Why Superman’s big ending cameo is actually perfect – despite the backlash

Superman spoilers follow.

James Gunn packs a multitude of superheroes into the film Superman, similar to how David Corenswet bulks up an impressive amount of muscle in his spandex suit. Notably, there’s an entire ‘Justice League’, and hints of Gotham City, where you can guess who often dwells.

Instead, Gunn saved the most exciting reveal for the finale by introducing Milly Alcock as Supergirl unexpectedly at the end.

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Following Superman’s heroic act, his cousin shows up at the Fortress of Solitude, much like in a typical post-credit scene. However, unlike other occasions where she might lend assistance, this time she’s not here to help Clark. Instead, it turns out that Clark didn’t need aid; Supergirl is merely there to retrieve her lost pet dog.

Krypto is ecstatically eager to meet his owner, showering her with affectionate dog licks as she giggles joyfully. Superman and his robot subtly hint that she might want to establish some limits, suggesting that her leniency could be the reason why this well-behaved pup sometimes shows a mischievous side when you reflect upon it.

Supergirl doesn’t mind, though. In truth, she’s quite intoxicated on purpose. The Powerful One desired a powerful buzz, so she sought out a realm fueled by a red sun instead of the usual yellow one, thus disabling her powers, including her Kryptonian immunity to substances like alcohol.

With Krypto by her side, Supergirl prepares to depart, likely headed for another assignment, as she exits she playfully calls out to a puzzled Superman, saying “See you later, pal!” in a casual tone.

Several sources imply that Kara refers to Supes in a confrontational manner as a “bitch,” but upon closer observation, it seems she was merely intoxicated, disheveled, and engaging in playful banter with her cousin.

Some viewers may find offense, but Superman certainly doesn’t. It appears that this scene’s tone has left many feeling uncomfortable, which is unfortunate since it sets up the ideal launch for DC’s fresh interpretation of Supergirl, taking into account the exciting developments we can expect in her standalone movie coming next year.

Leaving aside the matter of the pocket dimension, the upcoming DC movie featuring Superman primarily unfolds on Earth. However, this won’t be the norm as the 2021 miniseries it’s based on, “Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow,” takes Kara Zor-El on a space odyssey steeped in a cosmic tale of vengeance, set against a backdrop reminiscent of the Middle Ages. Accompanying her is her canine companion, Krypto.

In addition to its unique setting, Supergirl’s standalone series will distinguish itself by showcasing Kara as a character who transcends the comparison to a female Superman clone, ensuring viewers recognize her as an individual with depth and originality.

Gunn has already said as much in a press release, explaining that:

As a gamer, I might say: “In this game, unlike Superman who was sent to Earth and nurtured by caring parents, Supergirl in the story hails from a fragment of Krypton. She witnessed everyone around her meet a tragic end, making her a much more cynical character.

It’s understandable that such an experience would be deeply traumatic for anyone, given our newfound knowledge about some Kryptonians who weren’t always benevolent in their scientific endeavors. So, it’s no surprise that Kara is turning to alcohol to cope with the intense pain of losing not just her family but her entire world – a world she remembers vividly and which her cousin Superman can never truly understand.

Tom King and Bilquis Evely’s miniseries opens with Kara, inebriated while celebrating her 21st birthday outside of her home planet. Despite not having her powers, she manages to fend off a hostile alien in the bar where she’s drinking. However, unlike the alien threats she can handle, her inner turmoil or feelings of unease are harder for her to combat.

It’s undecided if that specific scene will appear in the movie, but considering how much Gunn’s Superman deviated from the original, it’s possible that things could change. However, Kara’s use of a red sun to weaken herself, as hinted in her cameo in Superman, does indicate a darker narrative for the character commonly known as the Woman of Tomorrow.

Since the first appearance was a hit with its unexpected solo performance that aptly portrayed the complex Super-family dynamic, it’s evident that humor was not the only element at play. Beneath the laughter lies Kara’s distress – she’s far from alright. While it may be uncomfortable to witness, this struggle is what makes her stand out as a unique, flawed hero in the world of Supergirl.

As a gamer immersed in the universe teeming with extraordinary characters, hailing from Krypton or elsewhere, it’s comforting to know that Kara’s journey won’t simply mirror Superman’s path – and it seems they’re sticking close to the comic book roots for an authentic experience.

It’s undeniable that the Eisner Award-nominated series stands as one of the greatest Supergirl runs ever, making it evident that those criticizing “Woman of Tomorrow” due to Kara’s demeanor in her brief appearance in “Superman” may need to delve deeper into their reading.

It’s important to remember that Iron Man’s struggle with alcohol addiction was a crucial part of his character, and it wasn’t something people took issue with. If you’re going to express frustration, vent it at Peacemaker for mocking Superman in the other major cameo appearance. He even goes as far as suggesting that Superman has an unusual fascination with feces in his own “Peacemaker” series.

Superman is out now in cinemas. Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow is set for release on June 26, 2026.

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2025-07-12 09:50

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