There have been some truly amazing actresses to suit up as Supergirl over the years, but who has delivered the greatest performance as Kara Zor-El?
Supergirl, also known as Kara Zor-El, has had a lasting impact on both the big and small screen. She was first introduced in 1959 in DC Comics and made her live-action debut in the 1984 film Supergirl, played by Helen Slater. Since then, she has been portrayed by various actresses in different mediums, including Melissa Benoist in the hit CW series.
Supergirl’s legacy lies in her representation of female empowerment and resilience. She is a symbol of hope, courage, and strength for young girls and women everywhere. Through her various iterations, Supergirl has proven that women can be just as capable and heroic as their male counterparts. Her influence has inspired many female superheroes that followed in her footsteps, including Batgirl, Wonder Woman, and Captain Marvel.
Supergirl has also been a role model for young people, promoting values of courage, kindness, and justice. Her stories have tackled important social issues such as discrimination and inequality, and her unwavering determination to fight for what is right has made her a symbol of hope for many.
Beyond her impact on popular culture, the character has also made a difference in the real world through appearances in various campaigns to promote social and political causes, including women’s rights and environmental activism.
Supergirl has had a tremendous impact on society, inspiring generations of fans to be their best selves and fight for what is right. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to shape popular culture and inspire new generations of young people for years to come as will the performances from the many amazing actresses who have stepped into the role over the years and played Kara Zor-El on both the big and small screen.
In celebration of the character, let’s take this opportunity to reflect on all the actresses who have brought her to life over the years.
**Note: This particular ranking only includes the actresses who have played the character in live-action mediums.
7. Adrianne Palicki
Adrianne Palicki’s portrayal of Supergirl in Smallville deserves a mention when ranking the actresses who have played the iconic superhero, despite her character not being the real Kara Zor-El. Palicki’s interpretation of the character brought a refreshing and nuanced take on the familiar hero.
While her character technically ended up not being the real Supergirl, Palicki’s performance left a lasting impression on the viewers. She brought a sense of vulnerability and authenticity to her portrayal, making her character more relatable and compelling.
Her turn as Kara in Smallville was a breakout role for Palicki, showcasing her acting skills and setting her on a path to success in the industry. While her time on the show may have been short-lived and she wasn’t technically the real Kara, her impact on the portrayal of the character is undeniable and deserves recognition when considering the actresses who have played Supergirl.