How do you tease you’re playing Batgirl in an upcoming DC Comics movie while getting fans excited for what’s to come? Post a video of yourself training like you’re about to join SEAL Team Six or compete on American Ninja Warrior.
That’s what actress Leslie Grace did when she shared a video of her training regimen for her role as Batgirl in a new HBO Max movie. News of her groundbreaking casting made headlines this summer.
In the training video, Grace is seen doing pushups in an absolutely strenuous position that brings us pain just by watching. And we’re not the only ones who thought that or felt the pain in their backs as Grace trained.
While Grace training her body, the 2001 Reba McEntire song “I’m a Survivor” plays along. We love Reba, but “I’m a Survivor” as a workout song? Eh, maybe. We were hoping the actress might bust out some Anthony Santos or Natti Natasha, but maybe that’s during leg day.
In the new Batgirl movie, Grace will portray Batgirl’s alter ego Barbara Gordon, the daughter of Gotham City police commissioner Jim Gordon. “I am beyond excited to embody Barbara Gordon, your #Batgirl!” Grace tweeted when she was cast. “I cannot believe what I’m writing [right now]. Thank you, DC, for welcoming [me] to the family! I’m ready to give her all I’ve got!”
Leslie’s casting comes the same year as other Latine actors have been tapped in their own superhero movies, including Sasha Calle as Supergirl and Xolo Maridueña as Blue Beetle.
The Hollywood Reporter says the new Batgirl movie will likely debut in 2023.