Black Lightning fans are still reeling from last week’s news that the show’s upcoming fourth season will be its last. But even before the series’ producers made the decision to close the book on the Pierce family story, one key cast member was already planning her exit from the Arrowverse. China Anne McClain, who plays Jennifer Pierce/Lightning on the show, recently revealed that Black Lightning season 4 was going to be her swan song either way.
McClain made this announcement in a lengthy video posted to her Instagram account. You can watch it for yourself below.
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“What I did know and have known along with the rest of the cast since before we even started shooting this season is that I am leaving the show and was leaving the show,” said McClain. “This was going to be my last season, regardless of if it went on or not. For different reasons, that, to be honest, I don’t want to go into. I just want y’all to trust me on it.”
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Consequently, Jennifer will show up in fewer episodes when Black Lightning returns. However, McClain insisted that her decision wasn’t motivated by bad blood with anyone else involved with the show.
“I’m not leaving because I had a terrible time working at the CW,” added McClain. “I like the CW. I like [CW network president] Mark Pedowitz, I like [Warner Bros. president] Peter Roth, [EP] Greg Berlanti, I love [showrunner] Salim [Akil], I always will. He gets it. And people that actually know me… they know why I make the decisions that I make.”
McClain has been part of Black Lightning’s cast since the series debuted in 2018. Her character eventually manifested her own electricity-based powers and began fighting alongside her father, Jefferson Pierce/Black Lightning, and sister Anissa/Thunder. Jennifer also dated Khalil Payne/Painkiller, who might get his own spinoff on The CW after Black Lightning ends.
Black Lightning season 4 will premiere on The CW in February 2021.
What are your thoughts on Jennifer Pierce having a reduced role in Black Lightning’s final season? Give us your take in the comment section below!
Recommended Reading: Black Lightning: Year One (New Edition)
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