Original “Supergirl” Star Helen Slater Shares the Tips She Learned from Legends Faye Dunaway and Peter O’Toole (Exclusive)

**Helen Slater Reflects on Her Iconic Role as Supergirl in 1984 Film**

In a recent interview, actress Helen Slater reminisced about her groundbreaking role as Supergirl in the 1984 movie, marking her first foray into the world of film. At just 18 years old, Slater found herself sharing the screen with legendary actors Faye Dunaway and Peter O’Toole, an experience that proved both daunting and enlightening.

Filming for Supergirl took place in the UK, where Slater had the rare opportunity to learn from two Hollywood giants. It was a nervous yet exciting moment for the young actress, who initially felt intimidated but soon discovered that her co-stars were eager to help her navigate the complexities of acting. Dunaway, renowned for her impressive body of work, played the film’s villain, Selena, and played a pivotal role in easing Slater into her new surroundings.

In her discussions with PEOPLE, Slater described her experience working with Dunaway as a rite of passage. According to Slater, Dunaway emphasised the importance of being mindful of the camera’s perspective and positioning during filming. “Just take care. It is an image… Film is image,” Slater recounted, highlighting Dunaway’s keen understanding of how to present oneself on screen. This mentorship came at a crucial time in Slater’s burgeoning career, as she was still adapting to the film industry and what it entailed.

Peter O’Toole, who passed away in 2013, also left a lasting impression on Slater during their time together on set. He portrayed Zaltar, a mentor to the titular character in the film. O’Toole frequently took the time to refine Slater’s performance, offering valuable insights into acting techniques. In an intimate moment, O’Toole even encouraged her to recite scenes from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, a testament to his dedication to nurturing talent.

“His direction during that scene was a masterclass in Shakespeare,” Slater recalled fondly. She described how he showed her the subtleties of performance, illustrating that even a small adjustment, such as the way one holds a rose, could enhance the emotional depth of a scene. “It was such a transmission masterclass. I felt the poetry in a way I hadn’t felt before,” Slater expressed, cherishing the memories of their interactions.

Despite her youth and inexperience, Slater felt surprisingly at ease acting alongside such renowned figures. “When you’re young and innocent, you literally don’t know that you should be terrified,” she said, reflecting on her sense of naivety that allowed her to focus on her performance rather than succumb to fear. Slater’s openness to learning and exploring her craft allowed her to thrive in the high-pressure environment of Hollywood.

While Slater continues to cherish her time as Supergirl, her career has since taken on new dimensions. Apart from acting, she has pursued her passion for mythology, holding a PhD in mythological studies. Slater revealed that she enjoys collaborating with writers and actors to weave mythological themes into modern storytelling, offering insights from ancient narratives.

“There’s usually going to be a resource for that,” she remarked. “It’s my joy to do that kind of research,” highlighting her commitment to merging the past with contemporary screenwriting in ways that resonate with today’s audiences.

Since Slater’s portrayal, the character of Supergirl has evolved through various interpretations, with Melissa Benoist leading a recent series adaptation and Sasha Calle playing the character in the upcoming film, The Flash. The legacy of Supergirl continues, with new actress Milly Alcock now taking up the mantle in a recent iteration, reflecting the enduring popularity of the superhero narrative.

For those interested in reliving Slater’s original performance, the 1984 Supergirl film is currently available for streaming on HBO Max, allowing new generations to witness the emergence of an icon. The enduring impact of Slater’s debut role speaks volumes about her talent and the film’s significance in the landscape of superhero cinema.