Batwoman
The CW
Season 2 Episode 1
What Happened to Kate Kane?
Official Description – While Kate’s friends and family hold on to hope that Kate may still be found, a homeless 25-year-old named Ryan Wilder stumbles upon Kate’s batsuit.
The premiere episode of the season deals with the fallout of a missing Kate, and how multiple characters are affected by her disappearance.
The bulk of the story revolves around the show’s newest character, Ryan Wilder. It opens with her being awakened from a memory filled dream in her van, to the sight and sounds of an airplane crash. When she goes to the accident to offer help to any would be survivors, she discovers the Batsuit. Ryan has a compelling past, and the viewer learns she has intentions on using the Batsuit for personal goals. She also deals with her feelings on what it means to be Batwoman.
Meanwhile, Mary Hamilton and Luke Fox are anxiously awaiting the arrival of Kate Kane when it becomes obvious, something has happened to her plane. As her friends and family are made aware of the crash, and disappearance, an unexpected visitor shows up. Unfortunately, they are not who they appear to be.
Julia Pennyworth and Sophie Moore face each other and must deal with their shared love for Kate and how their own interactions will continue. Their ultimate goal is their search for Kate.
Kate’s father and sister’s grief is overwhelming. Jacob Kane mourns the possible death of Kate. When the whereabouts of Alice are revealed, he confronts her and learns something shocking about Kate, as well as Alice’s ruined plans for her death. He later sends a signal to an old enemy in the hopes of proving Alice wrong. Alice, for her part, falls even deeper into madness. And she ultimately finds a new nemesis for her games.
Ryan is introduced to Mary and Luke. And while their first interaction was difficult due to the unusual circumstances, they must work together to stop a infiltrator from stealing a valuable possession. Mary learns of Ryan’s past, and believe she and Luke have misjudged her. They also learn that Ryan was injured in battle. As the show ends, Ryan discovers something very unusual.
I must admit, I was unhappy when I learned that Batwoman show runners had chosen not to replace the character of Kate Kane. However, after watching this episode, my mind has been changed. The introduction of Ryan Wilder brings an exciting change to the narrative. Javicia Leslie’s acting chops and martial arts background make her an excellent addition to the cast.
There is so much new story to be told. It is especially intriguing to ponder how she will be received by Alice, as well as how she will view everyone that is in the know of Batwoman’s double life. And while I am happy Kate Kane’s story has been constructed for a return, I am looking forward to more adventures with this new addition to the Bat Family.