15 Actresses Who Could Shine as Barbara Gordon in the DCU

Barbara Gordon, known as Batgirl and Oracle, is a beloved DC character with a rich history as a skilled fighter and brilliant hacker. Her role in the upcoming DC Universe, possibly debuting in ‘The Brave and the Bold’, demands an actress who can capture her intelligence, resilience, and charm.

We’ve put together a list of 15 actresses who could bring this iconic hero to life, each with the talent to embody Barbara’s dynamic personality. From action experience to emotional depth, these performers have what it takes to make her a standout in the DCU.

15. Sadie Sink

Sadie Sink has shown her ability to handle complex characters with grit and heart. Her breakout role as Max in ‘Stranger Things’ (2016-2025) proves she can portray a tough yet vulnerable young woman, perfect for a younger Barbara Gordon.

At just 23, Sink’s age aligns with a fresh take on Batgirl, and her experience in high-stakes drama suggests she could nail the action and emotional beats of the role.

14. Karen Gillan

Karen Gillan’s action chops are undeniable, thanks to her role as Nebula in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ (2014-2023). Her ability to blend intensity with humor makes her a strong fit for Barbara’s confident crime-fighting persona.

Gillan’s experience in blockbusters like ‘Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle’ (2017) shows she can handle the physical demands of Batgirl while bringing a sharp wit to Oracle’s tech-savvy side.

13. Jane Levy

Jane Levy has a knack for blending humor and toughness, as seen in ‘Evil Dead’ (2013). Her ability to tackle action-heavy roles makes her a compelling choice for Barbara’s early days as Batgirl.

Levy’s charm and quick delivery could bring a lively energy to Barbara, whether she’s suiting up to fight crime or outsmarting villains as Oracle.

12. Lili Reinhart

Lili Reinhart’s role as Betty Cooper in ‘Riverdale’ (2017-2023) highlights her skill in playing determined, investigative characters. This aligns perfectly with Barbara’s sharp mind and relentless drive.

Reinhart’s emotional range could add depth to Barbara’s journey, especially if the DCU explores her transition from Batgirl to Oracle after personal challenges.

11. Abigail Cowen

Abigail Cowen led ‘Fate: The Winx Saga’ (2021-2022) with charisma and strength, showing she can carry a hero’s arc. Her fiery energy fits Barbara’s fearless attitude as Batgirl.

Cowen’s ability to portray a driven young woman could make her a standout, bringing both heart and intensity to Barbara’s dual roles in the DCU.

10. Emma Stone

Emma Stone’s versatility shines in films like ‘La La Land’ (2016) and ‘Cruella’ (2021). Her ability to balance charm and grit could make her a unique Barbara Gordon.

Stone’s sharp comedic timing and emotional depth would bring a fresh spin to Batgirl’s action scenes and Oracle’s strategic brilliance.

9. Kelli Berglund

Kelli Berglund impressed as Crystal in ‘Heels’ (2021-2023), showing her ability to play tough, ambitious characters. Her physicality suits Batgirl’s combat-ready nature.

Berglund’s youthful energy and determination could capture Barbara’s early crime-fighting days, making her a relatable and dynamic hero.

8. Jena Malone

Jena Malone’s intense performances in ‘The Hunger Games’ (2013-2015) prove she can handle action and complex emotions. Her edge could bring a grounded Barbara to life.

Malone’s ability to portray resilient characters would shine in Oracle’s tech-driven role, especially if the DCU emphasizes Barbara’s post-Batgirl journey.

7. Storm Reid

Storm Reid’s powerful work in ‘The Last of Us’ (2023-present) shows her ability to convey depth in high-stakes stories. Her poise makes her a great fit for Barbara.

Reid’s growing action experience and emotional range could highlight Barbara’s strength as both a fighter and a hacker in the DCU.

6. Leslie Grace

Leslie Grace was set to star as Barbara in the canceled ‘Batgirl’ film, proving she has the talent to embody the hero. Her role in ‘In the Heights’ (2021) showcased her charisma.

Grace’s athleticism and vibrant energy would make her a natural Batgirl, with the potential to explore Barbara’s emotional complexity as Oracle.

5. Anya Taylor-Joy

Anya Taylor-Joy’s commanding presence in ‘The Queen’s Gambit’ (2020) suggests she could excel as Oracle. Her ability to play sharp, strategic characters fits Barbara perfectly.

Taylor-Joy’s intensity and grace could bring a mature Barbara to life, especially if the DCU introduces her as a seasoned hero.

4. Bryce Dallas Howard

Bryce Dallas Howard’s work in ‘Jurassic World’ (2015-2022) shows her handling action with ease. Her warmth and strength make her a great Oracle candidate.

Howard’s ability to portray grounded, intelligent characters could add gravitas to Barbara’s role as a tech genius guiding the Bat-Family.

3. Sophie Turner

Sophie Turner’s role as Sansa Stark in ‘Game of Thrones’ (2011-2019) highlights her ability to play resilient, evolving characters. This suits Barbara’s arc from Batgirl to Oracle.

Turner’s commanding presence and emotional depth could make her a standout, bringing both strength and vulnerability to the role.

2. Hailee Steinfeld

Hailee Steinfeld’s action experience in ‘Hawkeye’ (2021) and ‘Bumblebee’ (2018) makes her a strong contender for Batgirl. Her youthful energy fits Barbara’s early hero days.

Steinfeld’s charm and quick wit could shine in Barbara’s interactions with the Bat-Family, while her depth adds layers to Oracle’s tech role.

1. Florence Pugh

Florence Pugh’s powerful performances in ‘Black Widow’ (2021) and ‘Midsommar’ (2019) show her range and intensity. She could redefine Barbara Gordon in the DCU.

Pugh’s ability to blend action, emotion, and charisma makes her ideal for both Batgirl’s dynamic fights and Oracle’s strategic brilliance.

Who’s your top pick for Barbara Gordon, or did we miss an actress who’d nail the role? Drop your thoughts in the comments!