The newest potential future superhero icon has recently been cast for the upcoming CBS television series Supergirl. Series creators Ali Adler (No Ordinary Family) and Greg Berlanti (Arrow, The Flash) have found the actress who best embodies their vision of Kara Zor-El in Melissa Benoist (Glee, Whiplash).
Benoist may be unfamiliar to many in the comic book realm, however that is the same position that her fellow Glee alum Grant Gustin was in before The Flash debuted. Now it’s hard to imagine any other actor delivering your pizza to you in thirty minutes or less. Supergirl is gearing up to debut next fall and this is how the series is described:
From Warner Bros. TV and Berlanti Prods., “Supergirl” is based on the characters from DC Comics and centers on Kara Zor-El (Benoist), who comes to earth after escaping the destruction of Krypton. After many years hiding her abilities, she joins the ranks of her cousin Superman to become the hero she was meant to be.
The Supergirl series may be a tough sell for hardcore comic fans and casual viewers alike, as the character and skill-set do seem largely derivative of the Man of Steel. Hopefully Adler and Berlanti have an unique approach to the character that has honestly never found her footing. At the same time, they have to make sure the series feels fresh and not retread ground that Smallville uncovered a decade ago. Berlanti has indicated that Supergirl will likely cross networks and team up with The Flash at some point as well, forming the beginnings of a small screen Justice League and expanding the larger DC television universe.
It is also unclear how CBS will support a show so heavy on fantasy and special effects. For years, the network has slanted towards older viewers, so this is a strategic move to attract a younger audience of both genders. However new superhero shows like The Flash, are only working because they are quality productions, not simply comics come to life. It is encouraging that Berlanti is overseeing this one also, because he has been a trailblazer for DC Comics properties over the past few years.
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Source: Deadline
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