A beloved DC origin story, dormant for over seven decades, is about to get a fresh, and perhaps controversial, reboot! The DC Universe is gearing up to revisit the beginnings of a character many fans might not even realize has been around for as long as he has. While the recent "Superman" film introduced us to Krypto, the super-powered canine companion, it was merely a glimpse into a much richer, and now re-emerging, history. Krypto, the dog with the perpetually perky ear, wasn't just a plot device to save Superman's life a few times; he was the unexpected catalyst for a whole new chapter. His owner, Kara Zor-El, better known as Supergirl, played by Milly Alcock, eventually reappeared after a cosmic detour. Now, with Supergirl taking center stage in the next DC installment, it appears we're rewinding the clock, not just by a few years, but by a significant chunk of Krypto's own timeline.
But here's where it gets interesting: The Super Bowl teaser for "Supergirl" offered a tantalizing peek, showing Kara amidst a group of Kryptonians in their signature white attire. A playful, mud-covered baby Krypto then bounded into the scene, prompting Kara to ask, "Who are you?" This moment, along with glimpses of Krypton's final days and some exhilarating fight sequences, has ignited a fervent fan discussion, with Baby Krypto emerging as the undeniable breakout star of the preview.
And this is the part most people miss: Krypto the Superdog's original comic book debut in Adventure Comics #210 in 1955 paints a slightly different picture of his origins. In the comics, Superboy stumbled upon Krypto as a stray possessing identical powers to his own. It was only after bestowing the moniker "Superdog" that Superboy uncovered Krypto's true backstory. The tale unfolds on Krypton, where, much like on Earth, early rocket technology was tested with animals. A scientist, facing the planet's imminent demise, used his infant son's pet puppy, Krypto, as a test subject for a rocket. A meteor strike sent this experimental craft hurtling through space, landing not only on Earth but specifically in Smallville. In a twist of fate that strains credulity, Superboy discovered the accompanying note was signed by his own father, Jor-El, revealing Krypto to be his long-lost childhood pet, a fact he never knew.
This particular origin narrative seems poised for a significant overhaul in the upcoming "Supergirl" film. However, don't anticipate this flashback to be a mere footnote. Baby Krypto has already been honored with his own character poster, suggesting his puppyhood will play a substantial role in the movie. (In a clever nod to brand synergy, Krypto also lent his name to the "Krypto Superhero Play" during the Puppy Bowl!) While Krypto may have caused a bit of chaos in "Superman," perhaps that was simply him in his more boisterous, less experienced phase. Paired with Supergirl, however, he appears to be the perfect partner for a chaotic good dynamic duo, a partnership we're sure to witness in full force when the movie arrives.
Supergirl is set to premiere in theaters on June 26, 2026.
What do you think about the DC Universe revisiting Krypto's origin story? Does this new take on his beginnings excite you, or do you prefer the classic comic book version? Share your thoughts below!
