Milly Alcock, known for her performances in House of the Dragon and Sirens, is preparing for her most significant role yet: Supergirl. The Warner Bros. film, set to release in June, marks Alcock’s entry into the superhero genre.

From Australia to Hollywood

Raised in Petersham, a suburb of Sydney, Australia, by a single mother, Alcock looked up to Australian acting icons like Cate Blanchett and Rose Byrne. She began proactively contacting talent agencies at age 13, driven by financial struggles and her mother’s unwavering belief in her potential. “My mother instilled this blind confidence within me: ‘If those idiots can do it, why can’t you?’ Her words, not mine,” Alcock laughs.

Early Career and Breakthrough Roles

Alcock secured a role in the Australian series Upright during her senior year of high school, prompting her to leave school with her mother’s full support. She found acting to be a space where she excelled, contrasting with her academic challenges. Following a cameo in Superman, Alcock now takes center stage as Kara Zor-El/Supergirl.

Embracing the Role of Supergirl

Alcock describes her Supergirl as a character grappling with immense responsibility and struggling with self-doubt. “She’s given this incredible responsibility and doesn’t know how to deal with it,” Alcock explains. “So she kind of suffocates herself and goes on a journey of self-discovery.” She emphasizes that the character’s journey is about self-preservation, stating, “She’s not trying to save the world—she’s just trying to save her own.”

Navigating Expectations and Fandom

Alcock acknowledges the scrutiny that comes with taking on such a well-known character. “I am aware that I am going to get comments,” she says. “But I can’t really stop them. I can only be myself.” She also deliberately avoided seeking advice from previous Supergirl actors, believing they are individuals living their own lives.

Future Projects and Artistic Vision

Despite initially resisting franchise projects, Alcock felt compelled to accept the role of Supergirl after a period of professional uncertainty. Her upcoming projects include the comedy Thumb, featuring Sofía Vergara and Kate McKinnon, and Hot Mother. Alcock expresses a desire to collaborate with emerging female talent, particularly praising Rachel Sennott’s work.

Alcock maintains a refreshingly candid presence on social media and prioritizes authenticity. She is currently based in London with her partner, chef Joseph “Jo” Powell, and a new kitten. “I’m not trying to brand myself,” she states. “I’m just a 25-year-old girl living in London.”