DCU’s Superman and Supergirl: Key Differences Revealed

To begin with, Superman launches the DCU on July 11, 2025. Meanwhile, Supergirl arrives shortly after on June 26, 2026. Now, James Gunn is offering fans a deeper look into how these Kryptonian cousins differ. According to him, the key contrast between DCU’s Superman and Supergirl is simple: nurture versus trauma.

DCU’s Superman and Supergirl: Hope vs. Pain

“He had parents that loved him and an easygoing upbringing… it makes him the least dysfunctional of superheroes in so many ways.”
— James Gunn, via ComicBook

For example, David Corenswet’s Superman was raised by the Kents in Smallville, where he grew up with a strong sense of morality, love, and purpose. As a result, his grounded and emotionally secure childhood turns him into a beacon of hope — someone who, ultimately, believes deeply in the good of humanity.

In contrast, Milly Alcock’s Supergirl experienced a tragic past. Specifically, she witnessed Krypton’s destruction firsthand, and ultimately, she survived alone.

“She’s kind of a mess. She watched person after person after person dying in front of her.”
— James Gunn on Kara Zor-El’s trauma

Unlike Superman, Kara Zor-El is shaped by loss, devastation, and the constant need to survive. This emotional turmoil makes her more volatile, intense, and morally conflicted.

Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow Reimagines Kara

Directed by Craig Gillespie, Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow is already complete and is based on Tom King’s award-winning comic series. This version of Supergirl embarks on a cosmic revenge journey, exploring themes of justice, vengeance, and emotional complexity.

The film leans into Kara’s trauma, offering a darker, more introspective take than audiences have seen before. This clear tonal shift further separates DCU’s Superman and Supergirl, enriching the contrast between their character arcs.

Krypto: Connecting DCU’s Superman and Supergirl

Interestingly, both Superman and Supergirl may be connected by Krypto the Superdog, who is featured in both Superman and the Woman of Tomorrow comic. Krypto could become a shared thread that unites their otherwise distant emotional worlds — bridging hope and hurt with loyalty and heart.

Two Paths from the Same Planet

Let’s break down the emotional divide between these two Kryptonians:

Clark Kent

Raised on Earth in a loving home
Believes in people and peace
Represents Earth’s influence
Grounded, hopeful, and stable

Kara Zor-El

Witnessed Krypton’s fall and death
Struggles with grief and loss
Reflects Krypton’s legacy of pain
Raw, fierce, and unpredictable

While Superman will offer a bright and inspiring tone, in contrast, Supergirl brings a gritty, emotionally charged energy to the DCU. Eventually, their paths may cross; however, their journeys remain unique. Together, they add rich depth to the ever-expanding cinematic universe.

By clearly highlighting the emotional contrast between DCU’s Superman and Supergirl, James Gunn is laying the foundation for a universe filled with both complex characters and layered storytelling. As a result, when each character’s film unfolds, fans will witness two distinct sides of Kryptonian survival — one shaped by compassion, and the other by tragedy.

Together, their stories will redefine what it means to be a hero in the new DCU.