'The Flash' season 3 release date rumored for Oct. 11 with new character; Laurel may return

The CW

"The Flash" season 2 ended with Barry Allen (Grant Gustin) going back in time to save his mother and ultimately alter the timeline. How this affects the present day has yet to be seen but according to a report from TV Line, Barry will now have to contend with a brand-new returning character who may be a friend or foe.

According to the report, this new returning character is said to be slightly older than Barry and also geekier. He is described to be intuitive and smart and despite being a newcomer he does not believe Barry's "good guy" facade, teasing that this character may find out about Barry's secrets. He is also said to have secrets of his own.

While casting for this role is still ongoing, a report from Den of Geek points out that it may be Ralph Dibny aka the Elongated Man, a DC superhero capable of stretching himself very similarly to Mr. Fantastic of Marvel Comics' "Fantastic Four" team. Ralph Dibny is also a detective and this may play into how he meets Barry.

Movie Pilot also points out that Barry's actions may also lead to the potential return of Laurel Lance (Katie Cassidy), who died in "Arrow" season 4. Her Earth-2 doppleganger, the villain known as Black Siren, did appear in "The Flash" season 2 and if Laurel does not come back to life thanks to the change in history Black Siren may appear as a guest.

In regards to the show's premiere, Den of Geek points out that the CW superhero shows tend to launch the week after the New York Comic-Con. This year's Comic-Con takes place from Oct. 6 to Oct. 9 which makes it likely for "The Flash" season 3 to premiere on Oct. 11. However, it is further stated that this is just speculation until the CW gives an official announcement.