James Gunn, co-head of DC Studios, has shared new insights into the upcoming Supergirl film in an extensive interview with Rolling Stone, shedding light on its story, character dynamics, and place within the expanding DC Universe (DCU). The film, scheduled for release on June 26, 2026, will star Milly Alcock as Kara Zor-El, marking her first solo feature within the newly rebooted franchise.
One topic addressed was Supergirl’s connection to Superman and whether her deeper ties to Krypton would influence their relationship. Gunn dismissed the assumption that Kara would inherently know more about Superman’s parents, explaining that cultural and personal differences on Krypton make such expectations unfounded. According to Gunn, “She is younger than him, so she would not know. She would not know anything about his parents.” This highlights the distinct viewpoint the character will offer in contrast to her famous cousin.
Gunn confirmed that Supergirl’s role in the upcoming Superman film was always meant to be limited, as his primary focus was developing her standalone narrative. Gunn emphasized his interest in adapting Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, the graphic novel by Tom King, highlighting how screenwriter Ana Nogueira immediately captured the story’s essence. Gunn noted that Alcock’s portrayal of Supergirl would be “even rougher” than her comic book counterpart, reflecting a hardened edge to the character.
Krypto, the iconic super-dog traditionally associated with Superman, will also feature prominently in the film. Gunn explained that his inspiration to pair Krypto with Supergirl stemmed from the Woman of Tomorrow storyline. While acknowledging that a previously considered scene showing Krypto being harmed was ultimately cut from Superman due to audience discomfort, Gunn hinted that Supergirl would take a grittier approach, fitting the protagonist’s tougher character. Gunn stated, “Supergirl is a way more rock and roll film. It is a little bit rougher in certain ways. She is a tougher character. She is not Superman at all.”
Regarding the visual cues in the DCU, Gunn touched on the mural seen in the Hall of Justice featured in Superman. While he confirmed that significant thought went into its design, he advised fans not to expect every character depicted to appear on screen immediately, though some are already in development across various projects.
Gunn also addressed reports about a fast-tracked Wonder Woman project, clarifying that while it has always been a priority, there is no rush to greenlight it prematurely. However, he confirmed that plans for Wonder Woman and Batman are being actively discussed as the studio shapes the foundation of its new shared universe. Gunn emphasized the importance of finding writers who can deliver compelling stories within a reasonable timeframe.
Supergirl is directed by Craig Gillespie, known for Cruella and I, Tonya, with a script by Ana Nogueira. The film will co-star Matthias Schoenaerts, Eve Ridley, David Krumholtz, and Emily Beecham. Set against the backdrop of a galactic revenge quest, the story will follow Kara Zor-El as she confronts new threats and personal demons, distinguishing her path from that of Superman.
Originally part of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) plans in 2018, a Supergirl film saw renewed development after James Gunn and Peter Safran took leadership of DC Studios in 2022. The character was first introduced in The Flash (2023), portrayed by Sasha Calle, though Gunn’s new vision repositions Alcock’s Supergirl within the DCU’s continuity.
Filming for Supergirl wrapped in May 2025, following production in England and Scotland. Although the subtitle Woman of Tomorrow was later dropped, the film remains a core part of DCU’s Chapter One: Gods and Monsters.
With Gunn promising a distinct and edgier take on the character, Supergirl is shaping up to be a pivotal chapter in the evolving DC Universe, poised to introduce audiences to a heroine whose story is as much about resilience and survival as it is about heroism.
