Melissa Benoist, the star of CBS'new DC Comics superhero show Supergirl (that premiered last night),has been making the talk show rounds this week to promote it.Benoist, 27, appeared on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, who asked her if she was "ready to live her life in a walking, talking Comic-Con everywhere she goes."
The actress gamely responded that although she was "overwhelmed" at first, but the universally positive response to the character/concept has made her confident in taking on the famous role.
Quick primer on the plot: Benoist plays Kara Danvers (aka Kara Zor-El, the Kryptonian cousin of Superman/Kal-El/Clark Kent) who arrived on Earth at age 13, after escaping the doomed planet of Krypton. Kara has to balance using her superpowers for good, and a 9-5 job as an assistant to a media mogul (Calista Flockhart, naturally). The show has gotten great reviews, with critics lauding it for its female-driven centerpiece.
Colbert told Benoist he "teared up" thinking about the concept of Supergirl, and asked Benoist to comment on the feminist aspect of the role.
The actress gave a perfect response, saying, "I think it's great; I think what's feminist about it is that it's for everyone."
Colbert then showed off a photo Melissa posted to her Instagram, of her in full hero attire, posing with some cape-wearing girl scouts.
"You're already a role model," Colbert said.Indeed, Melissa has been demonstrating her super powers in real life this week.
When informed by CBS: The Morning Show that Jeb Bush had said "She looked really hot," and "I don't what channel (Supergirl) is on, but I'm looking forward to it," Benoist diplomatically responded to the woefully condescending remark with, "I'm glad he's excited to watch the show."
Slay on, SG.
Watch Supergirl Mondays at 8 pm on CBS.