Milly Alcock Brings a Rebellious Edge to DC’s New “Supergirl”
After making her debut as Kara Zor-El in David Corenswet’s “Superman,” Milly Alcock is stepping into the spotlight as the lead in DC’s upcoming film “Supergirl,” set to hit theaters on June 26, 2026. The Australian actress, best known for her role as young Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen in “House of the Dragon,” is redefining the iconic Kryptonian heroine with a grittier, more rebellious take.
A Darker Origin Story
Unlike Superman, who was raised by loving parents on Earth, Supergirl’s backstory is marked by tragedy. Writer-director James Gunn describes Alcock’s Kara as a “much more jaded character” who grew up on a fragment of Krypton and witnessed the horrific deaths of everyone around her. This traumatic past shapes her into a hero driven not by altruism, but by personal stakes—particularly her bond with her super dog, Krypto.
Rock ‘n’ Roll Attitude and a Blondie T-Shirt
Director Craig Gillespie envisioned a Supergirl who is headstrong, determined, and a bit ill-tempered. To capture this spirit, he drew inspiration from punk and rock aesthetics, even considering Debbie Harry’s anthem “Call Me” as a potential theme song. This influence is reflected in Kara’s wardrobe: she spends most of the film wearing a Blondie T-shirt instead of the traditional “S” costume.
“Blondie is a band whose aesthetic and punk attitude fit so naturally with Supergirl,” Gillespie said. Alcock also immersed herself in a playlist of rock ‘n’ roll misfits to embody the character, citing Australian punk band Amyl and the Sniffers, Fontaines DC, and Radiohead’s “In Rainbows” as key influences.
A Flawed and Chaotic Heroine
Based on Tom King’s comic series “Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow,” the film follows Kara as she is reluctantly drawn into an intergalactic feud after Krypto is shot with a poisonous arrow by the murderous bandit Krem (Matthias Schoenaerts). Her quest for the antidote forces her to traverse planets where she is powerless, relying on her wits rather than her strength.
Alcock describes Kara as “chaotic” and “extremely flawed,” a stark contrast to Superman’s moral clarity. “She understands that most of us live in a gray area,” Alcock explained. “Most situations are not black and white… But her moral compass and her heart are something that is completely relatable.”
A Hero’s Journey Rooted in Love for Her Dog
At the heart of the story is Kara’s devotion to Krypto, who symbolizes everything she has lost from Krypton. “He reminds her where she comes from, and anything that endangers him is unthinkable,” Alcock said. This emotional core makes her journey one that resonates with anyone who has ever loved a pet.
The film also features Jason Momoa as the alien bounty hunter Lobo, adding another layer of DC fan service to the adventure. With its blend of high-octane action, punk rock attitude, and emotional depth, “Supergirl” promises to be a fresh and compelling addition to the DC universe.
