DC Studios Addresses Supergirl's Below-Expectations Opening Weekend

Supergirl's theatrical launch has prompted DC Studios to address what turned out to be a softer-than-anticipated opening weekend.

The film, starring Milly Alcock, arrived in second place behind Toy Story 5 and pulled in $38 million from 3,600 North American theaters during its first three days, with a worldwide total reaching $68 million, according to Variety. Studio executives had privately targeted a domestic opening in the $50 million to $55 million range.

With a production budget of $170 million—not accounting for marketing expenses—the film faces a steep climb toward profitability. Industry standards dictate that theaters retain roughly half of box office revenue, meaning Supergirl would need to earn approximately $375 million overall just to break even.

Peter Safran, co-chair and co-CEO of DC Studios, offered the studio's first official response to the numbers. "While 'Supergirl' didn't meet our box office expectations, it's just one component of a broader, long-term strategy at DC Studios that we remain confident in," he told The New York Times.

The film follows Kara Zor-El, also known as Supergirl, as she reluctantly partners with an unexpected ally on an interstellar quest for vengeance and justice when a formidable new threat emerges.

Despite the opening weekend letdown, DC Studios maintains an ambitious slate ahead. The horror entry Clayface, helmed by director James Watkins, is slated for October 23. Superman's next chapter, Man of Tomorrow, directed by James Gunn, arrives July 9, 2027. Additionally, the Lanterns HBO series is expected to debut this year.