Ruby Rose has hit back at “hurtful” criticism of her casting as lesbian superhero Batwoman.

The former Orange is the New Black star announced on Tuesday that she is set to play the superhero in an upcoming TV series.

The live-action version of Batwoman will debut on existing CW superhero shows Arrow, Supergirl and The Flash, before kick-starting her own solo series.

The casting was met with an overwhelmingly warm reaction from queer fans, but apparently not everyone is on board with her casting.

Many on social media complained about the choice, listing other actors they would have liked to see in the part.

Taking to Twitter, Rose called out voices within the LGBT+ community who complained about her casting.

She wrote: “I wish we would all support each other and our journeys.

“When women and when minorities join forces we are unstoppable.. when we tear each other down it’s much more hurtful than from any group. But hey I love a challenge x”

She added: “I just wish women and the LGBT community supported each other more. (…) My wish was we were all a little kinder and more supportive of each other.”

The star added: “Sending everyone my love and gratitude, it’s been a rollercoaster of a year, this month especially.

“I am looking forward to getting more than 4 hours of sleep and to break from Twitter to focus all my energy on my next 2 projects.

“If you need me, I’ll be on my Bat Phone. ”

In a previous statement she said: “The Bat is out of the bag and I am beyond thrilled and honoured. I’m also an emotional wreck because this is a childhood dream.

“This is something I would have died to have seen on TV when I was a young member of the LGBT community who never felt represented on TV and felt alone and different.

“Thank you everyone. Thank you god.”

The version of Batwoman headed to TV screens is set to remain true to her comics portrayal, where Batwoman has been an out lesbian since 2006.

Prolific producer Greg Berlanti – who has overseen numerous CW shows, as well as hit film Love, Simon – will executive produce the new show.

The CW superhero universe is growing significantly, with trans actress Nicole Maines set to play TV’s first transgender superhero on CW show Supergirl.

Animated series The Ray also featured a gay lead.

The diversity within the CW universe stands in stark contrast with the total lack of LGBT characters in blockbuster superhero films.