Helen Slater, who starred as Supergirl in the 1984 film, has offered words of encouragement to Australian actor Milly Alcock as she faces online criticism ahead of her portrayal of the iconic superhero.

Slater says she hopes Alcock ignores the trolls and embraces the opportunity to reinterpret a character that has evolved over decades, describing myths such as Supergirl as stories that naturally support different versions across generations.

Alcock has attracted criticism over comments about Supergirl's sexuality and her view that the character is stronger than Superman, as well as unfair remarks about her appearance.

Slater understands the pressure that comes with the role, recalling that she was only 19 when she was cast in the original film and suddenly found herself at the centre of an international publicity campaign while living alone in London.She remembers the demanding stunt work, the physical training and the weight of carrying a major superhero production.

Although Supergirl featured an impressive cast including Faye Dunaway, Peter O'Toole and Mia Farrow, it was poorly received by critics and failed commercially, earning well below its production budget.Producer Ilya Salkind later admitted the film was not successful creatively, despite ambitious plans for a franchise.Slater says the disappointment did not derail her career, though naturally she would have preferred the film to succeed.

Looking back, she shares fond memories of working with Christopher Reeve and Peter O'Toole, praising O'Toole's generosity as a mentor on set.Over time, the 1984 film has developed a cult following, and Slater's version of Supergirl was acknowledged in later DC productions.

She welcomes Alcock's fresh interpretation and believes each generation should be free to redefine the character without being constrained by past expectations or online negativity.