Ruby Rose debuts as ‘Batwoman,’ Joaquin Phoenix’s ‘Joker’ role gets Oscar buzz and more of this week’s best in pop culture

For the first time, a superhero series will feature an openly gay hero played by an openly gay action star: Ruby Rose. Rose makes her debut on The CW series, “Batwoman.” She plays Kate Kane Bruce Wayne (aka Batman’s) cousin. Rose really gets into character doing her fair share of stunts. Joaquin Phoenix isn’t messing around, ok, maybe a little as the classic Batman villain Joker. Critics and fans are raving about Phoenix’s performance, with many saying it could be the one that finally gets him Oscar gold. “Joker” has already won top honors at the Venice and Toronto film festivals. While most have embraced the movie, there’s been speculation that “Joker” might inspire copycat crimes. Hillary Rodham Clinton and her daughter, Chelsea Clinton, team up to write a new book. “The Book of Gutsy Women: Favorite Stories of Courage and Resilience” includes stories about women who risked their reputations and, in some cases, their lives to make the world a better place. Check out the video above for “The It List,” Yahoo’s weekly look at the best in pop culture.