Isabela Merced Breaks Down Hawkgirl’s Trauma-Filled Backstory in 'Superman'

Isabela Merced is stepping into the DC Universe (DCU) spotlight as Hawkgirl in James Gunn’s highly anticipated Superman, set for release on July 11, 2025. The film introduces a new superhero team, the Justice Gang, featuring characters like Guy Gardner’s Green Lantern (Nathan Fillion) and Mister Terrific (Edi Gathegi).

Merced plays Kendra Saunders, a reincarnated hero burdened by past lives and traumas. On DC’s official podcast, Merced teased that Hawkgirl’s story is “really dark,” adding, “She carries all of the memories and traumas…so she has a little bit of a grumpy demeanor.”

Originally introduced in comics in 1999, Kendra has a complex past, having taken her own life before being reborn as the ancient Hawkgirl, Shiera Hall.

Merced, known for roles in The Last of Us season 2 and Madame Web, will also reprise Hawkgirl in Peacemaker season 2 on HBO Max later this year.