Both as himself and The Flash, Grant Gustin has no patience for online trolls.
After images of the more comic book-accurate costume for the upcoming Season 5 of The Flash leaked online, the redesigned outfit received backlash from body shamers complaining the actor appeared too skinny to play the superhero. In response, Gustin posted on his Instagram calling out the trolls for the double standard to criticize a male body while reassuring fans that the new suit will look great in action. Gustin’s full post is below:
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It was previously unclear if the leaked redesign were legitimate but Gustin’s response indicates the Scarlet Speedster will indeed see a more comic-accurate uniform in the fifth season. Details from the upcoming season are still being kept under wraps but the eponymous hero is expected to team up with his time-traveling daughter Nora to take on the new villain Cicada portrayed by American Pie star Chris Klein.
The Flash, unfortunately, is the latest comic book adaptation to fall prey to online harassers with DC Universe’s Titans and The CW’s Legends of Tomorrow both having to deal with body shamers earlier this year. In both cases, cast members were quick to firmly shut down the toxic “fans” without letting the criticism affect their performances.
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In the meantime, now with a sleek new uniform and his iconic ring, Central City’s greatest hero will be back in action looking better than ever. Run, Barry, run.
Returning on Tuesday, October 9, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on The CW, The Flash stars Grant Gustin, Candice Patton, Carlos Valdes, Danielle Panabaker, Tom Cavanaugh, Jesse L. Martin, Danielle Nicolet, Hartley Sawyer, and Jessica Parker Kennedy.
