Milly Alcock, celebrated for her breakout performance as Rhaenyra Targaryen in HBO’s House of the Dragon, is poised to take on a new iconic role: Supergirl in James Gunn and Peter Safran’s reimagined DC Universe (DCU). This casting announcement, made in January 2024, marks a significant shift for the character of Kara Zor-El, promising audiences a darker, more complex interpretation in the upcoming film Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow.
Alcock’s portrayal of the young Rhaenyra Targaryen garnered widespread critical acclaim, bringing her to the attention of James Gunn. Reports indicate that Gunn had been considering Alcock for the role of Supergirl even prior to her international recognition, drawn to her ability to convey a potent combination of strength, vulnerability, and emotional depth—qualities deemed essential for this nuanced portrayal of Kara.
This casting decision forms part of a broader strategy by Gunn and Safran to revitalize the DCU with fresh talent and narratives that redefine its established characters. With Alcock stepping into the role of Supergirl, audiences can anticipate a departure from more traditional depictions, embracing a character shaped by profound personal loss and resilient strength.
The film Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, adapted from Tom King’s critically acclaimed comic book series, offers a unique perspective on Kara Zor-El’s journey. Unlike previous iterations that focused primarily on her experiences on Earth, this narrative explores Kara’s life before her arrival. Having witnessed the destruction of Krypton firsthand, Kara grapples with the profound weight of survivor’s guilt, a defining experience that shapes her into a more cynical and hardened figure compared to her cousin, Superman.
The plot of Woman of Tomorrow follows Kara’s journey alongside a young alien girl seeking revenge, delving into themes of loss, redemption, and the harsh realities of survival in the vastness of space. This narrative is positioned as a cornerstone of the new DCU, establishing a distinct and compelling trajectory for Supergirl, separate from the more traditionally optimistic narratives associated with Superman.
Alcock’s Supergirl will make her debut appearance in Superman: Legacy (2025), effectively laying the groundwork for her solo film, Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, scheduled for release on June 26, 2026.
The announcement of Alcock’s casting was met with widespread enthusiasm from both fans and industry professionals. Many have praised her suitability for the role, citing her compelling performance in House of the Dragon as evidence of her ability to embody complex and multifaceted characters.
James Gunn himself has publicly expressed his confidence in Alcock’s portrayal, noting that her screen tests perfectly captured the “edge, grace & authenticity” he envisioned for this iteration of Supergirl. This endorsement from the DCU’s creative head further reinforces the belief that Alcock’s interpretation will resonate with audiences and align with the tone of King’s source material.
While her casting as Supergirl represents a significant milestone in her career, Alcock continues to pursue diverse projects. She has also been cast in Netflix’s upcoming limited series Sirens, where she will star alongside acclaimed actors Julianne Moore and Meghann Fahy. This additional role further demonstrates her versatility and reinforces her rising status as a prominent talent in the entertainment industry.
Filming for Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow is set to commence in January 2025, and anticipation continues to build. Alcock’s public appearances, such as her attendance at the US Open, have fueled speculation among fans, with some suggesting that her appearance hinted at elements of her character’s look.
Alcock’s casting exemplifies the DCU’s commitment to revitalizing its cinematic universe through bold storytelling and innovative casting choices. Alcock’s Supergirl is poised to become a defining portrayal of the character, ushering in a new era for both Supergirl and the broader DC franchise.
As the DCU embarks on this new chapter under the leadership of Gunn and Safran, Milly Alcock’s portrayal of Supergirl represents a pivotal moment. With a clear focus on gritty storytelling and character-driven narratives, Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow is positioned to captivate audiences and redefine the concept of a superhero in contemporary cinema.
For Alcock, this role transcends a simple career milestone; it presents an opportunity to leave a lasting impact on an iconic character, ensuring that Kara Zor-El’s story resonates with a new generation of viewers. As audiences eagerly await her debut as Supergirl, one thing remains clear: Milly Alcock’s interpretation promises to be a game-changer for the DC Universe.