Kiersey Clemons is officially joining the DC Universe.
Clemons is set to star in The Flash as Iris West, a reporter who is the love interest of Barry Allen, The Flash himself.
Clemons was originally cast in the role for Zach Snyder’s version of Justice League, but between Snyder and Joss Whedon (who later took over production) her scenes were cut. Those scenes have reportedly been added back into the "Snyder Cut" of Justice League, premiering later this month. But with the new announcement, we know that that’s not the only screen time she’ll get in these superhero blockbusters.
Both Clemons and her costar Ezra Miller identify as queer, making this the first time a superhero movie had starred two queer actors.
While we don’t know any plot details, many expect The Flash to follow the Flashpoint story line from the comics, which introduces the multiverse. We do know that Michael Keaton, who played Batman in the 1980's, is set to reprise his role in the film, which will begin shooting in London next month. The film is scheduled to be released November 4, 2022.
The Flash is being directed by Andy Muschietti, the director of It, and features a screenplay by Christina Hodson (Bumblebee, Birds of Prey).
The DC Cinematic Universe isn’t unfamiliar to queer actors and characters. Bisexual antihero Harley Quinn appeared in Suicide Squad and her own movie, where she was joined by lesbian crime fighter Renee Montoya, played by Rosie Perez. Quinn will return in The Suicide Squad sequel coming this year, and is joined by Michael Rooker playing Savant, who is gay in the comics. Additionally, bisexual actress Amber Heard played Mera in Aquaman, but it is unsure if she will return after a court battle with her ex, Johnny Depp.
Clemons has starred in queer roles in indie movies like Dope and Hearts Beat Loud, and more recently has appeared as Joanne in the TV version of Rent: Live, voiced Darling in Disney+’s live action Lady and The Tramp, and played a role in Antebellum.
The Flash movie has been delayed several times. Not only has it changed scripts and directors, but last year when a video surfaced of Miller choking a woman, the project was almost completely scrapped. However it looks like now it’s back on.
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