Sasha Calle on Being Supergirl: “Wow, I wish I would have had this when I was little”

The First Latina Supergirl

In the newest edition to the DC extended universe The Flash, for the first time there will be a Latina Supergirl. Who’s playing this position? Colombian-American actor Sasha Calle (27), is hitting the limelight as Supergirl. This a major win for Latin representation in Hollywood as Sasha had to beat more than 400 other actresses who auditioned for the Supergirl role. Hopefully, Sasha’s role as Supergirl does not end with just The Flash.

In September 2021, it was announced that there will be a Supergirl series on HBO Max. Luckily there seems to be a bright future for more Supergirl content. In an interview with V magazine, Sasha explained a memory where the director had her watching one of her scenes. “Wow, I wish I would have had this when I was little. It meant a lot to me. I turned into child Sasha watching this person. So it’s really important. And I’m really happy and really thankful to DC and Warner Bros. for doing this now. It’s so cool that we’re doing this, and, you know, it’s about time,” she told V magazine. Agreed, it is about time that we get more Latinos in superhero roles!

From @sashacalle on Instagram

Who is Supergirl?

Supergirl is a fictional superhero in comic books, television shows, and movies from the DC universe. She is typically portrayed as the cousin of Superman and shares similar powers and abilities. You heard that right, she’s a badass with the same powers as Superman. Supergirl’s alter ego is Kara Zor-El, a Kryptonian who was sent to Earth to protect her from the destruction of their home planet. Raised by the Danvers family, Kara learns to control her extraordinary powers and becomes a force for good. Supergirl possesses superhuman strength, speed, flight, and heat vision, among other abilities. She fights alongside other superheroes, defending Earth from various threats, including supervillains and alien invasions. Supergirl’s character has evolved over the years, reflecting the changing ideals of female empowerment and representation. She has become an important symbol of strength, courage, and resilience, inspiring audiences with her determination and heroism.

The Importance of a Latina Supergirl

Some might ask, “What’s the big deal with a Latina playing supergirl?” or some might criticize DC for not sticking to the source material and having the actress portraying Supergirl be white. Firstly, Superheroes have a massive impact on pop culture. Superheroes are often the first role models kids adopt because superheroes are so cool.

When minorities are depicted as superheroes, it sends a powerful message of inclusivity and representation. Secondly, when minority groups see superheroes who look like them overcoming obstacles and fighting for justice, it instills a sense of empowerment and inspiration. It shows that anyone, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, or other characteristics, can be a hero and make a positive difference in the world.

Lastly, it breaks stereotypes of minorities only making up secondary characters. By featuring minorities as superheroes with complex and diverse backgrounds, writers and creators challenge these stereotypes and provide more nuanced and accurate portrayals. Overall, having a Latina actress portray Supergirl, creates a culture of inclusivity, it empowers minority people and it breaks stereotypes. 

From @sashacalle on Instagram