ethan Kai.
Leslie Grace recently addressed the defunct film, saying it had the potential to do really well. “I wish we could have gotten to share what we spent so much time making,” she said. She added that the film was significant beyond its storyline as it held symbolic importance for the Latino community.
From the moment she was cast, Leslie Grace felt a strong sense of responsibility to represent and uplift her community. “I definitely was made very aware of that from the moment that I was cast. I was very excited to do my best to carry that with pride and carry it well,” she said.
