DC’s Stargirl has come to the CW. Stargirl features the popular teenage superhero, Courtney Whitmore, or Stargirl. Whether you’re a long-time fan of DC or a new fan, the CW’s adaptation has something for everyone. Here is what you need to know about the history of Stargirl.
Back to the 1940s
In 1941, DC introduced the Star-Spangled Kid. The Star-Spangled Kid and his sidekick Pat Dugan fought in World War II as a crime-fighting duo. Stargirl is a part of the golden age legacy. Her stepfather is none other than Pat Dugan and the name Stargirl was chosen to honor his legacy. The show uses the same origin story.
Introducing Stargirl
Courtney Whitmore is Stargirl. In the comics, she finds the Star-Spangled Kid’s uniform in the basement. As a rebellious teenager turned superhero, she dons the costume and becomes the modern-day Star-Spangled Kid. Despite his initial protests, her stepfather joins her with a robotic suit of armor. The two of them form the duo Stars and S.T.R.I.P.E.
At first, Stargirl doesn’t have any superhuman abilities. She’s a regular girl with a background in kickboxing and gymnastics. Her powers come straight from the uniform and a cosmic staff. She has enhanced strength, agility and speed. Also, she can fly and project shooting stars.
Beginnings With the CW
The CW show, led by executive producer, Geoff Johns, brings the comic book character to life. Stargirl’s journey to CW began in 1999 in her first comic introduction. She was a modern spin on a classic, 1940s character. Now, she’s the lead in a female-led superhero TV show that entire families can enjoy. The show features Stargirl with much of her backstory still intact. She is still the confident teenage superhero that works with her stepfather to fight evil.
Finding Success on the Small Screen
Superhero stories are timeless. This DC adaptation captures the heart of Stargirl. Under the costume and the powers, Courtney Whitmore is a normal high-school sophomore. She deals with the same struggles as everyone else. She’s the new kid, adjusting to life with a new stepfather. Despite her powers, she’s a regular teenager and it’s her relatability that makes her appealing to a family audience.
As one of the latest additions to the DC television franchise, Stargirl has a lot to offer. This isn’t a show just for fans of the DC comics. Whether you’re a long-time fan or someone who’s looking for a new show to get lost in, Stargirl has something for all audiences.
