It’s become a tradition for TV networks to reveal the costume of their superheroes early, because the designs will inevitably leak once filming begins. The CW’s Black Lightning is keeping that tradition alive, with a first look at its title hero in costume.
Earlier today, The CW sent out a photo of series star Cress Williams as Jefferson Pierce, the man better known as Black Lightning. In DC’s comic book universe, Black Lightning was created by Tony Isabella, and he has the distinction of being the first African-American superhero to headline his own series for DC Comics. If the television series goes forward at The CW, Black Lightning will also be the first DC hero to get his own live-action TV show.
The new costume was designed by Laura Jean Shannon, and the photo certainly seems to fit in with the other DC superhero dramas on The CW.
Also: DC’s ‘Black Lightning’ Lands a Pilot Commitment
Many Hollywood superhero costumes tend to downplay their comic book roots, but this one definitely looks like it’s honoring the source material. Black Lightning executive producer Salim Akil also shared his thoughts on the character in the network’s reveal of the costume.
“I knew way too much about the world as a young boy growing up in Richmond, California. I was no stranger to violence, death, hopelessness or the feeling that no one cared about what was happening in my life,” said Akil. “Comics were a great way for me to escape. I was about 13 when Black Lightning was created, and finally there was a Black Super Hero that gave a damn about our neighborhood and our lives. Resurrecting him at a time in our society when a sense of hope is lacking…Black Lightning will be that hope. And in updating the suit, it will signal to a new generation that it’s time to harness and release our power, and become our own Super Heroes.”
Black Lightning is currently filming in Atlanta, and it will be in contention for a slot on The CW’s 2017-2018 TV schedule.
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