The superhero fandom has been buzzing with excitement and debate as the DC Universe prepares to welcome a new Supergirl in Milly Alcock, who is set to don the iconic cape in the upcoming film Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow. As fans eagerly await her debut, comparisons between Alcock and her predecessor, Melissa Benoist, who portrayed Kara Zor-El in The CW’s Supergirl series from 2015 to 2021, have sparked lively discussions across social media platforms. While both actresses bring their unique flair to the role, fans have taken particular interest in comparing their physical appearances, with opinions ranging from nostalgic appreciation to enthusiastic anticipation for the new interpretation.
Melissa Benoist, who embodied Supergirl for six seasons, became a beloved figure in the Arrowverse, captivating audiences with her portrayal of Kara Danvers, the optimistic and resilient cousin of Superman. With her classic blonde hair, bright blue eyes, and athletic build, Benoist’s look aligned closely with the traditional comic book depiction of Supergirl. Her on-screen presence, often described as the “girl next door” with a heroic edge, resonated deeply with fans, particularly young women who saw her as a role model. Benoist’s Supergirl was not only a symbol of strength but also carried a warmth and relatability that made her a standout in the superhero genre. Her physical transformation for the role, including rigorous training to portray the Kryptonian’s superhuman abilities, further solidified her as the quintessential Supergirl for a generation.
Milly Alcock, known for her breakout role as young Rhaenyra Targaryen in House of the Dragon, brings a fresh perspective to the character. At 25, Alcock is slightly younger than Benoist was when she first took on the role, and her casting has generated significant excitement due to her proven ability to handle complex, emotionally charged roles. Physically, Alcock has a more petite frame, with delicate features and a youthful energy that some fans have noted contrasts with Benoist’s more athletic and statuesque appearance. Social media posts have highlighted Alcock’s expressive eyes and subtle intensity, qualities that align with the darker, more introspective tone promised for Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow. Director James Gunn has emphasized that this version of Supergirl, inspired by Tom King’s comic series, will explore a “hardcore” Kara Zor-El who endured a traumatic upbringing on a fragment of Krypton before arriving on Earth.
The comparisons between Benoist and Alcock often center on their distinct physical attributes and how these align with their respective portrayals. On platforms like X, fans have expressed varied sentiments. Some, like user @Patrick_neal07, argue that Benoist “truly owned the role” with her classic Supergirl look, while others, such as @BenjaminBlogs, are excited for Alcock’s take, noting that the two versions are “poised to be completely different.” The discussion isn’t just about aesthetics; it reflects the emotional investment fans have in the character. Benoist’s Supergirl was a beacon of hope in a network TV setting, while Alcock’s iteration is expected to delve into a grittier, cosmic narrative, which may influence how her appearance is perceived.
Interestingly, Benoist herself has addressed the casting with grace and enthusiasm, emphasizing the importance of diverse interpretations of Supergirl. In an interview with Screen Rant, she stated, “I think any and all takes on the character are valuable because of what she stands for. Supergirl as an entity is iconic for a reason and has been since the ’50s.” Her comments highlight the significance of the character beyond physical appearance, focusing on the values of strength, resilience, and hope that Supergirl embodies. Benoist’s support for Alcock, coupled with her refusal to offer prescriptive advice, underscores her belief that Alcock should have the freedom to craft her own version of the character.
The fan discourse also touches on the broader context of the DC Universe’s reboot under James Gunn and Peter Safran. Alcock’s casting, announced in January 2024, came before the confirmation of director Craig Gillespie, signaling strong confidence in her ability to carry the role. Her potential appearance in Gunn’s Superman film, set for release on July 11, 2025, before her solo outing in Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow on June 26, 2026, has only heightened anticipation. While some fans on X have remarked on Alcock’s “tiny” stature compared to Benoist’s more commanding presence, others argue that her smaller frame suits the narrative of a battle-hardened yet youthful Kara.
Ultimately, the comparisons between Melissa Benoist and Milly Alcock reflect the passion of Supergirl’s fanbase and the character’s enduring legacy. Both actresses, with their distinct looks and approaches, contribute to the evolving story of Kara Zor-El. As Alcock prepares to take flight in the DCU, fans are ready to embrace a new chapter, while cherishing the indelible mark left by Benoist’s iconic portrayal.
