The Flash’s Candice Patton Suits up as a Superhero
Iris West is getting the chance to take on the mantle of The Flash.
On Tuesday’s episode of The Flash, Iris West-Allen (Candice Patton) temporarily becomes a speedster. Mrs. West-Allen gains her powers when a metahuman swaps her and Barry Allen’s (Grant Gustin) DNA. During her time as a speedster, Iris comes up against Jacob Birch (Glee alum Max Adler), a meta who can control fire. The episode is titled, “Run, Iris, Run.”
Candice Patton, who portrays Iris West, has always looked forward to the idea of suiting up. During Season 2 of The Flash, she spoke to Kevin Smith about the idea saying, “I want it so bad…I look dope in leather.” Patton proves she does look good this episode, taking down bad guys in leather pants and a purple and white leather jacket.
The episode follows the common trope of the couple role reversal seen with iconic comic book couples, which include Lois and Clark. It’s a role reversal that Patton says will be about “the team trusting in her and her stepping out from behind the console and being a leader in a different way.”
Fans have shown their excitement for the episode with tweets and fan art, many of which Patton has shared on her Instagram.
Patton also learned the difficulties of being a speedster, but was grateful to have her co-star Grant Gustin as a guide. The actress found the experience “weird and challenging and fun and interesting all at the same time.” It’s also a monumental moment: not only is Candice Patton the first African-American Iris West, but now she’s also suiting up. It’s a move that adds more diversity to the superhero role. As this episode airs during Women’s History Month, it couldn’t be better timing.
The Flash airs Tuesdays on The CW at 8 pm ET.
