Jennifer Holland, Mom to the Rescue Dog Who Inspired “Supergirl”’s Krypto, Shares How Fame Has Changed the Pup (Exclusive)

**Ozu the Rescue Dog Inspires Krypto in Upcoming Supergirl Film**

Jennifer Holland, known for her roles in various high-profile projects, has revealed an intriguing backstory behind the character of Krypto in the new Supergirl film. The actress, who is married to renowned director James Gunn, has been the proud owner of Ozu, a rescue dog whose antics inspired the design of Krypto in the forthcoming film, set for release on 26th June.

Gunn, who was in the midst of crafting the Superman script when he adopted Ozu, had quite the challenge with the energetic canine. Recalling the early days with Ozu, he remarked, “Ozu was such a terrible, uncontrollable dog — tearing up our entire house — I thought, ‘What if he had superpowers? We’d be screwed.’ And thus, the filmic Krypto was born.” The director incorporated elements of Ozu’s behaviour, even going so far as to capture footage of the dog to inform Krypto’s movements onscreen.

In an interview with PEOPLE magazine, Holland elaborated on Ozu’s surprising rise to fame following the release of Superman. Since then, the dog has seemingly developed quite the inflated ego. “It’s getting to his head a little bit,” she noted, sharing that Ozu now believes he deserves treats for any little thing he does. “He thinks he’s pretty special, and I guess he is,” she added with a hint of pride.

Although Krypto possesses superpowers that Ozu could only dream of, Holland sees parallels between her pet and the animated superhero, particularly when it comes to their distinctive ears. “He has one ear. It’s just one ear that sticks straight up,” she explained, highlighting a behavioural trait that the filmmakers decided to incorporate into Krypto’s character. Holland affectionately described Ozu’s ear as an “emotional meter” that gives away his feelings. “It’s just like he can’t hide his emotions because his ear betrays him,” she added.

As excitement builds for the release of Supergirl, Holland hopes that audiences will recognise Ozu’s contribution to Krypto and appreciate the movie as a whole. She expressed enthusiasm for the character of Kara Zor-El, portrayed by Milly Alcock, highlighting a more complicated moral compass compared to Superman. “I think she’s a really dynamic, interesting take on a superhero,” Holland remarked.

Dog lovers are in for a treat, as the bond between Supergirl and Krypto is set to be the emotional heart of the film. Holland believes that this relationship will resonate deeply with viewers, reinforcing the connection between humans and their canine companions.

At home, Ozu eagerly anticipates the film’s debut. He shares his space with Lola, a 16-year-old puggle who has been a stabilising presence for him. Holland fondly recalled how Ozu initially struggled to bond with humans but quickly grew attached to Lola. “When Ozu first came into the family, he did not like humans. He imprinted on Lola,” she shared, outlining their blossoming friendship.

In addition to companionship, Ozu’s food motivation has become a focal point in their training routine. Holland explained that she uses Milk-Bone treats as a reward system to strengthen their recall skills. “We always give them a treat, a Milk-Bone treat, when they get back into the house,” she stated, outlining a strategy that ensures Ozu’s safety should he ever escape.

As the countdown to the film begins, fans eagerly await the chance to see both Supergirl and Krypto on the big screen. Following Supergirl’s release, DC Studios and Warner Bros. are set to continue the superhero saga with the Superman sequel, Man of Tomorrow, scheduled for release on 9th July 2027.

With Ozu’s charm and the dynamic storytelling behind Supergirl, it seems viewers are in for a delightful cinematic experience that celebrates both the powerful connection between humans and their pets and the allure of superhero narratives.