The ending of James Gunn’s new ‘Superman’ introduces a moment that, at first glance, feels lighthearted and joyful. Kara Zor-El, aka Supergirl, played by ‘House of the Dragon’ star Milly Alcock, arrives at the Fortress of Solitude to engage in a playful scene with Krypto the Superdog and her cousin Kal-El.
It’s charming, fun, and energetic. However, when you stop to think about it, her appearance isn’t just a breezy cameo; it’s loaded with tragedy. For those familiar with Supergirl’s backstory, this entrance becomes a whole lot heavier.
How ‘Supergirl’s Debut Hides A Tragic Backstory Behind The Jokes
When Supergirl shows up in ‘Superman’s final scene, it’s framed as comic relief. She tosses playful insults at Kal-El, engages in banter with Krypto, and leaves just as suddenly as she arrives. The energy is dynamic, snappy, and even a little chaotic. It’s fitting for a character meant to be vibrant and full of life. However, underneath is a far darker truth. Unlike Kal-El, who was sent to Earth as an infant and grew up unaware of Krypton’s fate, Kara Zor-El lived through the destruction.
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She remembers Krypton. She remembers the people, the culture, and everything that was lost. That emotional burden is not something easily left behind, no matter how many planets she parties on. The fact that she seems to use space travel to seek out red sun planets, where she doesn’t have her superpowers and can actually get drunk, isn’t just quirky. It implies escapism. She’s trying to feel normal, even if only temporarily.
It also suggests she hasn’t yet come to terms with the immense responsibility that comes with having powers in a universe where few can relate. This recontextualizes her interaction with Krypto, too. It’s possibly one of the only times she can use her full strength without fear of hurting someone. This, paired with the fact that she leaves Krypto in Clark’s care, paints a bittersweet picture. She trusts him, yes, but she’s also distancing herself from things she loves.
‘Supergirl: Woman Of Tomorrow’ Source Material Hints At The Film Being A Deep Dive Into Kara’s Psyche
Milly Alcock’s Kara may have entered the DCU in a lighthearted moment. However, her next appearance is shaping up to be far darker. The ‘Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow’ comic book series that James Gunn has confirmed as the basis for her 2026 movie is a brutal, emotional deep dive into Kara’s psyche. The comic tells a story of grief and vengeance. It deals with her survivor’s guilt, the psychological toll of watching an entire world die.
In case you missed it: James Gunn Claims Supergirl Being “A Total Mess” In ‘Superman’ Was The Point
It also explored the loneliness of being powerful in a universe that doesn’t understand you. If the film leans into even half of what the comics explore, Supergirl’s cameo in ‘Superman’ is going to feel drastically different. James Gunn’s track record certainly suggests it will. His Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy is filled with humor, but also devastating character arcs. Rocket’s entire backstory is one long gut-punch with a few jokes and action scenes.
So it wouldn’t be surprising if Kara’s “fun” introduction is just a narrative setup for something far more emotional. We may even come to understand why Kara keeps her distance from Earth. The upcoming film could show us the truth behind her struggle to control her powers and the trauma of adapting to a new life while mourning the old. Moreover, her decision to leave Earth and Krypto and to stay in space starts making much more sense under that lens.
