5 ‘Supergirl’ actresses every DC fan needs to know about

For over four decades, the character of Supergirl has been portrayed by a range of actresses, each adding their own take to the “Woman of Tomorrow.”

Although Supergirl’s journey began in comic books back in 1959, fans had to wait more than two decades before seeing the character brought to the screen in 1984.

While the first Supergirl film didn’t grow into a multi-movie franchise like Christopher Reeve’s Superman films, the “Girl of Steel” found a lasting home on television through Smallville and her own six-season series.

Now, the Supergirl legacy continues with Milly Alcock, who first appeared as the character in a 2025 Superman cameo and now headlines her own movie, released on June 26.

With the new Supergirl film now arriving, it’s the perfect time to revisit the actresses who have taken on the role of the legendary Kryptonian hero.

Helen Slater (1984)

Supergirl’s live-action legacy began with Helen Slater, who introduced audiences to Kara Zor-El/Linda Lee, the heroine behind the iconic name.

The 1984 movie saw Supergirl face her first major on-screen threat in Selena, an evil sorceress played by Faye Dunaway.

While her Supergirl journey began and ended with the 1984 film, Helen remained part of the DC world, later appearing as Superman’s mother Lara-El in Smallville and Kara Danvers’ adoptive mother Eliza in Supergirl series.

Laura Vandervoort (2007-2011)

Laura Vandervoort made history as the first actress to bring Supergirl to life in a TV series.

As Kara/Supergirl, the Canadian actress appeared throughout three seasons of Smallvillethe hit series which centered on Clark Kent’s early life in his small town home.

Melissa Benoist (2015- 2021)

Melissa Benoist became the longest running live action Supergirlleading the titular series for all six seasons during its 2015–2021 run.

Sasha Calle (2023)

In 2023, Sasha Calle brought Supergirl to life in 2023, making her feature film debut as the Kryptonian hero in The Flash.

Milly Alcock (2026)

The latest chapter of Supergirl’s story began when Milly Alcock was introduced as Kara in the final moments of 2025’s Superman, starring David Corenswet as Superman.

The latest Supergirl released worldwide on June 26.