Helen Slater, the actress who soared to fame as the Girl of Steel, is captivating audiences once again, this time by proudly embracing her natural grey hair at the age of 62. Decades after becoming one of the 1980s' most recognisable pin-ups, the star recently shared a radiant video on Instagram, discussing mental wellness and showcasing her stunning silver locks, much to the delight of her fans.
From Supergirl Stardom to Screen Diversity
Helen Slater shot to superstardom at just 18 years old, playing Kara Zor-El, Superman's cousin, in the 1984 film Supergirl. Dazzling audiences in a skintight costume with flowing blonde hair, the role cemented her status as a definitive poster girl of the era. However, she dramatically changed her image just a year later, chopping off her signature blonde locks to play the rebellious Texas teen-turned-outlaw martyr in The Legend of Billie Jean, starring opposite Christian Slater.
Slater proved her versatility by seamlessly moving between genres. She displayed sharp comedic timing in Ruthless People alongside Bette Midler and later sizzled as Michael J. Fox's love interest in the 1987 hit The Secret of My Success. Throughout the 1990s, she built a remarkably diverse filmography, including roles in the time-loop thriller 12:01, the home invasion drama A House in the Hills, and the family film Lassie.
A Life Beyond the Silver Screen
Alongside her acting career, Slater has cultivated a profound academic and musical life. In her recent Instagram appearance, she highlighted her PhD in Mythological Studies with an emphasis in Depth Psychology. She has also released several albums of original music, beginning with One of These Days in 2003 and including children's albums and the concept work Selkie in 2019.
Reflecting on her life-changing Supergirl role in a past interview, Slater recalled, "I started crying. Like I just – my whole life changed. Like massive, massively changed." She has remained connected to the superhero world, later playing Eliza Danvers on The CW's Supergirl TV series and appearing in Smallville. A new film, Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow starring Milly Alcock, is now in development at Warner Bros.
Embracing a New Chapter with Grace
Now, the former blonde bombshell has gracefully transitioned, swapping her golden tresses for a striking shade of grey. Married to Robert Watzke since 1989, with whom she shares a daughter, Hannah, Slater's latest chapter focuses on authenticity and wellness. Her journey from a teenage icon to a scholar and artist embracing natural ageing continues to inspire fans who first adored her over four decades ago.
