Batwoman – TVMEG.COM

Interview with Javicia Leslie, Meagan Tandy, Billy Gardell, Folake Olowofoyeku and Clayton Echard

Posted on February 18, 2022February 18, 2022 by TvMegasite Admin

TV Interview!

Warner Bros. TCA panel with actors from "Batwoman," "The Bachelor" and "Bob Hearts Abishola"

Interview with Warner Bros. actors by Suzanne 2/14/22

This was a fun panel for TCA (Television Critics Association) put on by Warner Brothers. I enjoyed the one they did last year, so I knew I would love this one, too. They didn’t disappoint. Last year’s was about comedy, and this year’s was about romance (since it was held on Valentine’s Day). It was called “With Love, Warner Bros. Television Group” and featured some of their best romances from their current shows: Javicia Leslie (Ryan Wilder) & Meagan Tandy (Sophie Moore) from Batwoman, Billy Gardell (Bob) & Folake Olowofoyeku (Abishola) from Bob ❤ Abishola, and Clayton Echard from The Bachelor.

I never miss an episode of “Batwoman” or “Bob ❤ Abishola,” so it was great to see the actors here. I’ve spoken with Javicia before, but it was great to see Meagan Tandy as well. Unfortunately, I didn’t get to ask a question this time around, but I enjoyed being there.

With Love, Warner Bros. Television Group

Javicia Leslie, Batwoman

Meagan Tandy, Batwoman

Billy Gardell, Bob ❤ Abishola

Folake Olowofoyeku, Bob ❤ Abishola

Clayton Echard, The Bachelor

2022 Virtual Tour

Los Angeles, CA

February 14, 2022

First, Javicia and Meagan were asked if they feel any special responsibility, since they’re the “first black lesbian leading couple on a superhero show.” Javicia answered that the whole show was a huge responsibility and featured many firsts. They make sure that they present themselves in a good way, both on- and off-camera, especially since their audience includes many children. It’s important to them to show a positive representation. Meagan agreed with that. She realized, after talking with teens, that having LGBTQ and black women on their show is a lot bigger than just the actors. She tries to tell the stories as authentically as she can. She was also asked about going from loving Kate to being with Ryan. She admitted that it was a “love rollercoaster” for Sophie, since she was married to man and in the closet in the first season. Then she had to deal with her feelings for Kate, and then all that happened with Kate leaving, and then Ryan coming into the picture. She said that it was “quite the journey for her,” but it’s been fun for her as an actor.

Javicia was asked whether she had been more concerned beforehand about taking over the physical part of playing Batwoman, or the emotional parts (with all of her family and romantic relationships). Javicia said she was most worried about whether the fans would approve of her or not, since she’s a superhero fan herself and loves “Batman.” She wasn’t worried about the physicality because she had done martial arts before, which is fun. She’s a dramatic actor, so she loves crying and all that. She loves that there are many fans of the show who love “Batwoman,” even if they may have lost some comic fans who don’t like that it’s not the Batman or Batwoman that they knew from the comics. She’s proud to be a part of this “new representation.” She tweets with her fans all the time, and they make it worth while for her. She’s “honored” to be a part of the show’s fanbase.

All of the actors were asked, which TV shows they used to watch that taught them “the most about love and how it gave you more perspective.”

Ryan and Sophie kissing on "Batwoman" Javicia spoke about the show “Martin” and how the characters Martin and Gina teased each other. It showed her that you need to have friendship and laughter in a relationship. She also mentioned watching the show “Family Matters” and other shows from that time.

Meagan said that she watched those shows, too, but her favorite was “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” because it was about a whole family’s love for each other, not just a couple. Her friends all loved the Disney movies with princess, which she didn’t like. Now they tease her because she’s in her 30’s and not married, but she has a boyfriend, so she hopes they’ll make it work. Javicia spoke encouraging to her about her boyfriend, saying, “Y’all will,” which was very cute. Then Meagan replied, “We’ll see where he takes me to dinner tonight,” and everyone laughed.

Meagan was asked about Sophie falling for two Batwomen and whether that’s her “type,” and also whether she’ll be talking to the writers about suiting up, like everyone else has. Meagan chattered about how originally she wasn’t going to be with Ryan, but then they changed their minds. Also, she was with Julia, who had also dressed like Batwoman, so it was really three Batwomans that Sophie was with. She joked about it, saying she probably has a bit of a fetish. She said that she doesn’t know about getting any kind of superhero suit. She was wearing the Crows uniform, but now that’s gone. She finished with, “So, for now, it’s just the suit of love,” which made everyone laugh.

Javicia and Meagan were asked what they thought people loved about superheroes – is it the need to be protected, or the need to be strong? Why do we fall in love with them? Javicia thinks that her partner is a superhero because a great partner puts your needs before their own, which is “attractive” and “sexy.” So is maybe having kids one day. She thinks that having a person out there saving everyone and helping people makes them attractive and you feel protected and it “just feels like home.” She said it seems to be the same kind of theme with all of them. Meagan agreed with that. She also observed that previous Batman actors were always portrayed by someone “who was really hot,” which made her desire them a bit. She also said that having a protector who is kind and honest, who wants to save people and “doing bigger work than themselves.” She hopes that might inspire people to be like that. Then there’s the fantasy aspect of having a super suit that keeps them protected.

Billy was asked about his Ozempic commercial and whether it was made, in part, to advertise his show. Billy seemed a bit taken aback by the question. It was a very odd question. Billy told us honestly that he didn’t do the commercial for that reason. He had developed Type 2 diabetes, and he had been on a medication that helped him. They asked him to try their medication, so he did, and he waited a year to make sure it worked before he agreed to do the commercial. It helped him get healthier, and not he doesn’t have to take ANY medication. He was able to “turn the corner,” thanks to the medication and being on the right track. He figured he would do the commercial to help others who might need help as well. He just wanted to hold himself accountable to it. He added, “I had to take that journey.” The journalist who asked that question told him that he did look great (and he does!).

Billy and Folake were asked about the possibility of their characters having a baby together on the show. Billy talked in general about how you have to have the discussion with your partner in marriage about whether you’re going to have children, and when, and that the relationships evolve and change. He said that their ages might be factor, and they might have to discuss that. He gave the example of whether Bob would be asking Abishola, “are you gonna be changing my diaper and the baby’s diaper?” Everyone laughed at that. He then praised the show, saying that “it’s never preachy.” It’s just two people in love and trying to do the best they can to be open and honest with each other, to be a strong couple. He told us that he’s been married for 22 years in real life. Folake talked about how much she has enjoyed the season, especially when they went to Nigeria. She says she watches those scenes over and over and loves how they were able to “share a Yoruba wedding with the world.” She also previewed that there are some good scenes coming “with the entire cast.” They’re going to have “a sock commercial,” which will be “really entertaining.” Neither of them really answered much about the baby plot point. They were obviously trying not to share any spoilers.

It was interesting to hear Folake’s real accent. She’s from Nigeria, but she went to boarding school, so she doesn’t have nearly as much of an accent as Abishola does.

In answer to the TV question, Billy talked about how much he loved “The Honeymooners” growing up, which his dad shared with him. He said that at the end of the day, Ralph knew that no matter how much he had messed up, his wife loved him, which made him a little bit more humble. He thinks that’s still a great message. Folake said that she used to watch Spanish telenovelas with the other girls at school, so that’s where she got most of her TV love experience.

Bob and Abishola kissing at their wedding on "Bob Hearts Abishola" They were each asked what they liked best about their real-life “sweethearts”. Folake replied that hers are her cats, which are named Bob and Abishola! She said, “They’re very adventurous and they can take on coyotes!” Billy said that he likes best about his wife that she stays with him. He went on a bit about how great she is: “She’s an amazing woman, and she has always been my rock.” He says that you should always do whatever your wife says. (As a wife, I agree with that)

They were also asked if they were surprised that the show has been embraced so well, given America’s problems with race. Billy said that he wasn’t surprised because the show is about love, and “love is always the secret sauce.” He said it so beautifully, that the audience knows it’s about love, and how the two love each other but have crazy families, and the show is also about how these families merge and can look past their differences. He stated, “it’s the common thread that we all share. In this world, all anybody wants is someone to love, somewhere to live, and a way to pay for that. If you keep it that simple I think people identify with it.”

Folake agreed that the show is all about love, which is what we all want. She also added that it was always going to be successful because it has Chuck Lorre in charge, and his whole production team that is so well-run. She finished with, “everyone is on their A-game, myself included, because we want to live up to that standard.” Billy agreed to that, too. She says it’s not surprising at all, and she thinks it has effects worldwide. It does very well in Africa and India.

Billy was also asked how much weight he’s loss, and he told us that he’s lost 102 pounds. It really does show. He joked that he would like to go on “The Bachelor” next year.

Folake also added her own comments in to the question about why we like superheroes so much. She thinks that is makes a great escape for viewers to just imagine being in that world. She also complimented the show, saying “this generation of Batwoman is like literally the Batwoman of my dreams. I wish I grew up on this shit. I wish I was a kid growing up watching you guys. It is so awesome. You guys are doing a great job.”

Billy loves the superhero stuff and sharing it with his son. He thinks there’s a “hopefulness with it, and I think that’s what superheroes give you, and it’s the feeling of safety. You feel like, wow, I wish someone was out there looking out for us like that.” He also agrees that it’s a way for people to escape, like Folake said.

Clayton was asked how he’s celebrating Valentine’s Day this year (even though he can’t tell us with whom he’s celebrating). He was also asked whether the show helped him with his holiday plans or if they hindered them. Clayton answered that he was recovering today from a “really fun weekend,” so he was drinking a lot of water and trying to save his voice, which was “a little shot.” He said that the dates on the show were “incredible” and he certainly did some things that set the bar very high, but of course he has to be realistic in the future (and on his own budget).

Clayton Echard kissing a blonde woman — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mnlLc4EMRz0
HED: ‘Bachelor’ Colton Echard Says ‘I’m In Love With 3 Women’ In Explosive 1st Look At Season 26

Clayton was also asked about what he learned with being on the show, especially about dating, relationships and what he might not have been doing before. Clayton gave the question some thought before answering. He admitted that he learned a lot, and watching it now on TV has also taught him a lot. He said that learning how to “pick up on body cues” was something that he had previously missed because there is a lot you can miss if you only pay attention to verbal cues. He added that he’s learning more about himself and “how to be a better person” so that he do better in the future.

Clayton replied to the question about TV shows to say that “Spongebob Squarepants” was the one that showed him the most about love. He enjoyed the friendship between Spongebob and Patrick. It showed him that “good friends stand by each other.” He said that we all want that love from both friends and family. Meagan agreed with him about it, saying she watched that show, too.

Clayton also answered about the superheroes. He said that “we’re all dreamers in some aspect, and so as kids we’re told to dream big. And that’s where these superhero movies really allow us to – as we grow up on them, watching them fight and all that – see their super powers. We hope, as we’re kids, to be able to have those same super powers.” We know that we can’t really be that way, but when we’re grownups, we remember that time, back when we were kids and thought we could be Batman or Superman.

MORE INFO:

About WarnerMedia

WarnerMedia is a leading media and entertainment company that creates and distributes premium and popular content from a diverse array of talented storytellers and journalists to global audiences through its consumer brands including: HBO, HBO Max, Warner Bros., TNT, TBS, truTV, CNN, DC, New Line, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Turner Classic Movies and others.

JAVICIA LESLIE

Ryan Wilder in “Batwoman”

Javicia Leslie stars as Ryan Wilder, a goofy, relatable, and street-smart lesbian who transforms into the hero Gotham’s been missing in The CW’s highly anticipated new drama “Batwoman.”

Leslie is known to television audiences for her role as Ali Finer on “God Friended Me” and Paris Duncan on “The Family Business.” On the feature film front, she recently tackled the lead role in hilarious new comedy, “Always a Bridesmaid,” penned by NAACP nominated Yvette Nicole Brown. Leslie also directed two short films this year, “Black Excellence” and “Howl.”

Born in Germany and raised in Maryland, Leslie graduated from Hampton University where she appeared in several productions including “Seven Guitars,” “For Colored Girls” and “Chicago.” As driven philanthropically as she is in her career, Leslie started The Chandler Foundation which gives back to youth in her community. When not filming, she spends her free time with her dog and staying healthy through her passion for fitness.

MEAGAN TANDY
Sophie Moore in “Batwoman”

Meagan Tandy stars as Sophie Moore, a high-level private security agent and one of Gotham’s staunchest protectors in The CW’s highly anticipated new drama “Batwoman.”

Tandy’s television appearances include roles in “Survivor’s Remorse,” “Teen Wolf,” “Jane By Design,” “Baby Daddy,” “The Mayor,” “Red Band Society,” “Necessary Roughness” and in the breakout critical darling “UnReal,” opposite Shiri Appleby and Constance Zimmer.

On the big screen Tandy starred in John Gulager’s remake of the iconic “Piranha 3DD,” “Unstoppable” and “The Trap,” opposite Queen Latifah and Mike Epps.

At 19, Tandy entered and won the Miss California Teen Pageant. One year later she was named Miss California, USA.

Billy Gardell
Bob in BOB ♥ ABISHOLA

Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Birthday: August 20

Emmy Award-nominated actor and comedian Billy Gardell starred with Melissa McCarthy in the hit Network series “Mike & Molly” as Officer Mike Biggs from 2010-2016. The series continues to air in syndication. Also, he had a recurring role as Herschel Sparks on YOUNG SHELDON, on the Network, and starred as Col. Tom Parker on the series “Sun Records.” In 2016 he received a Daytime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Game Show Host on “Monopoly Millionaires’ Club.”

Prior to “Mike & Molly,” Gardell co-starred in the critically acclaimed series “Lucky.” His other television credits include “Yes, Dear” and “Judging Amy,” both on the Network, “My Name Is Earl,” “The Practice,” “Monk” and “Gary the Rat,” among others.

He made his major motion picture debut alongside Anthony Quinn and Sylvester Stallone in “Avenging Angelo,” and had a memorable scene with Billy Bob Thornton in the film “Bad Santa.” Also, he appeared in “You, Me & Dupree.”

As a stand-up comedian, Gardell took the long road to Hollywood, stopping at every small-town lounge, military base and comedy club along the way. His comedy act took him to Los Angeles where his dedication to acting and stand-up comedy allowed him to grow consistently in both arenas. His stand-up show is a powerhouse with its grounded, down-to-earth point of view that strikes a strong chord with American audiences. Stories about his rough childhood, wild adolescence and new family life are executed with the skill of a master craftsman.

In 2011, his comedy special “Billy Gardell: Halftime” premiered on Comedy Central. His next special “Billy Gardell Presents Road Dogs” premiered on SHOWTIME in 2013.

A native of Pittsburgh, Gardell currently lives in Los Angeles. He loves Steeler football, stand-up comedy and his wife, Patty, and son, Will. His birthday is August 20. He can be followed on Twitter @BillyGardell and Facebook @billygardell.

Folake Olowofoyeku
Abishola in BOB ♥ ABISHOLA

Birthday: October 26

Nigerian-born actress Folake Olowofoyeku has won the hearts of critics and audiences as Abishola in BOB ♥ ABISHOLA. She received the 2019 Breakout Actress in TV Award for her work on the series on behalf of the Sync Con Honors. Her additional television credits include a recurring role on “Transparent” and guest roles on “The Gifted,” “Modern Family,” “How to Get Away with Murder,” “Westworld,” “Law & Order,” “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” and “Law & Order: Criminal Intent,” among others.

Olowofoyeku’s feature film credits include “When They Could Fly,” which earned her a Best Actress award at the prestigious ReelHeART International Film Festival in Toronto, “Central & Broadway,” for which she won Best Actress in a Fashion Film at the CinéFashion Film Awards, “Female Fight Club,” “The Bride,” “The Child Within” and “Hellbenders-3D,” among others.

As a voiceover artist, Olowofoyeku voiced the Priestess on the video game “Vader Immortal: A Star Wars VR Series – Episode 1.” Olowofoyeku’s other passion is music.

Olowofoyeku grew up in Lagos, Nigeria and spent time in London. Her native language is Yoruba. The youngest of 20 children, she always dreamt of being in the arts, a dream that went squarely against the wishes of her parents, Chief Babatunji and Chief Mrs. Felicia Olowofoyeku, who insisted on the family profession of law and politics. During a summer vacation in New York City, unbeknownst to her family, she began to pursue her goal as a student at City College of New York, where she distinguished herself on the basketball court competing with CCNY’s Beavers in the NCAA and earning a B.A. with honors in theater. Additionally, she earned a diploma in audio engineering from the Institute of Audio Research (IAR).

Currently, Olowofoyeku resides in Los Angeles. Her birthdate is Oct. 26. She can be followed on Twitter and Facebook @TheFolake and on Instagram @the.folake.

Clayton Echard

The Bachelor

DOB : April 29th – St. Louis, Missouri

Clayton Echard, who was first introduced as one of Michelle Young’s suitors in season 18 of “The Bachelorette,” not only connects romantically with the captivating Minneapolis school teacher but is also a favorite of Michelle’s middle school students. Ultimately, however, Michelle sends Clayton home, leading to one of the most emotional and heart-wrenching moments in “Bachelor” history. In that one touching moment, Clayton’s genuine desire to find a partner and start a family shines through, and never has it been so evident that one man deserves a second chance at finding that great love.

Nicknamed “Claynos” by his friends in the house due partly to his sculpted physique, Clayton grows stronger with every rose, opening himself up to Michelle in ways he never thought possible. This Midwestern man proves he is so much more than just a good-looking guy with a rock-hard bod. He’s a throwback romantic who’s not afraid to put himself out there for love.

Proofread and Edited by Brenda

Back to the Primetime Articles and Interviews Page

Warner Bros. actors panel

Interview with Javicia Leslie and Robin Givens

Posted on October 13, 2021March 15, 2023 by TvMegasite Admin

TV Interview!

"Batwoman" season 3 poster

Interview with Javicia Leslie and Robin Givens of “Batwoman” on The CW by Suzanne 10/11/21

This was a short but enjoyable interview! I watch this show every week, so I was thrilled to speak with them. Because there were 8 people at this press panel, I was only able to ask one question, unfortunately.

Question: Javicia, could you talk about Ryan’s initial encounter with Poison Ivy?

Javicia: Oh, my goodness. We haven’t had Ryan’s encounter with Poison Ivy yet, so it’s a little bit harder to talk about. You know, actually, Bridget [Regan] just started, and I wasn’t the first character that she’s worked with yet, but I’m super excited to work with her. I think it’s going to be an amazing addition and an amazing character to play with.

Question: This question is for Javicia. In season two, there was a lot around the cowl. It felt like Mary and Luke were both like, “This is temporary. This is a temporary thing,” and it wasn’t until the very end of the season, where they were kind of like, “Yeah, this is yours now, and Ryan is Batwoman.” How has that changed the way that you approached the character in season three?

Javicia: …I feel like a lot of the journey of Ryan feeling like she was worthy enough to be Batwoman did happen in season two, and yeah, you’re right, by the end of season two – she goes into season three with the acceptance of like, “I am that woman. This is my job. It is my job to protect the citizens. It is my job to keep order. It is my job to make sure that there is really a middleman between the GCPD and Gotham City. So yeah, it makes a huge impact on this season, on a lot of the things that are happening this season, just the confidence of knowing that Ryan no longer has to prove herself as Batwoman, but, I mean there’s still a lot of challenges that come up where she starts to kind of feel like, “Oh, no, did I mess other things up that are very important to the bat?” I can’t say what they are, but yeah.

Question: This question is also for Javicia. What was it like when you read the season two finale scripts and found out that your mom was alive? Then, what was your reaction when you found out Robin Givens I was gonna be your mom?

Javicia: I knew that was gonna be a question…So, at the end, I was shocked. I think I found out a little bit before I read the script, but even when I found out, I was shocked, because I just knew Ryan’s mom isn’t alive, that’s the story of my character. Then, I got super excited, because all I could think to myself is, “Oh my goodness, you’re gonna get to find out more about [Ryan]. I’m gonna get to find out more about Ryan.” You know what I mean? I’m gonna get to find out about her history and her story and what influences her, what could influence her.

Then, come on now, it’s Miss Robin Givens. I grew up watching Robin Givens. First of all, I still don’t think that we are even at the age distance apart for her to play my mom, but it’s really cool to pretend like this can be realistic, because she is such a joy to work with, and as an actor, it’s an honor to be able to really play with the greats. You know, you’re lucky if you can even sometimes grace presence with them on the stage together, but then for her to play my mom, and we’re having these one on one scenes together – I was saying earlier, I’m just constantly like, “Oh, okay, I see what she did there. I’ll try that later.” You know what I mean? I’m taking notes, because that’s the whole part of this journey, as well, is learning throughout the process.

Question: I want to know, Javicia, if you could talk about what it was like for you stepping into the Batwoman suit for the first time? And then, Robin, It looks like you have a wardrobe of designer dresses and everything, so if you could talk a bit about that too.

Javicia: The suit is epic. I think Maya Mani, our costumer at Batwoman, does such an amazing job with the suit. I think the way it fits, the streamlining, the the shape and silhouette that it creates, it’s so powerful. It’s so womanly, yet it’s still very badass, like, “Don’t mess with me.” So, I always say, whenever I put on the suit, I automatically feel like a superhero, because it does grab me up like this, and it makes me walk with my shoulders back and my head high, and you automatically kind of like feel the responsibility of being a hero.

Robin: I have to say, in a similar way for Jada Jet, it’s not this superhero costume, but you really see how people and costume designers win Oscars right for what they do, and it really helps you create a character. So, everything about the way Jada dresses says everything about her. I’m so different than Jada and a lot of the women that I play, but clearly when you put on those tight dresses, there’s only one way to walk in those high heeled shoes, and it really establishes the character. So, yeah, she’s dresses very well.

If you don’t mind go back, I just thought about something. Javicia and I’ve been talking quite a bit off set, and then, today we’re on set, and then whenever you kind of talk about me, it’s interesting, because I think of the first time when I did The Women of Brewster Place, and I found out Cicely Tyson was going to be my mom. I remember being so intimidated the first day walking into hair and makeup. Javicia and I got to have dinner together, so we got to feel each other’s rhythm a little bit. But I’ll never forget being in hair and makeup, and Cicely had her headphones on, and I was just thoroughly intimidated. She just seem like, “Oh my gosh.” And when I got to meet this lady, we became dear dear friends, and she’s the funniest person you could imagine. She’s like Javicia; like the times we have when we’re just cracking up. So, I don’t know. I just had a little bit of a flash of of that, you know, that sense of things. So, it warms my heart.

Javicia: Yeah, it’s an honor.

Suzanne: Javicia, Ryan has a lot to deal with this year. Last year, she almost gave up and died. What do you think gives her the inner strength, and the will to keep going despite all the odds against her?

Javicia: You know what she reminds me of? There are people in this world that they know their goal. They know what makes them feel like they’re alive, and they will do that to the day they die, to their last breath. That’s kind of what I take Ryan for. She’s a type of person where it’s like, “I can’t sit still. I have to help people, because no one helped me, and I want to make sure that I can help others the way I wish someone could have helped me.” So, it’s just like that’s why she gets into these moments of like, “This may be my last breath, but I’m not going to stop.” There was never a moment where she would have ever quit helping people. Whether she quit being Batwoman is different, and that’s because she felt like it wasn’t hers. You know what I mean? But she definitely would have never stopped helping people, because it’s who she is from the core.

Question: …Can you both talk about Nick, as the son for you Robin, and Javicia, as your brother?

Javicia: …Yeah he’s my brother. So, Marquis is a very interesting character. He’s so dynamic, and he’s so colorful and layered. I really look forward to you guys watching the development of Marquis. I think Marquis is going to be one of the biggest unexpected twists in the show, and it’s really going to open up a lot of doors and a lot of conversations.

What I love that Caroline [Dries] has done, is every season, it’s really her focus to bring up something that’s really happening in the world and it being something that we focus on through our storytelling. So, like, last season, the Black Lives Matters episode and everything that kind of surrounded it was obviously mirroring what was happening in the United States.

So, for this season, a lot of it has to do with mental health. So, I’m really excited, because Nick Creegan, who plays Marquis, is such a talented, dynamic actor, and to be able to play in this world, but also play with a theme that’s so personal and real to so many of us, he does it so amazingly well. So, it’s just an honor to be able to play with him. Literally, when he and Robin and I have scenes together, we leave like, “Yo, that was so much fun. I can’t believe we were able to do that.”

Robin: I have to say…we need to have this gathering again a little bit later. You’re going to be blown away by Nick and what he does. This character, it is unbelievable, and history making as well, and captivating and current and cool.

And for me, I have to say, what I love about this character, and I’ve been saying it, is yes, I played some powerful women before, and Jada Jet is so awesome and so powerful and runs a major company in Gotham City, but she’s a mom. She is a mom, and this is her soft spot, to the point where it could be her Achilles heel that she’s willing to do anything. And listen to me; hear me when I say “anything” for her children. I think the dynamic between Jada and Ryan, I mean, at first she keeps Ryan at bay, because of the guilt she feels about not being in Ryan’s life, but then, do we get close? Will I put her in danger being close to her, wanting to protect her, just loving her so much? So, I love that, because I’m a mom. So, I love that. I’m playing this powerful woman, but I’ve never kind of done it with that kind of sensibility of mom underneath it all. And even Javicia tells a story about one of the scenes that she and I and Nick did where she’s so much of a mom and does such peculiar things that Javicia was even like, “Maybe I don’t want to be a part of this family. Uh oh.”

Question: I have a question for Miss Javicia. So, Batwoman has pretty much always been a queer icon and icon in the queer community, but with your casting, now she’s also a an icon in the black community. So, my question is, when did it hit you that you’re representing these minority communities, and what does that mean to you?

Javicia: Honestly, no matter what role I do, I’m representing that, because that’s my community, you know what I mean? It’s really cool when the stories represent me as well, obviously, but I feel like one of the most important parts of representation is that even if the story isn’t about race, even if the story isn’t about gender, just us existing is that representation. So, anytime I get the honor of playing any character on TV, I feel like it’s my job to be my community’s representation [of] the best that I can be. Since that’s what always my goal is, it allows me not to put so much weight onto that and just put more weight into the work, you know what I mean? Like, it’s beautiful that it checks these boxes.

So, what I want to do is I want to match the quality of the storytelling with the history that it’s making. I don’t want to just be the first black Batwoman…When you turn it on, you’re watching it, and you’re captivated by the storytelling, by the storylines, by the the castings and the dialogue and the performances, that’s what I want to bring to life. I want that if I’m that representation, that I’m worthy to be of that representation. I think that this show, in the writing of it and the characters involved, allow that to happen. That’s why I’m really, really excited about the season. I’m more excited about this season than my first season. I’m really excited about this season, because I think that everything matches to the level of being able to say, “Wow, she’s black, she’s queer, and I feel proud of what they’re doing over there. I feel proud of that show.” It is a great representation of my community. That’s what I want to be a part of.

Question: My question is for both of you, starting with Javicia. I was wondering, as Ryan, when she finds out her mother’s alive and later on, interact[s] with her, from a psychological standpoint, does that have any influence [on you] or impact you as Batwoman? For Robin, can you talk about the psychological impact as well of learning more about Ryan?

Javicia: I mean, it definitely influences [her], because at the end of the day, there’re so many secrets that are happening at the same time that Ryan’s on this journey, and then, they start to conflict. Her journey of her trying to figure out this situation with her mom starts to conflict with her role as Batwoman, because at the end of the day, my job is to protect Gotham City. And if at any time, someone I love is interfering in that, it becomes a very complicated situation. That plays on a lot of different levels this season, like a lot of different levels, not just with, obviously, Jada Jet, but with other characters as well. So, psychologically, I think that it’s a very, obviously, tricky situation to be in when it’s your mom. You know what I mean? Like, no matter how much she wasn’t there, Ryan wants this relationship, because who wouldn’t want this relationship? And I think, more than anything, what Ryan wants to find out is that there had to be a reason why you gave me up. Ryan doesn’t want to feel like, “Oh, you just gave me up, because you didn’t want me.” She wants to feel like you gave me up, because, I don’t know, were you being hurt? Was it unplanned? So, that becomes very conflicted in her journey as well.

Robin: Yeah, I think that whole mother-daughter, you really see it, and especially being in the inside doing a scene with Ryan, and it seems adversarial at first, Ryan for her reasons, and Jada for her reasons of wanting to keep her at bay. Then, it’s nice to watch them become mother and daughter. Then, my daughter just happens to really know how to kick butts, like a serious bad ass. We do one scene, [and there’s] a look of, “Whoa!” But I think the psychology of dealing with the guilt that Jada feels, you know, and Jada just as a woman, I love the fact that her being a mother is really, like I said, could be her Achilles heel, and her love for her children. I mean, she loves and adores Ryan, and that brings up, I think, a lot of guilt for her that she wasn’t in her life. I think Ryan, you know, I can feel Ryan wanting to protect her. I can feel Ryan feeling her vulnerability. In spite of however Jada comes off, I see Ryan looking at me with these big eyes saying, “Love me. Am I okay? I did okay.” And that’s really nice to watch an actress play, to be this bad ass, put on this suit, kick butt, then, in a simple way, just say, “Am I enough? Do you think I did okay?”

Question: What is something that we’re going to see this season for Ryan or Batwoman that we haven’t seen before?

Javicia: The dynamic of a mother, which is a huge influence, mentally, emotionally, especially, is going to be a huge influence on the bat team. I don’t think that we realize how much that’s going to affect Ryan’s place in the bat team and the bat team’s place in Ryan’s life, because there’s a difference between the family that you choose and the family that you were born into. I think the moment that Ryan starts to feel like she has a family, starts to feel like [she] belongs somewhere, where she went a long time not feeling like she had anywhere to belong.

Another big change is we might see a little bit of romance in Ryan’s life, because we really didn’t get to see that last season. So, I’m excited for for that side of Ryan; I haven’t played that side of Ryan. So, I’m actually excited to play it, because I haven’t played it, and I would love to see what my natural Ryan instincts are going to be in the romance world. I’m probably a dork, to be honest, [laughs] because I am, and me and Ryan are so much alike. I’m glad I don’t have to like make the first move, because I kind of suck at that.

What else will we see? Oh, we’re bringing in a lot of the bat villains, so you’re gonna get to see Ryan interact with characters like Poison Ivy and the Mad Hatter, and like, come on; that’s really cool. This season of Batwoman is gonna be epic. It really is.

Here is the audio version of it.

Interview Transcribed by Jamie of http://www.scifivision.com

MORE INFO:

Wednesday, October 13 SEASON PREMIERE – “Mad As A Hatter” – (9:00-10:00 p.m. ET) (TV-14, LV) (HDTV)
SEASON PREMIERE – As Batwoman (Javicia Leslie) continues to keep the streets of Gotham safe, Batwing (Camrus Johnson) joins in on the action, but Luke quickly realizes he hasn’t quite mastered his suit. Meanwhile, as Alice (Rachel Skarsten) sits hopelessly imprisoned in Arkham, Sophie (Meagan Tandy) fully enjoys her freedom. When Ryan pays Alice a visit to ask about the bombshell she dropped – that Ryan’s birth mother is still alive – Ryan must decide if she should go down the rabbit hole of her past. As Mary (Nicole Kang) prepares to finally graduate from medical school, she feels the absence of her family more than ever. But when an Alice admirer stumbles upon one of the missing Bat Trophies, Gotham and the Bat Team get mixed up in the madness, culminating in a shockingly gruesome graduation… and an equally shocking new partnership. Also starring Robin Givens and Victoria Cartagena. Holly Dale directed the episode written by Caroline Dries (#301). Original airdate 10/13/2021. Every episode of BATWOMAN will be available to stream on The CW App and CWTV.com the day after broadcast for free and without a subscription, log-in or authentication required. Promo

“BATWOMAN”

Wednesday (9:00 – 10:00 p.m. ET) on The CW

In season three of “Batwoman,” Ryan Wilder (Javicia Leslie) has shed her parole for the Batsuit and her van for the Batcave to carry out the legacy of Batwoman and protect Gotham’s underserved communities. Her journey continues as she and the Bat Team focus on finding Batman’s scattered trophies, a collection of objects seized from Gotham’s most infamous villains, before they land in pernicious hands. Meanwhile, Ryan personally struggles with the bombshell dropped by Alice (Rachel Skarsten) – that her birth mother is still alive.

Alice is locked up in Arkham and holding on to hope that her father, a recently incarcerated Jacob Kane, will save her…but nothing can keep an evil woman down. Mary (Nicole Kang) is graduating from medical school and finding difficulty juggling her roles as a full-fledged MD at her clinic and as a vital part of the Bat Team. At the same time, Luke (Camrus Johnson) is winging it as a superhero after discovering a suit made for him by his father, but he soon realizes it takes more than a suit to be super. Having said goodbye to Kate and the Crows, Sophie (Meagan Tandy) feels free to find a new purpose, but while making the most of her newly liberated lifestyle, she finds herself in the middle of an exciting but very unexpected love triangle.

As visits from villains past loom over Gotham and anyone can become a baddie by finding a wayward Bat trophy, Renee Montoya (Victoria Cartagena) steps in to supervise recovery of the scattered artifacts, forcing an unwelcome partnership between Gotham’s favorite hero and most notorious ne’er-do-well. And despite best efforts to avoid her newly uncovered past, Ryan is thrust into the world of super mogul Jada Jet (Robin Givens) and her son Marquis (Nick Creegan) when Wayne Enterprises lands on the radar of another one of Gotham’s most powerful families.

BATWOMAN stars Javicia Leslie, Rachel Skarsten, Meagan Tandy, Nicole Kang, Camrus Johnson, Victoria Cartagena, Robin Givens, and Nick Creegan.

Based on the characters from DC, BATWOMAN is from Berlanti Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television with executive producers Greg Berlanti (“Arrow,” “The Flash,” “Supergirl”), Caroline Dries (“The Vampire Diaries,” “Smallville”), Geoff Johns (“Arrow,” “The Flash,” “Titans,” “DC’s Stargirl”), Chad Fiveash (“The Vampire Diaries,” “Gotham”), James Patrick Stoteraux (“The Vampire Diaries,” “Gotham”) and Sarah Schechter (“Arrow,” “The Flash,” “Supergirl”).

CREDITS FOR “BATWOMAN” ON THE CW

Day and time:	Wednesday, 8:00 – 9:00 PM ET/PT
Network debut:	October 6, 2019
Short Synopsis:	In season three of BATWOMAN, Ryan Wilder (Javicia Leslie) has shed her parole for the Batsuit and her van for the Batcave to carry out the legacy of Batwoman and protect Gotham’s underserved communities. Her journey continues as she and the Bat Team focus on finding Batman’s trophies, a collection of objects seized from Gotham’s most infamous villains, before they land in the wrong hands.
Cast:	Javicia Leslie as Ryan Wilder/Batwoman
	Rachel Skarsten as Alice
	Meagan Tandy as Sophie Moore
	Nicole Kang as Mary Hamilton
	Camrus Johnson as Luke Fox
	Victoria Cartagena as Renee Montoya
	Robin Givens as Jada Jet
	Nick Creegan as Marquis Jet

Executive Producers:	Greg Berlanti, Caroline Dries, Geoff Johns and Sarah Schechter
Produced by: Format:	Berlanti Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television Drama 60 min (Filmed in HD)
Origination:	Vancouver, British Columbia

JAVICIA LESLIE

Javicia Leslie (from Batwoman video on Instagram) Ryan Wilder in “Batwoman”

Javicia Leslie stars as Ryan Wilder, a goofy, relatable, and street-smart lesbian who transforms into the hero Gotham’s been missing in The CW’s highly anticipated new drama “Batwoman.”

Robin Simone Givens (born November 27, 1964) is an American actress and model. She is also a graduate of Sarah Batwoman -- “Loose Tooth” -- Image Number: BWN302b_0018r -- Pictured (L-R): Robin Givens as Jada Jet -- Photo: Katie Yu/The CW -- © 2021 The CW Network, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Lawrence College.

Givens landed her breakthrough role of Darlene Merriman in the ABC sitcom Head of the Class in 1986, and remained on the series for its 5-year duration. Her troubled marriage to boxer Mike Tyson from 1988 drew considerable media attention, as did their acrimonious divorce. She later went on to become a spokesperson for the National Domestic Violence Hotline for several years.

Givens continued her career with film and television roles such as The Women of Brewster Place (1989) and Boomerang (1992). In 1996, Givens co-starred on the sitcom Sparks, which aired for two seasons on UPN. In January 2000, she took over hosting duties on the syndicated talk show Forgive or Forget. In 2007, Givens released her autobiography, Grace Will Lead Me Home. She has since had recurring roles on The Game, Tyler Perry’s House of Payne, Chuck, Riverdale and its spin-off Katy Keene. She starred in “Ambitions” on OWN in 2019.

From Entertainment Weekly:

She has been cast in the series regular role of Jada Jet, the powerful CEO of Jet Industries who “isn’t bossy — she’s the boss.” Described as “passionate and hard-working,” Jada is “a woman who has worked her way through life’s ups and downs to climb her way to the top — all while being extremely protective over her impetuous son.”

But perhaps the most important part of Jada’s character description is the revelation that she has “a deep past that forced her to give up her first-born child.”

Proofread and Edited by Brenda

Back to the Primetime Articles and Interviews Page

Javicia Leslie as Batwoman and Camrus Johnson as Lucius Fox

Primetime DVD Review: “Batwoman – The Complete First Season on Blu-ray”

Posted on August 8, 2020April 20, 2021 by TvMegasite Admin

DVD Review!

“Batwoman – The Complete First Season” Review by Suzanne 5/20/20

This is a great comic book show, and a good entry into the “Arrowverse” (or whatever they’re calling the superhero shows on The CW now). I’ve enjoyed watching every episode each week. They do a great job with balancing the action and the character development, with a little bit of humor. At first, I tried to compare it with “Gotham,” but it’s a very different show. However, it does have certain qualities that are similar to that show. It can be very twisted, bizarre and wacky at times (particularly the villains).

The season ending with some shockers – especially the reveal of Bruce Wayne’s lookalike. After the season ended, it was revealed that star Ruby Rose would not be returning as Kate Kane. This is a terrible disappointment because she did such a great job in the role. She will definitely be missed. I hope that the person that replaces her as Batwoman (not as Kate Kane) will be just as good. I have to wonder how this will affect the rest of the show, which was built around Kate’s father, sister, enemies, girlfriends, etc.

The DVD is just as good as the series. I’m reviewing the Blu-ray here. There is a lack of extras, however. Perhaps that’s because of the pandemic? I don’t know. The only features are “The Best of DC TV’s Comic-Con Panels San Diego 2019” and deleted scenes. That sure isn’t enough. I hope that future versions (perhaps the complete set) will have a lot more than that.

MORE INFORMATION:

The CW’s #1 New Show

BATWOMAN:

THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON

Contains All 20 Exhilarating Episodes from the First Season,

Plus All-New Special Features!

Available on Blu-ray™ & DVD August 18, 2020

Blu-ray includes a Limited-Edition Bonus Disc

with All Five Episodes of the DC Crossover Event

Crisis on Infinite Earths and 6 Crossover Bonus Features!

BURBANK, CA (April 30, 2020) – The future of Gotham is in her hands with the release of Batwoman: The Complete First Season on Blu-ray and DVD on August 18, 2020 from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment. Strap yourself in for an exhilarating ride with all 20 episodes from the first season, plus The Best of DC TV’s Comic-Con Panels San Diego 2019, deleted scenes and a gag reel. A limited-edition bonus disc featuring all five DC Crossover Event Crisis on Infinite Earths episodes will be available exclusively for fans who purchase the Blu-ray. Batwoman: The Complete First Season is priced to own at $39.99 SRP for the DVD ($44.98 in Canada) and $44.98 SRP for the Blu-ray ($49.99 in Canada), which includes a Digital Copy (U.S. only). Batwoman: The Complete First Season is also available to own on Digital via purchase from digital retailers.

Kate Kane never planned to be Gotham’s new vigilante. After Batman disappeared, Gotham was in despair… until she returned. Armed with a passion for justice and a flair for speaking her mind, she soars through the shadowed streets of Gotham as Batwoman. But don’t call her a hero yet. In a city desperate for a savior, she must first overcome her own demons before becoming Gotham’s symbol of hope.

“In only its first season on the air, Batwomanquickly established itself as the #1 new show on The CW given its legendary superhero following, stellar casting, and action-packed drama,” said Rosemary Markson, WBHE Senior Vice President, Television Marketing. “With 2.1 million people tuning in weekly, the devoted fan base for this phenomenal series will love the extra content on the discs, while newcomers can catch up on the hit series just in time for Season 2.”

With Blu-ray’s unsurpassed picture and sound, Batwoman: The Complete First Season Blu-ray release will include 1080p Full HD Video with DTS-HD Master Audio for English 5.1. Featuring all 20 episodes from the first season in high definition, as well as a digital code of the season (available in the U.S. only).

Batwoman stars Ruby Rose (Orange Is the New Black, John Wick: Chapter 2), Rachel Skarsten (Birds of Prey, Reign), Meagan Tandy (unREAL, Teen Wolf), Nicole Kang (You), Camrus Johnson (The Sun Is Also A Star), Elizabeth Anweis (NCIS: Los Angeles, 9-1-1), and Dougray Scott (Departure, Snatch). Based on the characters created for DC by Bob Kane with Bill Finger, Batwomanis produced by Berlanti Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television with executive producers Greg Berlanti (Arrow, The Flash, Supergirl), Caroline Dries (The Vampire Diaries, Smallville), Geoff Johns (Stargirl, The Flash, Titans) and Sarah Schechter (Arrow, The Flash, Supergirl).

BLU-RAY & DVD FEATURES*

On The Set
The Best of DC TV’s Comic-Con Panels San Diego2019
Deleted Scenes
Gag Reel

*Special Features are subject to change.

20 ONE-HOUR EPISODES

Pilot
The Rabbit Hole
Down, Down, Down
Who Are You?
Mine Is a Long and a Sad Tale
I’ll Be Judge, I’ll Be Jury
Tell Me the Truth
A Mad Tea-Party
Crisis on Infinite Earths: Hour Two
How Queer Everything is Today!
An Un-Birthday Present
Take Your Choice
Drink Me
Grinning From Ear to Ear
Off With Her Head
Through the Looking Glass
A Narrow Escape
If You Believe In Me, I’ll Believe In You
A Secret Kept From All the Rest
O, Mouse!

DIGITAL

Batwoman: The Complete First Season is currently available to own on Digital. Digital allows consumers to instantly stream and download all episodes to watch anywhere and anytime on their favorite devices. Digital is available from various retailers including iTunes, Amazon Video, Google Play, Vudu, PlayStation, Xbox and others. A Digital Code is also included in the U.S. with the purchase of specially marked Blu-ray discs for redemption and cloud storage.

THE BASICS

Street Date: August 18, 2020

Order Due Date: July 14, 2020

BD and DVD Presented in 16×9 widescreen format

Running Time: Feature: Approx. 880 min

Enhanced Content: Approx. 57 min

DVD

Price: $39.99 SRP ($44.98 in Canada)

5 DVD-9s

Audio – English (5.1)

Subtitles – English SDH

BLU-RAY

Price: $44.98 SRP ($49.99 in Canada)

5-Discs (4 BD-50s + 1 BD-50 BONUS DISC)

Audio – DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 – English

BD Subtitles – English SDH

About Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Inc.

Warner Bros. Home Entertainment (WBHE) brings together Warner Bros. Entertainment’s home video, digital distribution and interactive entertainment businesses in order to maximize current and next-generation distribution scenarios. An industry leader since its inception, WBHE oversees the global distribution of content through packaged goods (Blu-ray Disc™ and DVD) and digital media in the form of electronic sell-through and video-on-demand via cable, satellite, online and mobile channels, and is a significant developer and publisher for console and online video game titles worldwide. WBHE distributes its product through third party retail partners and licensees.

About DC

DC is one of the largest English-language publishers of comics and graphic novels in the world and home to some of the most iconic and recognizable characters ever created. As a creative unit of WarnerMedia, DC is charged with strategically integrating its stories and characters across film, television, consumer products, home entertainment, interactive games and the DC Universe subscription streaming service. For more information visit dccomics.com.

Proofread and Edited by Brenda

The opinions in these articles are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of TVMEG.COM or its other volunteers.