‘The Flash’s’ Candice Patton on Her Impact of Portraying Iris West

The Flash‘s Candice Patton has had quite the journey while becoming the beloved Iris West.

While attending the event “DC in D.C,” Patton spoke to The Washington Post about the impact of her portrayal as the comic book character, Iris West-Allen. In the Flash comics, Iris West Allen is a famed reporter and wife of Barry Allen (aka The Flash).

As Iris had always been a white woman, Patton’s casting created a backlash from some fans. The actress wasn’t initially prepared for this, but as she has “solidified the role, it doesn’t bother [her] anymore.”

In the upcoming Flash movie, Kiersey Clemons has been cast as Iris West. The role being given to an African-American actress is credited with Patton’s successful portrayal on the TV series. Fans growing love for the character on screen is also a testament to the power of representation. Patton believes that it’s “a really cool thing that young girls [of color] can see themselves as the ingénue.”

Patton reflects on the legacy of her character, stating that “generations after this will remember Iris West as black, whether that’s me, or someone else playing [the role] in the film. It’s a great thing.”

We’re glad to have Candice as our Iris West.

The Flash airs Tuesday nights on The CW.