The DC Universe has done it again. If you haven’t seen Stargirl yet, you’ve got some catching up to do. The unlikely superhero made her jump from the pages of comic books to television screens in 2020. Viewers were impressed, and a little back story can help you understand why.
Inspiration
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The character of Stargirl was created by the series executive producer Geoff Johns. Stargirl, or Courtney Whitmore, made her premiere in the 1999 comic book Stars and S.T.R.I.P.E. The premise of a child hero accompanied by an adult sidekick was partially inspired by the 1941 Star Spangled Comics. Courtney’s personality and appearance were based on Johns’ sister who tragically passed away in 1996.
Plot
Courtney was a regular teenager until discovering the Cosmic Staff of former superhero Starman. She learns that her stepfather was previously Starman’s sidekick and that the staff and Cosmic Converter Belt will give her superhuman strength, speed, energy manipulation, and more. Courtney teams up with her stepdad, recruits other young heroes, and creates a new Justice Society of America. The villains of the Injustice Society of America rise up to counter them.
Cast
A cast can make or break a show. The casting of Stargirl does not disappoint. It is a fantastic mix of rising stars, like Yvette Monreal, Anjelika Washington, and Trae Romano, acting alongside some very familiar faces, like Amy Smart and Luke Wilson. Brec Bassinger, who is most known for her role on Nickelodeon’s Bella and the Bulldogs, fills the shoes (and Cosmic Converter Belt) of Stargirl perfectly.
Reviews
The reviews are overwhelmingly positive. Google reviews are coming in at 4.4 stars with an impressive 89% on Rotten Tomatoes. With an overload of superhero shows out there, many viewers were pleasantly surprised at how much they enjoyed Stargirl. The reviews praise a variety of aspects from the cast and visuals to the action sequences and storyline. Comic book fans will also be glad to hear that the show stays true to its comic book roots.
Outlook
The show has no signs of slowing down. The first season wrapped up in 2020, and the second began airing on August 10, 2021. Stargirl was even given an early renewal for its third season. Fans are speculating it will be released in the third quarter of 2022.
If you’re interested in watching, it’s time to get started before you fall further behind. Head on over to the CW to catch up.
