Cress Williams will play Black Lightning, CW’s next DCTV hero. Now, the network has cast Jefferson Pierce’s two daughters, superheroes known as Thunder and Lightning in the comics.
China Anne McClain (House of Payne) plays Jennifer Pierce, aka Lightning. She’s described as 16 years old and a feminist who is outspoken, independent, smart and athletic. In the comics, Lightning was eventually recruited as a member of the Justice Society of America. She possesses electromagnetic powers just like her dad.
Nafessa Williams (Code Black) plays Anissa Pierce, aka Thunder. At 22 years old, Anissa attends medical school while teaching at her father’s high school part-time. She’s described as sharp and passionate, and looks up to her father a great deal. In the comics, Thunder followed in the footsteps of her dad as a member of The Outsiders.She has the power to increase her body density, which gives her the ability to create shockwaves and have impenetrable skin.
It’s unclear if we’ll see Black Lightning’s daughters suit up in the series, or if it will focus more on Pierce’s journey back to the streets. Though, Pierce as a middle-aged man instead of a young adult does allow the opportunity to develop his younger daughters’ heroic stories in more detail.
To read the full casting breakdown, follow this link.
