The upcoming Supergirl film, set to hit theaters on June 26, 2026 is generating buzz not only for its action-packed plot but also for its exploration of the titular character’s identity. Star Milly Alcock has shared her thoughts on Kara Zor-El’s sexuality and the film’s unique approach to heroism, offering fans a glimpse into the character’s depth and complexity.
In a series of interviews, Alcock has hinted that Supergirl’s sexuality is fluid, suggesting that Kara Zor-El might be bisexual. This interpretation aligns with the character’s alien origins and her potential to transcend human norms. The film, directed by Craig Gillespie and produced by DC Studios and Warner Bros. Pictures promises to deliver a fresh take on the superhero genre, focusing on Kara’s journey rather than romantic entanglements.
Exploring Supergirl’s Sexuality and Identity
During a London fan event, Alcock told the Associated Press that she believes Kara Zor-El would ‘probably go both ways.’ This statement follows her earlier comments in Brazil where she noted that the character ‘doesn’t live inside the binary of what we think a woman should be.’ Alcock’s remarks come ahead of the film’s release during Pride Month adding a layer of significance to her character’s portrayal.
While the main DC Universe depicts Supergirl as heterosexual, alternate reality versions of the character have been part of the LGBTQ+ community. In DC’s Elseworlds imprint, Supergirl has been in sapphic romances with Wonder Woman and Eloisa Lane. These depictions highlight the character’s potential for queer representation, a theme that Alcock seems eager to explore in the upcoming film.
The Film’s Focus on Character Depth and Flawed Heroism
The Supergirl film is set to diverge from traditional superhero narratives by focusing on Kara Zor-El’s flaws and imperfections. Alcock has emphasized that the movie is ‘not centred around love at all,’ shifting the focus to Kara’s personal journey and growth. This approach contrasts with the inherent goodness of Superman as depicted in the 2026 film, and offers a more nuanced portrayal of a superhero.
In an interview with Beyond Noise Magazine Alcock expressed that she hopes young girls will walk away from the film knowing ‘it’s ok to be a bit bad, and messy.’ This sentiment reflects the film’s theme of embracing imperfection and challenges the idealistic worldview often associated with superheroes. Kara’s journey is expected to be more flawed and unpredictable, setting her apart from her cousin, Superman.
The Future of Supergirl in the DCU
The conclusion of the Supergirl film could quietly define not just Kara’s future but her place in the larger DCU. Based on teasers from director Craig Gillespie and James Gunn the film’s ‘surprising and empowering’ conclusion sounds like a turning point for Kara as a character. This version of Supergirl seems poised to fully embrace who she is, even if that means being ‘a bit bad, and messy,’ as Alcock put it.
Whether Kara joins her cousin, Hawkgirl and John Stewart’s Green Lantern in future films will be a major tell for what the future holds. Either way, her arc positions her as someone who doesn’t need to follow Superman’s blueprint to matter, fitting Gunn’s larger goal of building a diverse DCU.
