As production begins on the upcoming live-action Birds of Prey film led by fan-favorite Harley Quinn, a recent report suggests DC Comics and Warner Bros. could be looking for a multiracial actress for Black Canary.
A new change could be coming to one of DC Comics’ classic superheroes in the upcoming Birds of Prey live-action film. A report from Heroic Hollywood states that the studio is looking for a multiracial actress to play a world-weary Black Canary who interestingly has the ability to sing.
While this would be a departure from the original source material, it is a change that doesn’t come as a surprise. Harley Quinn actress Margo Robbie recently spoke about wanting to diversify the cast for Birds of Prey specifically…
“Yep, yes exactly, real life isn’t so one specific images. We’ve got to reflect that onscreen…
I pitched the idea of an R-rated girl gang film including Harley, because I was like, ‘Harley needs friends.’ Harley loves interacting with people, so don’t ever make her do a standalone film. She’s got to be with other people, it should be a girl gang. I wasn’t seeing enough girl gangs on screen, especially in the action space. So that was always a big part of it.” –Margot Robbie
The film is reportedly set to feature Harley Quinn, Renee Montoya, Black Canary, Huntress, and Casandra Cain with the most recent rumors suggesting that Black Mask will be the film’s central villain.
A potential film synopsis also recently leaked, which could give some insight into the film’s overall narrative if it proves to be true…
“After [splitting] up with The Joker, Harley Quinn and three other female superheroes – Black Canary, Huntress and Renee Montoya – come together to save the life of a little girl (Cassandra Cain) from an evil crime lord.”
The Birds of Prey film does not currently have a release date, but it is scheduled to begin filming in early 2019. Check back for more information on the “R-rated girl gang” DC Comics film as it releases. As always, we will be watching!