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Hawkgirl (Kendra Saunders) is the name of a fictional
superheroine A superhero or superheroine is a stock character that typically possesses ''superpowers'', abilities beyond those of ordinary people, and fits the role of the hero, typically using his or her powers to help the world become a better place, ...
appearing in
American comic book An American comic book is a thin periodical originating in the United States, on average 32 pages, containing comics. While the form originated in 1933, American comic books first gained popularity after the 1938 publication of ''Action Comics'' ...
s published by DC Comics. Kendra Saunders was created by writers James Robinson &
David S. Goyer David Samuel Goyer (born December 22, 1965) is an American filmmaker, novelist and comic book writer. He is best known for writing the screenplays for several superhero films, including ''Nick Fury: Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D. (film), Nick Fury: Agent ...
and artist Scott Benefiel, and she first appeared in '' JSA: Secret Files and Origins'' #1 (August 1999). Actress
Ciara Renée Ciara Renée Harper (born October 19, 1990) is an American actress and musician. She is best known for her roles on Broadway as The Witch in ''Big Fish,'' the Leading Player in ''Pippin'', and Elsa in '' Frozen.'' She played Esmeralda in ''The H ...
portrayed the character in The CW's Arrowverse television series ''
The Flash The Flash (or simply Flash) is the name of several superheroes appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by writer Gardner Fox and artist Harry Lampert, the original Flash first appeared in ''Flash Comics'' #1 (cover date ...
'' in the first season finale, appeared in the Arrowverse crossover ''
Heroes Join Forces "Heroes Join Forces" is the second Arrowverse crossover event that features episodes of the television series ''The Flash'' and ''Arrow'' on The CW. The event began on December 1, 2015, with ''The Flash'' episode "Legends of Today" and concluded ...
'', and starred in the first season of '' Legends of Tomorrow''.


Publication history

The new Hawkgirl was introduced as part of the 1999 revival of the JSA monthly title. The new Hawkgirl is Kendra Saunders, granddaughter of the Golden Age Hawkgirl's cousin,
Speed Saunders Cyril "Speed" Saunders is a DC Comics character, first appearing in '' Detective Comics'' as the first featured character in the anthology series around the Golden Age of Comic Books created by E.C. Stoner. He is depicted as an adventurer and det ...
. Hawkgirl would continue to appear regularly in the monthly ''JSA'' series and later in the ''Hawkman'' monthly. In 2006, the ongoing ''Hawkman'' monthly series was retitled ''Hawkgirl'' starting with issue #50 as part of the " One Year Later" jump forward; Kendra replaced Hawkman as the lead character. The ''Hawkgirl'' comic book series was finished with issue #66. Kendra was a recurrent member of the Birds of Prey.
Oracle An oracle is a person or agency considered to provide wise and insightful counsel or prophetic predictions, most notably including precognition of the future, inspired by deities. As such, it is a form of divination. Description The word '' ...
first solicits her assistance in issue #104 in dealing with the Secret Six, for which Oracle rewards her with a car. Throughout the Russian arc, Hawkgirl serves as a team member and develops a rivalry with Secret Six member Scandal. She was a member of the Justice League of America at its relaunch, but left the team due to injuries sustained in ''
Final Crisis "Final Crisis" is a crossover storyline that appeared in comic books published by DC Comics in 2008, primarily the seven-issue miniseries of the same name written by Grant Morrison. Originally DC announced the project as being illustrated solely b ...
''. Kendra and the original Hawkman (Carter Hall) were killed during the ''Blackest Night'' storyline; Katar Hol had been killed previously in a final battle with the Hawkgod, and Carter Hall, who had reincarnated in a new body, replaced him as Hawkgirl's partner. Carter and Shiera were resurrected after ''Blackest Night'', but Kendra has since been killed again.


Fictional character biography

Kendra Saunders was a young latina woman who committed
suicide Suicide is the act of intentionally causing one's own death. Mental disorders (including depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, anxiety disorders), physical disorders (such as chronic fatigue syndrome), and s ...
. When Kendra's soul left her body, that of her grandfather's first cousin Shiera Sanders Hall, the Golden Age Hawkgirl and Carter Hall's wife entered it, making Kendra a
walk-in Walk In can refer to: *Walk In, 1997 Hong Kong film directed by Herman Yau * ''The Walk-In'' (TV series), a British TV crime drama series * "The Walk In" (''The Americans''), an episode of the US TV series ''The Americans'' * Walk-in (concept) * '' ...
. Her grandfather, former OSS agent and globe-trotting adventurer
Speed Saunders Cyril "Speed" Saunders is a DC Comics character, first appearing in '' Detective Comics'' as the first featured character in the anthology series around the Golden Age of Comic Books created by E.C. Stoner. He is depicted as an adventurer and det ...
, recognized this, in part due to a change in eye color, and encouraged his granddaughter to embrace her destiny as the "new" Hawkgirl. Kendra had a daughter named Mia, who is not shown but mentioned. Still believing herself to be Kendra, she debuted as a hero using the original Hawkgirl's equipment and set out in search of a being called the Fate-Child (actually her own reincarnated son, Hector Hall). This led to a meeting with the Justice Society and Kendra's induction to that team. She currently has all of Kendra's memories, but almost none of Shiera's save for fighting experiences. This creates tension with Hawkman since he remembers all of their past lives together and believes they are destined for each other. Kendra has been presented as a very troubled young woman, haunted by the murder of her parents by a corrupt cop and confused by her jumble of memories and feelings. She has operated as
Hawkman Hawkman is the name of several superheroes appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by writer Gardner Fox and artist Dennis Neville, the original Hawkman first appeared in ''Flash Comics'' #1, published by All-American ...
's partner but only recently begun to actually admit her attraction to him. The truth about Kendra's identity was eventually revealed to her by the angel Zauriel. She is one of the heroes who fought in space during the Rann-Thanagar War. Following the events of Infinite Crisis, a Zeta Beam transporter malfunction injured many of the superheroes in space, including Hawkgirl, causing her to grow over twenty feet tall.
Some time later ''Some Time Later'' ( es, Tiempo después, links=no) is a 2018 Spanish-Portuguese surreal humour, absurdist comedy film directed by José Luis Cuerda which features an ensemble cast of actors and comedians. Set in the year 9177 and based on the ep ...
, her proper stature restored, Kendra was shown living in St. Roch, Louisiana, working in Stonechat Museum and protecting the city as Hawkgirl. She is also a returning member of the new Justice League, having effectively served with the team when the original members were previously missing. A brewing relationship between Hawkgirl and Red Arrow became one of the major subplots in the series though it appears to have ended. Hawkgirl is now 100% Kendra Saunders. Shiera Sanders' soul left Kendra's body and moved on to the afterlife. Shiera hopes her passing on will finally remove the curse of Hath-Set.


''Hawkman'' Vol. 4 (2002–2006)

In the ''
Hawkman Hawkman is the name of several superheroes appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by writer Gardner Fox and artist Dennis Neville, the original Hawkman first appeared in ''Flash Comics'' #1, published by All-American ...
'' ongoing monthly comic book series, Hawkgirl was presented as a very afflicted young woman, seeking clarity regarding the murder of her parents by a corrupt cop and confused by her jumble of memories and feelings. She had all of Kendra's memories but almost none of Shiera's. This created tension with
Hawkman Hawkman is the name of several superheroes appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by writer Gardner Fox and artist Dennis Neville, the original Hawkman first appeared in ''Flash Comics'' #1, published by All-American ...
since he remembered all of their past lives together and believed they were destined for each other. She operated as Hawkman's partner, but eventually began to actually admit her attraction to him. One of Kendra's past lives is revealed as the bounty hunter,
Cinnamon Cinnamon is a spice obtained from the inner bark of several tree species from the genus ''Cinnamomum''. Cinnamon is used mainly as an aromatic condiment and flavouring additive in a wide variety of cuisines, sweet and savoury dishes, breakfa ...
, a reincarnation of the Egyptian princess Chay-Ara. As such, she becomes the lover of Prince Khufu's reincarnation, the hero Nighthawk. When Cinnamon is assaulted by the burglar "Gentleman Jim" Craddock, Nighthawk hangs him up, thereby tying his destiny to theirs. Cinnamon, along with Nighthawk, is killed by the latest incarnation of
Hath-Set Hath-Set is a DC Comics supervillain created by Gardner Fox and Dennis Neville. The character is the archenemy of Hawkman and Hawkgirl. Publication history Hath-Set first appeared in ''Flash Comics'' #1 and was created by Gardner Fox and Denn ...
, their biggest enemy. Kendra eventually meets with the police officer Hawkwoman, who was searching for her missing partner
Katar Hol Hawkman (Katar Hol) is a DC Comics superhero A superhero or superheroine is a stock character that typically possesses ''superpowers'', abilities beyond those of ordinary people, and fits the role of the hero, typically using his or her po ...
, previously possessed by a creature known as the Hawk Avatar. Also seeking to arrest the Thanagarian criminal Byth Rok, Shayera Thal asked for Kendra's help. Working together they were able to defeat the villain. Before departing to Thanagar with Byth as her prisoner, Hawkwoman gave Hawkgirl her harness as symbol of their recently formed friendship. Hawkgirl felt that she wasn't the first person
Hawkman Hawkman is the name of several superheroes appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by writer Gardner Fox and artist Dennis Neville, the original Hawkman first appeared in ''Flash Comics'' #1, published by All-American ...
would turn to in a moment of crisis, treating her as a damsel in distress incapable of holding her own, and degrading her position in both the eyes of the Justice Society of America and in their partnership. She observed that he would frequently treat her as a sidekick, a relationship that Kendra denied, wanting to be seen as his equal. Toward the end of the series Hawkgirl reveals all of her feelings to Carter, causing him to apologize and admit that he was treating her wrongly all along. The story finishes on a romantic note with the Hawks fighting together during the '' Rann-Thanagar War''.


''Hawkgirl'', the series

The ''Hawkman'' ongoing monthly series was retitled to '' Hawkgirl'', with Kendra replacing Carter as the lead character. Hawkgirl is seen protecting St. Roch, Louisiana in the absence of Hawkman, and working in Stonechat Museum. She fights Khimaera several times, finally killing her. She is later abducted and put on mock trial for high treason against her people by a group of rogue Thanagarian criminals, at the instigation of Blackfire. After declaring her guilty, one of the rogues ties her hands behind her back, covers her mouth with a piece of duct tape, and attempts to execute her by hanging — whereupon Kendra finds that she can hover without her wings, and is thus able to fake her death and defeat the criminals. Kendra then becomes a direct target of Blackfire who decides to go to Earth, herself, to kill Hawkgirl and Hawkman. Together, the Hawks defeat her and take away her powers. Kendra later fights alongside the Furies of
Darkseid Darkseid () is a supervillain appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. The character was created by writer-artist Jack Kirby to serve as the primary antagonist of his "Fourth World (comics), Fourth World" metaseries, and was firs ...
when St. Roch is attacked by an evil doomsday weapon of
Apokolips Apokolips is a fictional planet that appears in American comic books published by DC Comics. The planet is ruled by Darkseid, established in Jack Kirby's Fourth World series, and is integral to many stories in the DC Universe. Apokolips is co ...
, a stolen Beta-3 Gizmoid. It turns out that the gizmoid is linked to the Hawks' old enemy, Hath-Set, as it had been taken to Earth ages ago and landed in Ancient Egypt during Hath-Set's reign, and hidden in a canopic jar. Due to Hath-Set's efforts to reacquire the jar, the gizmoid is reactivated near Stonechat Museum. According to its programming, it spots Hawkgirl and, choosing her as a template, assumes her form in order to begin Earth's eradication. Tracking it, the Female Furies arrive by Boom Tube but are rendered conscious. As a giant mechanized version of Hawkgirl, the gizmoid begins attacking St. Roch with its arsenal of weaponry.
Bernadeth Bernadeth is an extraterrestrial supervillainess appearing in comic books published by DC Comics. Publication history She first appeared in ''Mister Miracle'' #6 (February 1972) and was created by Jack Kirby. Fictional character biography Co-lea ...
and the other Furies try to destroy the gizmoid but are unsuccessful. But, due to her brief connection with the gizmoid, Hawkgirl discovers a weakness whereby she and the Furies are able to defeat it. Hawkgirl's plan works and the gizmoid falls to pieces, but afterward the vampiric
Bloody Mary Bloody Mary originally referred to: * Mary I of England (1516–1558), Queen of England and Ireland, so called because of her persecution of Protestants Bloody Mary may also refer to: Film * '' Urban Legends: Bloody Mary'', a 2005 horror fil ...
, one of the Furies, turns on Hawkgirl as she lies unconscious. Fortunately, Danny Evans had been following the battle and shows up just in time. He manages to delay Bloody Mary just long enough for Hawkgirl to reawaken and subdue her. The Female Furies collect Bloody Mary and reluctantly thank Hawkgirl for her efforts before departing. Kendra finally resolves to take the fight to her mortal enemy,
Hath-Set Hath-Set is a DC Comics supervillain created by Gardner Fox and Dennis Neville. The character is the archenemy of Hawkman and Hawkgirl. Publication history Hath-Set first appeared in ''Flash Comics'' #1 and was created by Gardner Fox and Denn ...
, who had been spying on her for some time. Hawkgirl starts getting closer to finding him with the assistance of
Batman Batman is a superhero appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. The character was created by artist Bob Kane and writer Bill Finger, and debuted in Detective Comics 27, the 27th issue of the comic book ''Detective Comics'' on ...
,
Superman Superman is a superhero who appears in American comic books published by DC Comics. The character was created by writer Jerry Siegel and artist Joe Shuster, and debuted in the comic book ''Action Comics'' #1 (cover-dated June 1938 and publi ...
, and
Oracle An oracle is a person or agency considered to provide wise and insightful counsel or prophetic predictions, most notably including precognition of the future, inspired by deities. As such, it is a form of divination. Description The word '' ...
. During her search Kendra is kidnapped by Hath-Set and taken to Egypt.
Hawkman Hawkman is the name of several superheroes appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by writer Gardner Fox and artist Dennis Neville, the original Hawkman first appeared in ''Flash Comics'' #1, published by All-American ...
follows on a rescue mission, but is captured and imprisoned by Hath-Set's minions. Meanwhile, Hawkgirl is able to free herself. She encounters Hath-Set, and after a final battle, kills him and saves Hawkman. The two now finally find peace, breaking the cycle of reincarnation and failure. They can see themselves falling in love again, but with Hawkgirl asserting that, this time, Carter must earn her love.


''Justice League of America''

Hawkgirl's main story arc in the early issues of Justice League of America Vol. 2 centered around her relationship with Red Arrow. Initially both were looking for a fling, but then found themselves in love, with Hawkgirl even meeting his daughter Lian, a result of his former romance with
Cheshire Cheshire ( ) is a ceremonial and historic county in North West England, bordered by Wales to the west, Merseyside and Greater Manchester to the north, Derbyshire to the east, and Staffordshire and Shropshire to the south. Cheshire's county t ...
. Their relationship became one of the major subplots of the series, with
Black Canary The Black Canary is the name of two superheroines appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics: Dinah Drake and her daughter Dinah Laurel Lance. The original version was created by the writer-artist team of Robert Kanigher and ...
's disapproval of the relationship bringing some tension to it. Additionally, Power Girl advised Red Arrow not to get involved with Hawkgirl, as she was destined to eventually return to Hawkman (Carter Hall). Despite everything the two started dating, with the Justice League later finding out after Red Tornado caught Hawkgirl and Red Arrow sleeping together. This was the beginning of a turbulent relationship, with past relationships, parenting, and the inability to express their feelings to each other causing problems. Red Arrow's constant pain due
Cheshire Cheshire ( ) is a ceremonial and historic county in North West England, bordered by Wales to the west, Merseyside and Greater Manchester to the north, Derbyshire to the east, and Staffordshire and Shropshire to the south. Cheshire's county t ...
's absence, and Hawkgirl conflicted feelings regarding
Hawkman Hawkman is the name of several superheroes appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by writer Gardner Fox and artist Dennis Neville, the original Hawkman first appeared in ''Flash Comics'' #1, published by All-American ...
brought stress in their romance, causing the couple to fight regularly. Eventually the relationship dissolved and Red Arrow left the Justice League. While in a mission with the Justice League inside the '' Prison Planet,'' Hawkgirl discovered another ability provided by the Nth Metal, the power to weaken forces drawn from the fabric of space-time. Thus, Kendra was the only member not affected by
Kanjar Ro Kanjar Ro is a supervillain appearing in comic books published by DC Comics. Publication history He first appeared in ''Justice League of America'' #3 (February 1961) in a story entitled "The Slave Ship of Space" and was created by Gardner Fox an ...
, enabling her to fight against the villain and rescue her friends. Hawkgirl then left the Justice League due to injuries sustained in
Final Crisis "Final Crisis" is a crossover storyline that appeared in comic books published by DC Comics in 2008, primarily the seven-issue miniseries of the same name written by Grant Morrison. Originally DC announced the project as being illustrated solely b ...
.


''Blackest Night''

In ''Blackest Night'' #1, Kendra is shown having an argument with Hawkman over whether or not to visit
Jean Loring Jean Loring is a character appearing in comic books published by DC Comics, formerly associated with the Atom, for whom she was a supporting character and primary love interest. She first appeared in ''Showcase'' #34 (October 1961), created by writ ...
's grave with the Atom. As the two heroes quarrel, the reanimated corpses of Ralph and
Sue Dibny Susan Dibny (née Dearbon) is a fictional character from DC Comics associated with the Elongated Man. Created by John Broome and Carmine Infantino, the character first appeared in ''Flash'' vol. 1 #119 (March 1961). In 2004, she became a flashp ...
, now members of the
Black Lantern Corps The Black Lantern Corps is a fictional organization of corporeal revenants (resembling intelligent zombies or jiangshi) appearing in comic books published by DC Comics, related to the emotional spectrum. The group is composed of deceased fiction ...
, enter Hawkman's sanctuary. The Black Lanterns attack, Sue impaling Hawkgirl on a spear. Ralph taunts Hawkman, telling him that Hawkgirl never loved him; a claim she refutes with her dying breath. Hawkman is killed shortly afterward, and both heroes are reanimated as Black Lanterns by
Black Hand Black Hand or The Black Hand may refer to: Extortionists and underground groups * Black Hand (anarchism) (''La Mano Negra''), a presumed secret, anarchist organization based in the Andalusian region of Spain during the early 1880s * Black Hand ...
himself.''Blackest Night'' #1 (July 2009) During the battling at Coast City, the Atom is chosen by the Indigo Tribe to be more effective against
Nekron Nekron is a supervillain appearing in comic books published by DC Comics, specifically those related to Green Lantern. Created by Mike W. Barr, Len Wein and Joe Staton, the character, who exists as an embodiment of Death, first appeared in '' Ta ...
's forces. The Atom tells Indigo-1 to keep his involvement in the deployment of the troops a secret, and asks that she help him find a way to legitimately resurrect Hawkman and Hawkgirl. In the final battle, the duo are transformed by Hal Jordan into the White Lantern Corps and upon Nekron's destruction, they are both resurrected. Hawkgirl says she remembers all her past lives, then unmasks to reveal herself to be Shiera, she and Carter joyfully reuniting.


''Brightest Day''

In the '' Brightest Day'' crossover, Carter and Shiera follow Hath-Set, who has collected the bones from all of their past bodies, and created from them a portal to
Hawkworld ''Hawkworld'' is a comic book series published by American company DC Comics from 1989 to 1993. The initial storyline was published as a three-issue mini-series and then, based on the high sales and interest level generated by this limited serie ...
. While there, Shiera is told by the Entity to stop Hath-Set from killing Carter because if he dies one more time, he will not undergo the cycle of resurrection again. Shiera is attacked in Hawkworld's dungeon and captured by Hath-Set. She is then taken to the Queen of Hawkworld, who reveals to Shiera that she is her mother. Hawkgirl is tied by Hath-Set and Queen Khea to the gateway, and they strike her in order to lure Hawkman to the location. Hawkman and his group of the panthera attack the Manhawks homeworld. When Hawkman arrives and draws his attention, Shiera turns the tables on Hath-Set and uses her legs to snap his neck, killing him. In the meantime, Hawkman is held by Queen Khea's control of Nth metal mace and armor, and she puts Carter with Shiera. Queen Khea opens the gateway and enters the portal to the Zamaron homeworld. When she arrives on the Zamaron homeworld, Star Sapphire ( Carol Ferris) frees them both to stop Queen Khea's invasion. Hawkgirl soon faces her mother, but the Predator feels the lack of love inside Khea's heart bond with her and does not know if she truly is able to contain the power of true love. The Predator makes Khea his host, but Shiera and Carter manage to separate both of them by stabbing Khea at the same time with weapons made of Zamaronian crystals. The bones of the past lives of Hawkman and Hawkgirl separate from the gateway and, animated by the power of the violet light of love, grab Khea and imprison her in the Zamaronian Central Power Battery. Shiera and Carter, with both of their missions accomplished, have their lives returned and Carol teleports both of them back to the museum of St. Roch. There, the couple, happy for finally defeating the curse, start to take off their clothes in order to make love, but they are suddenly interrupted by the apparition of
Deadman Deadman or Deadman's may refer to: * "Deadman" or "dead man", are alternative terms for a dead man's switch * "Deadman's foot" is another name for a Salamander in metallurgy * "Deadman anchor" is a buried object (log, concrete, block, etc.) used ...
, brought there by his white ring. The ring gives Shiera and Carter an order that they must live separately to live life stronger (because they appreciate love more than life itself), but when Carter replies by saying they are not going to live apart again, the ring responds "So be it" and unleashes a blast of white light that turns Hawkman and Hawkgirl into white dust, while Deadman looks in horror. Deadman orders the ring to resurrect both Hawkman and Hawkgirl, but the ring refuses, and tells him that Hawkgirl is unique and that she was brought back life to overcome what held her back in her past life because she is essential in saving Earth. When the "Dark Avatar" made his presence known, Hawkgirl and Hawkman are revealed to be part of the Elementals. They were transformed by the Entity to become the element of air and protect the Star City forest from the Dark Avatar, which appears to be the Black Lantern version of the Swamp Thing. The Elementals are then fused with the body of Alec Holland in order for him to be transformed by the Entity into the new Swamp Thing and battle against the Dark Avatar. After the Dark Avatar is defeated, Swamp Thing appears to have brought the Elementals back to normal; however, as Hawkman looks around for Shiera, he discovers that she was not brought back like he was. He is later told by Swamp Thing that Shiera is everywhere, revealing that she is still the elemental of air. Afterward, Hawkman returns home yelling "Shiera".


''The New 52''

In 2011, DC Comics rebooted its continuity as part of the publishing event '' The New 52''. In stories set on DC's Prime Earth, the ''Savage Hawkman'' story arc "Hawkman Wanted" (''Savage Hawkman'' #13-16, and optionally issues #0 and #12) explains the character's place in the New 52. Shayera Thal is revealed as the princess of Thanagar, former lover of
Katar Hol Hawkman (Katar Hol) is a DC Comics superhero A superhero or superheroine is a stock character that typically possesses ''superpowers'', abilities beyond those of ordinary people, and fits the role of the hero, typically using his or her po ...
and sister of the Emperor Corsar. Initially, she is depicted as a villain, seeking revenge against Katar and coming to Earth to bring Katar to justice for his crimes against Thanagar and the murder of Corsar. It is later evident that Katar was innocent and Shayera is surprised when she discovers her brother alive and behind Katar's arrest in the attempt to part Katar from the Nth metal and own it for himself. She then sacrifices herself in order to save Katar's life. Following DC's '' Convergence'' storyline, the Silver Age version of Hawkgirl is featured in a Pre-Crisis universe. With the story taking place right after the events of '' Shadow of War'' miniseries,
Hawkman Hawkman is the name of several superheroes appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by writer Gardner Fox and artist Dennis Neville, the original Hawkman first appeared in ''Flash Comics'' #1, published by All-American ...
and Hawkgirl have been captured inside a domed Gotham City. They are featured working as curators in the city's museum, while also fighting crime against hidden Thanagarians that had the original intent of conquest over the Earth, admitting later that they abandoned it when the dome came down. One of the rogues explains that they have seen the future, and that their universe will not survive. Hawkman and Hawkgirl watch as their world starts collapsing due to the Crisis, but they also realize that there might be a new beginning and they fly off with hope in their hearts.


''DC Rebirth''

In March 2016, DC Comics developed '' DC Rebirth'', as a relaunch of its entire line of ongoing monthly superhero comic books. Using the end of '' The New 52'' initiative in May 2016 as its launching point, '' DC Rebirth'' restored the DC Universe to a form much like that prior to the '' Flashpoint'' storyline while still incorporating numerous elements of '' The New 52'', including its continuity. Following this, Hawkgirl made her first appearance in '' Dark Days: The Forge'' and '' Dark Days: The Casting'', which served as a prelude to '' Dark Nights: Metal''. Hawkgirl was originally born as Chay-Ara, the lover of the Egyptian prince Khufu. One night, Khufu and Chay-Ara discovered a Thanagarian ship that had landed on Earth. The ship was made of the mysterious Nth Metal. Exposure to the metal forced Chay-Ara and Khufu, as well as their enemy
Hath-Set Hath-Set is a DC Comics supervillain created by Gardner Fox and Dennis Neville. The character is the archenemy of Hawkman and Hawkgirl. Publication history Hath-Set first appeared in ''Flash Comics'' #1 and was created by Gardner Fox and Denn ...
, into a cycle of endless reincarnation through time and space. Chay-Ara lived countless lives, before being reborn most recently as Kendra Saunders, while her lover's latest incarnation is Carter Hall. Kendra Saunders made her ''DC Rebirth'' debut in '' Dark Nights: Metal'' #1, she is introduced as the leader of the current Blackhawks, an anti-apocalyptic team. Seeking to prevent the Dark Knights' invasion on Earth, Hawkgirl warned the Justice League of the upcoming invasion of the Dark Multiverse and later worked with the League to help them defeat the Dark Knights. Hawkgirl is also a member of the Immortal Men, a group of the oldest beings of Earth. As such, she was entrusted by the Immortals with the mission of using the Anti-Monitor's astral brain in the
Rock of Eternity The Rock of Eternity is a fictional location appearing in American comic books featuring Captain Marvel / Shazam and/or his associated characters, first in publications by Fawcett Comics and later by DC Comics. In many versions of the Capta ...
to destroy the Dark Knights. However, when she tried to do so, she was interrupted by Barbatos who transformed her into a dark-hawk version of herself called
Lady Blackhawk Lady Blackhawk is an alias used by three fictional comic book characters appearing in American comic books. The first, Zinda Blake, was introduced in a DC Comics publication in 1959 (''Blackhawk'' #133); the second, Natalie Reed, appeared in a DC ...
. It's later revealed that because of Barbatos's influence, Kendra's bond to the Nth Metal was merged into her being. She now boasts an altered physiology reminiscent to her past life as a Thanagarian, which resulted in the grafting of Nth Metal wings to Hawkgirl's back. Hawkgirl regained control of her body after Wonder Woman used her
Lasso of Truth The Lasso of Truth is a weapon wielded by DC Comics superhero Wonder Woman, Princess Diana of Themyscira. It is also known as the Lariat of Truth, the Magic Lasso, the Lasso of Hestia or the Golden Perfect. It was created by William Moulton Mars ...
on her, restoring Kendra's memories. After finding Hawkman's Nth Metal mace, Wonder Woman and Hawkgirl traveled through a portal to Earth, where they ended up fighting various corrupted versions of the Justice League. During their battle, Hawkgirl encountered Hawkman possessed by the darkness of ''Barbatos''. She was able to release him from the villain's command after encouraging Carter to remember all their past lives together. After assisting in the defeat of ''Barbatos'' and the ''Dark Knights'', Hawkgirl is recruited to join the new Justice League. Searching for answers related to her new Nth Metal wings, Hawkgirl went on a mission to Thanagar Prime with Martian Manhunter and
John Stewart John Stewart may refer to: Business * John Aikman Stewart (1822–1926), American banker * John Killough Stewart (1867–1938), businessman and philanthropist in Queensland, Australia * John K. Stewart (1870–1916), American entrepreneur and inve ...
. There Kendra encountered Shayera Hol, the Silver Age Hawkgirl. Shayera is shown as the Empress of Thanagar and very protective of the planet's secrets. Kendra reveals that Shayera is indeed her previous life and Starman says that the two are existing at the same time is because of Perpetua and the Totality breaking the chain of resurrection and splitting the two. As such, Kendra and Shayera are two completely separate people . Later, Kendra would come to learn that she had a pivotal role in healing the
Source Wall This page list the locations in the DC Universe, the shared universe setting of DC Comics. Sites * the Arrowcave – The former base of operations of the Green Arrow and Speedy. * Avernus Cemetery – A burial ground located in Central City for ...
that was previously destroyed in the Dark Nights: Metal event. Her Nth Metal wings were entrusted with the power to restore the Source Wall's integrity. After discovering this, Kendra tried to save the universe by sacrificing herself to the Source Wall, but her plan was thwarted by
Brainiac Brainiac is a colloquial adjective used to describe exceptionally intelligent people. It may also refer to: Culture Fictional entities * Brainiac (character), a fictional supervillain in DC Comics, and an enemy of Superman * Brainiac (story arc), ...
. Hawkgirl is a member of the relaunched Justice League bi-weekly series, written by Scott Snyder. Hawkgirl was a member of the Justice League roster during the events of Death Metal. Kendra, and the rest of the team, were assigned to rescue the Legion of Doom from Perpetua's grasp. Hawkgirl is also shown as a member of the Guild of Detectives, a group featuring the greatest detectives of Earth.


''Infinite Frontier''

After the conclusion of '' Dark Nights: Death Metal'', Hawkgirl is once again core member of the new Justice League series, written by
Brian Michael Bendis Brian Michael Bendis (; born August 18, 1967) is an American comic book writer and artist. He has won five Eisner Awards for both his creator-owned work and his work on various Marvel Comics books.Bendis, Brian Michael and Oeming, Michael Avon, ' ...
.


Powers and abilities


Other versions


''DC Super Hero Girls''

Within the
DC Super Hero Girls ''DC Super Hero Girls'' or ''DC Superhero Girls'' (in various countries) is an American superhero web series and franchise Produced by Warner Bros. Animation for Cartoon Network based on characters from DC Entertainment that launched in the thi ...
comics adaptation, Hawkgirl is depicted as a student at Super Hero High, being a Latina superheroine. During the issue ''Hits and Myths'', Kendra alongside Flash,
Batgirl Batgirl is the name of several superheroines appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics, depicted as female counterparts and allies to the superhero Batman. Although the character Betty Kane was introduced into publication in ...
and Bumblebee forms a team to help Batgirl locating her missing Batplane. They track the Batplane up until a street bar. There they fight against
Black Canary The Black Canary is the name of two superheroines appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics: Dinah Drake and her daughter Dinah Laurel Lance. The original version was created by the writer-artist team of Robert Kanigher and ...
,
Silver Banshee Silver Banshee is a supervillain appearing in comic books published by DC Comics, primarily as an opponent of Superman. In television, she has been portrayed by Odessa Rae in ''Smallville (TV series), Smallville'' and Italia Ricci in the Arrowvers ...
and Jinx, during the fight Black Canary escapes with the Batplane, so Hawkgirl, Poison Ivy, Flash, Supergirl and Batgirl chases her to retrieve the batplane, after defeating Black Canary they successfully retrieve the batplane, to celebrate their victory they all go to Themyscira with Wonder Woman to have a slumber party.


Earth 2

In 2011, DC Comics rebooted its continuity as part of the publishing event '' The New 52''. Following this, a reimagined Kendra Saunders version of Hawkgirl features in the comic book '' Earth 2'', set in the parallel reality of that designation. Her full origin has not been revealed other than some insinuation of her background as part of a secret program that included Al Pratt. It is later revealed that Kendra Munoz-Saunders is a professional treasure hunter, and was hired by the World Army before an unrevealed event occurred in Egypt that resulted in the grafting of wings to Kendra's back, the same time Khalid Ben-Hassin found the Helmet of Fate. Some time later, Kendra met with
the Flash The Flash (or simply Flash) is the name of several superheroes appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by writer Gardner Fox and artist Harry Lampert, the original Flash first appeared in ''Flash Comics'' #1 (cover date ...
in Europe. She was guided by a certain Fate as to where she might find him. Together, they went to Washington, D.C. and fought Solomon Grundy, without much success. They were later joined by Green Lantern, and subsequently by the Atom. To defeat Grundy, Green Lantern carried him out of the Earth's atmosphere, and stranded him on the moon. Despite his help against Grundy, the Atom, under orders from the World Army, tried to capture Hawkgirl, but she escaped with the help of the Flash. Green Lantern then returned to Earth after removing the danger of the nuclear missiles that the World Army launched under the advice of Terry Sloan. Unfortunately, he had run out of power, after using so much of it to defeat Grundy. He was saved by Hawkgirl, who caught him in mid-free fall. Hawkgirl then visited the apartment of Alan Scott who was still mourning over the death of his partner Sam. Hawkgirl's detective skills allowed her to discover that Alan and Green Lantern were one and the same. She tried to convince him to join her and the Flash to form a team against the coming danger. Since then, Hawkgirl alongside
the Flash The Flash (or simply Flash) is the name of several superheroes appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by writer Gardner Fox and artist Harry Lampert, the original Flash first appeared in ''Flash Comics'' #1 (cover date ...
, Green Lantern and Doctor Fate formed the Wonders of the World. During the events of ''The Tower of Fate'' Hawkgirl is seen New Orleans trying to make Khalid join her in an attempt to fight against the war with
Apokolips Apokolips is a fictional planet that appears in American comic books published by DC Comics. The planet is ruled by Darkseid, established in Jack Kirby's Fourth World series, and is integral to many stories in the DC Universe. Apokolips is co ...
. Later, she is shown in Louisiana locating a parademon cell, Green Lantern appears and asks for her help with finding why his husband was murdered. Together with Kendra, Alan manages to learn much more about Sam, and within the span of a few hours the treasure huntress has completely outclassed all of the detectives earlier hired by Mr. Zhao. They are flying above the Chinese harbor when Kendra notes that they've reached the point where there was supposed to be a clue, as one of the containers contain something which is connected to Sam's death. Once they open the container however, Alan and Kendra discover to their shock numerous dead
Parademons Apokolips is a fictional planet that appears in American comic books published by DC Comics. The planet is ruled by Darkseid, established in Jack Kirby, Jack Kirby's Fourth World (comics), Fourth World series, and is integral to many stories in t ...
heaped atop one another. Surprised by their findings and wondering how this got Sam killed, they decide to backtrack to their previous source, the mob leader Eddie Kai. Unfortunately, before they can continue their search the Green reaches out to Alan and implores him to return to America. While Alan resists as much as he can, the force of the command proves too irresistible and he's forced to leave Kendra behind despite her protests, when he leaves however he begs Kendra to keep looking in his place. Still helping Alan with his problem, Hawkgirl is seen in a graveyard searching for answers, there she is attacked by genetically enhanced Apokorats ridden by Apokolips warriors,
Batman Batman is a superhero appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. The character was created by artist Bob Kane and writer Bill Finger, and debuted in Detective Comics 27, the 27th issue of the comic book ''Detective Comics'' on ...
assists her and tells her to go search for Kanto, the assassin of Apokolips. She finds out that Alan's dead husband, was mixed up with Apokolips battle tech. When the second invasion of Apokolips in Earth-2 happened, the Wonders of the World, tried to save Earth-2 from destruction, unsuccessfully, they had to evacuate to an Earth twin, only two million survived the war. In 2015, the follow-on series called ''Earth 2: Society'' showed the survivors of Earth-2's war with Apokolips, such as Hawkgirl, Green Lantern and The Flash, finding themselves on a new world having to create a fresh life there.


''Gotham City Garage''

Kendra Saunders's version of Hawkgirl is featured in the ''Gotham City Garage'' series. She is the youngest member of a very old team. It's revealed that Kendra's parents were killed during an alien invasion, she was later rescued by the Blackhawks and trained from a young age with captain Blackhawk. She is shown using the
Lady Blackhawk Lady Blackhawk is an alias used by three fictional comic book characters appearing in American comic books. The first, Zinda Blake, was introduced in a DC Comics publication in 1959 (''Blackhawk'' #133); the second, Natalie Reed, appeared in a DC ...
costume and the alias Kendra Blackhawk. She resigns from the Blackhawks in order to help the Gotham City Garage against Lex Luthor's attacks.


''DCeased''

Kendra Saunders's version of Hawkgirl is featured in the
DCeased ''DCeased'' is a six-issue comic book miniseries published by DC Comics from May to October 2019. It was created by writer Tom Taylor and the artistic team including penciler Trevor Hairsine and inker Stefano Guadiano. The story takes place in a ...
comic book series. In this alternative Earth where a zombie-like virus has infected most of the planet, Kendra is one of the remaining survivors. She informs the Justice League that Captain Atom is about to self-implode, giving Black Canary's green lantern ring just enough time to shield them from the blast. Hawkgirl is later able to evacuate from Earth alongside a few civilians and Justice League members. She is shown in the sequel ''DCeased: Dead Planet'', that is set five years after the original mini-series. The survivors make Earth-2 their new home, but after they receive a distress signal from Cyborg, Kendra, amidst other heroes, returns to Earth to respond to the signal.


In other media


Television

* Kendra Saunders / Hawkgirl appears in media set in the Arrowverse, portrayed by
Ciara Renée Ciara Renée Harper (born October 19, 1990) is an American actress and musician. She is best known for her roles on Broadway as The Witch in ''Big Fish,'' the Leading Player in ''Pippin'', and Elsa in '' Frozen.'' She played Esmeralda in ''The H ...
. Similarly to the Shiera Sanders Hall incarnation of Hawkgirl, this version of Saunders is the reincarnation of Egyptian priestess Chay-Ara, who was killed by
Hath-Set Hath-Set is a DC Comics supervillain created by Gardner Fox and Dennis Neville. The character is the archenemy of Hawkman and Hawkgirl. Publication history Hath-Set first appeared in ''Flash Comics'' #1 and was created by Gardner Fox and Denn ...
alongside her lover, Prince Khufu, and cast a spell to allow her and her lover to live forever through reincarnation. ** Saunders first appears as a recurring character in ''
The Flash The Flash (or simply Flash) is the name of several superheroes appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by writer Gardner Fox and artist Harry Lampert, the original Flash first appeared in ''Flash Comics'' #1 (cover date ...
'' television series. After arriving in
Central City In urban planning, a core city, principal city metropolitan core, or central city, is the largest or most important city or cities of a metropolitan area. A core city is surrounded by smaller satellite cities, towns, and suburbs. A central city i ...
and becoming a barista, she briefly dates Cisco Ramon. ** In the crossover event, "
Heroes Join Forces "Heroes Join Forces" is the second Arrowverse crossover event that features episodes of the television series ''The Flash'' and ''Arrow'' on The CW. The event began on December 1, 2015, with ''The Flash'' episode "Legends of Today" and concluded ...
", Saunders is hunted by Hath-Set, now the immortal Vandal Savage, and encounters Prince Khufu's reincarnation, Carter Hall / Hawkman. She also discovers her heritage, past life as Chay-Ara, and powers as Hawkgirl. Joining forces with Ramon, Hall, the Flash, the
Green Arrow Green Arrow is a superhero who appears in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by Mort Weisinger and designed by George Papp, he first appeared in ''More Fun Comics'' #73 in November 1941. His secret identity, real name is Olive ...
, and their allies, Saunders unlocks her powers and works with them to defeat Savage. Despite learning of her destiny with Carter, Kendra remains affectionate with Ramon. ** Saunders also appears in the '' Legends of Tomorrow'' television series, in which she and Hall join the Legends to defeat a future version of Savage. Along the way, the team discovers that only Saunders can kill Savage by using the dagger she held as Chay-Ara when she originally died. Over the course of the series, she loses Hall, but develops a new relationship with
Ray Palmer Ray Palmer may refer to: * Raymond A. Palmer, science-fiction writer and editor * Raymond F. Palmer, medical professor * Ray Palmer (pastor), American pastor and author of hymns * Ray Palmer (Arrowverse), a TV show character based on his comic boo ...
, which becomes complicated when they are temporarily stranded in the 1950s and pose as a married couple despite the tensions of an inter-racial couple in that era as well as the complexities of her "relationship" with Carter. After reuniting with one of Hall's reincarnations, she successfully kills Savage before she and Hall leave the Legends to be together. * Kendra Saunders appeared in the short film ''Cooped Up'', portrayed again by Ciara Renée.


Film

* Kendra Saunders makes a non-speaking cameo appearance in '' The Lego Batman Movie''. * Kendra Saunders / Hawkgirl appears in '' DC Super Hero Girls: Hero of the Year'', voiced again by Nika Futterman. * Kendra Saunders / Hawkgirl appears in '' DC Super Hero Girls: Intergalactic Games''. * Kendra Saunders / Hawkgirl makes a cameo appearance in '' Lego DC Super Hero Girls: Brain Drain''. * Kendra Saunders / Hawkgirl appears in '' DC Super Hero Girls: Legends of Atlantis'', voiced again by Nika Futterman.


Video games

* Kendra Saunders / Hawkgirl appears as an unlockable playable character in '' Justice League Heroes'', voiced by Collette Whittaker. This version possess
Black Canary The Black Canary is the name of two superheroines appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics: Dinah Drake and her daughter Dinah Laurel Lance. The original version was created by the writer-artist team of Robert Kanigher and ...
's supersonic scream. * Kendra Saunders / Hawkgirl appears in
DC Universe Online ''DC Universe Online'' (''DCUO'') is a free-to-play action combat massively multiplayer online game set in the fictional universe of DC Comics. Developed by Dimensional Ink Games and co-published by Daybreak Game Company and WB Games, the game w ...
's "Dark Nights: Metal Pt. II" DLC. She fights the Dark Multiverse's invasion on Thanagar and Earth before
The Batman Who Laughs The Batman Who Laughs (Bruce Wayne) is a supervillain appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. He is the evil counterpart and alternate version of Batman within the Dark Multiverse. He is depicted as a hybrid of both Batman ( ...
turns her into Lady Blackhawk, which leads to the player rescuing her. * Kendra Saunders / Hawkgirl appears as a playable character in '' Infinite Crisis'', voiced by Maria Canals-Barrera.


Miscellaneous

Kendra Saunders / Hawkgirl appears in ''
DC Super Hero Girls ''DC Super Hero Girls'' or ''DC Superhero Girls'' (in various countries) is an American superhero web series and franchise Produced by Warner Bros. Animation for Cartoon Network based on characters from DC Entertainment that launched in the thi ...
'' and ''DC Super Hero High'', voiced by Nika Futterman. This version is Super Hero High's hall monitor, a member of the school's detective club, and wields an Nth Metal mace.


Collected editions


See also

* Hawkwoman


References


External links


Hawkman and Hawkgirl
on DC Comics.
Hawkgirl
on Wikia
Hawkgirl
on DC Comics {{Justice League characters Characters created by David S. Goyer Characters created by James Robinson Comics characters introduced in 1999 Comics spin-offs DC Comics American superheroes DC Comics fantasy characters DC Comics female superheroes DC Comics titles DC Comics characters with accelerated healing DC Comics characters with superhuman strength DC Comics extraterrestrial superheroes Egyptian mythology in comics Egyptian superheroes Fictional archaeologists Fictional characters with superhuman senses Fictional extraterrestrial princesses Fiction about reincarnation Wingmen of Thanagar Hawkgirl