Fifty years after she first graced the pages of a comic book, Batwoman is to return to the world of superheroes – as a lesbian socialite.

After an absence of almost 30 years and following months of feverish speculation among fans of the genre, Batwoman will make an appearance in the July issue of a comic called 52, produced by the legendary publishers DC Comics.

Her real identity is Kathy Kane, described as a “lesbian socialite by night and a crime fighter by later in the night.” Kathy Kane was also the name of the original Batwoman’s alter ego, created in 1956.

The New York Times reported at the weekend that Batwoman would return to 52, a comic launched this month that features a number of superheroes, including Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman.

No one has seen the new Batwoman, although it is known that her past includes a romantic liaison with Renee Montoya, a lesbian former police detective who has also starred in the 52 comic.

Rock on!